The Board of Davis County Commissioners held a special meeting Oct. 15 to discuss extending its contract with Bennett Group DC, the county’s legislative lobbying firm.
During the discussion, commissioners reviewed whether to continue the relationship, the length of a contract extension, and an increase in compensation. The current contract costs approximately $28,000 annually. Commissioners agreed that recent and anticipated changes in federal law limiting commission-based lobbying made a flat-fee structure more appropriate.
Commissioner Bob Stevenson advocated for a two-year extension, stating that securing experienced lobbyists at a predictable rate would protect the county from higher costs in future rebidding cycles. Chair Lorene Kamalu expressed satisfaction with the firm’s performance, noting its responsiveness and ability to work across multiple county departments.
Vice Chair John Crofts also spoke favorably of the firm’s work but initially suggested a one-year extension. Following discussion, the commissioners reached consensus on a two-year extension at $42,000 annually, or $3,500 per month—still significantly lower than amounts the county paid under prior lobbying arrangements.
The commission also discussed contract timing, agreeing that the expiration date should align with Utah’s legislative interim period, which lobbyists have emphasized is critical for policy and funding work. The proposed amendment would set the contract to run through June 30, 2027, ensuring full coverage of the interim ahead of the 2027 legislative session. County officials also agreed that a formal request for proposals should be issued by early 2027 before the contract expires.
County attorneys were directed to revise the contract amendment and forward it to Bennett Group DC for review, with the goal of final approval before the existing contract expires at the end of October.
The meeting adjourned at 10:20 a.m. All actions remain subject to final approval with adoption of the official minutes.