Largo asks lobbyists for help in Tallahassee | largo

LARGO – Several years of effort to advance in Tallahassee have had limited results for the city of Largo.

State funding has been tight and the city’s legislative priorities haven’t moved much. In fact, Largo commissioners say government officials are trying more than ever to undermine local governance.

To change that, the city brings in political forces.

On November 16, commissioners voted for a $ 180,000 contract with Ballard Partners, a bipartisan lobbying firm for state and federal advocacy services.

The company will also help the city develop legislative agendas and keep officials regularly informed.

“I think this is a great opportunity for our city and this is a time to move Largo forward,” said Vice Mayor Michael Smith. “And I appreciate what that does. Some people think you can do it yourself, but sometimes you need help who are professionals in the field. “

In recent years the city has tried to gain momentum by lobbying staff and commissioners. However, this tactic has not received government funding recently.

For this year’s legislature, which begins January 11, the city is seeking government funding for a project to modernize the promenades in McGough Nature Park and to install toilets in Largo Central Park.

Commissioner Jamie Robinson, who said he visits Tallahassee up to 10 times during each session, said the funds are great but more important things are at stake.

“The (means) is not the end,” he said. “This is the goal to advance our policies and priorities in Tallahassee. We need a partner who can do that. “

Ana Cruz, managing partner of Ballard Partners, said her company is the right partner.

“Grants are a big part of what we do, but we’re also passionate advocates in many local and municipal cities and counties across the state of Florida,” said Cruz, daughter of State Representative Janet Cruz and partner with Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.

She will have her job for her, according to officials across the county who say the legislature has been dismantling house rules for years.

For example, the recently introduced Senate Act 280 would require counties and municipalities to prepare a business-impact statement before passing any local ordinance.

Commissioner Eric Gerard said others were also of concern.

“My greatest concern is what happens to our ability to serve our citizens,” he said. “With each of these new bills they pass, our ability to protect our citizens and move our city in the right direction is diminishing. And this year is a very, very important year with some laws up there. “

Cruz replied, “We are ready to get involved and support ourselves on your behalf.”

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