Title
An Ordinance approving a Sole Source Agreement between the City of Lee’s Summit and Versa Governmental Strategies, LLC, for federal lobbying services in an amount not to exceed $50,000.00 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City. (LIRC 1/15/26)
Body
This ordinance approves an amendment to the agreement for lobbying services between the City of Lee's Summit and Versa Governmental Strategies, LLC to add lobbying services. That agreement currently provides for State of MIssouri lobbying at a monthly cost of $5,000.00. This amendment would extend the existing agreement to cover Federal lobbying activities. Currently, the City does not have a federal lobbyist. The existing contract and this amendment will expire at the end of November 2026. Staff would anticipate working with the Legislative and Intergovernmental Relations Council Committee in late summer or early fall to publish a new Request for Proposal for lobbying services to begin on December 1, 2026. Accordingly, this will be a trial period to assist the Council, LIRC and staff in determining whether or not a Federal lobbyist is cost effective. This amendment states that Federal lobbying services will be provided at an additional cost of $5,000.00 per month beginning February 1, 2026 and continuing through the end of the existing agreement as stated above. The price stated is all inclusive and fully includes costs for travel, lodging etc. while the lobbyists are in Washington, D.C.
Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of this ordinance.
Proposed motions:
First Motion: I move for second reading an Ordinance approving a Sole Source Agreement between the City of Lee’s Summit and Versa Governmental Strategies, LLC, for federal lobbying services in an amount not to exceed $50,000.00 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City
Second Motion: I move for adoption an Ordinance approving a Sole Source Agreement between the City of Lee’s Summit and Versa Governmental Strategies, LLC, for federal lobbying services in an amount not to exceed $50,000.00 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the same by and on behalf of the City
Presenter
Brian W. Head, City Attorney
Committee Recommendation
The Legislative Intergovernmental Relations Committee recommended approval by a vote of 3-0.