Actions taken by the United States Legislature and the Executive Branch significantly impact the City of Richland’s
ability to provide basic municipal services to its citizens. The City of Richland supports legislation that promotes the
Richland City Council’s Strategic Leadership Plan and 2024 Legislative Priorities and opposes legislation that would preempt authority or eliminate discretion that is traditionally and historically vested in local government.

The City seeks to work with the United States Legislature and the Executive Branch to strengthen partnerships
between federal and local government, and to advocate for legislation and funding that would enhance the quality of
life for the citizens of Richland.

To that end, a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process was conducted in accordance with the City’s purchasing policies to solicit a consultant for federal lobbying services. Three (3) responses were received. K&L Gates LLP was selected as the most qualified consultant to perform these services based on technical capabilities and cost of service.

Because K&L Gates LLP is first and foremost a law firm, the standard process for engaging with legal counsel through
execution of an engagement letter is being used to retain K&L Gates LLP for this federal lobbying work.

At the April 16, 2024 council meeting, the City Council passed RESOLUTION NO. 2024-57 agreeing to hire K&L Gates LLP to perform federal lobbying services on behalf of the City of Richland. 

K&L Gates LLP will invoice a flat rate $8,000 monthly, plus occasional incidental expenses, for
federal lobbying services. This item is budgeted at $100,000 in 2024, leaving a reserve of
approximately $20,000.