Cedar Rapids renews contract with D.C. lobbying firm

The idea of ending special Congressional funding for local projects – called earmarks – seems to be getting some political traction in Washington, D.C., following the election this month that turned the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives from Democratic to Republican.

Nonetheless, one thing hasn't changed at Cedar Rapids City Hall: The City Council's need for the services of a federal lobbying firm.

The council has extended its current three-month contract with Williams & Jensen, a Washington, D.C., lobbying firm, for another five months.

The $7,000-a-month contract now will continue from Dec. 1 through April 30.

According to a City Hall memorandum, the lobbying contract helps “coordinate outreach” to Iowa's delegation in Congress and other members and their staffs in Congress; increases awareness of the need for flood-protection programs; provides advice on the federal appropriations and legislative process; and identifies new opportunities for federal funding.