SUBJECT
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Approve the Agreement for Professional Services with Arrow Group Consulting, LLC for Lobbying and Governmental Consulting Services (Action)
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DESCRIPTION
At the July 29, 2026 PRWC Board of Directors meeting the Board discussed issues related to future grant funding from the FDEP and Florida Legislature for PRWC alternative water supply projects. The Board’s focus was largely on funding for member receiving facilities to accept water from the PRWC Southeast Lower Floridan Aquifer Wellfield and Transmission Main project. Staff noted that no funds were received from the legislature in FY2026 for any projects associated with the PRWC and that the PRWC has not, to date, ever retained a lobbyist to represent its interests in Tallahassee. The Board then advised staff to review options and bring a recommendation back to the BOD for the September Board of Directors meeting.
The PRWC looked at several different firms that provide lobbying assistance and ultimately recommend hiring Arrow Group Consulting with primary responsibility to be assumed by Kimberly Shugar, Edgar Fernandez, and Alexandria Kernan. The Arrow Group has familiarity working on specific PRWC issues in the past (as Anfield Consulting) while under contract with Polk County. The firm is highly recommended by County staff.
Therefore, staff are presenting for the Board’s consideration an Agreement for lobbying and government consulting services by Arrow Group Consulting. Under this agreement, Arrow will represent the PRWC before the government agencies of the Florida Executive and Legislative branches focused on advancing the PRWC and its members’ interests in securing funding for alternative water supply facilities and water conservation.
The Arrow Group will charge the PRWC a monthly rate of $5,000 ($60,000 annually). The term of the agreement is for one year and can be extended by agreement of both parties. Either party may terminate the agreement by providing a 60-day notice.
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the Agreement for Professional Services with Arrow Group Consulting, LLC for lobbying and government consulting services.
FISCAL IMPACT
The financial impact to the PRWC for FY2027 will $60,000. These funds are reflected in the proposed FY2027 Administrative Budget.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Eric DeHaven