American Farmland Trust (AFT) New England is seeking a contract lobbyist to support the advancement of state level agriculture, farmland, climate, and conservation policy in the state of Connecticut (CT). AFT’s CT policy work is supported by the Working Lands Alliance (WLA) Steering Committee. WLA is a broad-based statewide coalition dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s farmland and promoting a prosperous food system for all of state’s residents. Our 2025 legislative priorities can be found as an attachment to this document.
Scope of Work
The consulting lobbyist must have strong relationships with state agencies including the CT Department of Agriculture, the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and the Office of the Governor. Additionally, the consultant lobbyist must have strong bi-partisan relationships with the legislature, including its leadership. The contract lobbyist will be expected to work under AFT’s direction, and to work collaboratively with the WLA Steering Committee to advance policy priorities that are set annually.
The contract lobbyist will be responsible for:
- Providing strategic political advice to advance farmland protection and access legislation during the 2025 legislative session.
- Assisting in scheduling important meetings with state agency officials, and members of the CT General Assembly. Attend such meetings with AFT/WLA representation when warranted.
- Consulting closely with and report regularly to the AFT New England Policy Manager and Associate.
- Identifying key General Assembly and state agency contacts that are needed to advance WLA ‘s legislative agenda. Assist in scheduling meetings with key contacts and attend such meetings with WLA representatives as warranted.
- Assisting with scheduling and coordinating a potential lobby day or legislative breakfast during the 2025 session, as directed by the WLA Steering Committee.
- Reviewing testimony, when applicable, to ensure political accuracy
- Participating in WLA monthly meetings, with a priority placed on meetings held during legislative session.
- Advising on WLA research and/or strategic planning agenda.
- Assisting with the WLA policy prioritization process and provide advice and assistance carrying out WLA’s annual policy priorities.
- Monthly reporting and other filings on AFT’s behalf with the CT State Office of Ethics.
Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
- Proven experience as a lobbyist in CT, with a strong understanding of the state’s legislative process and key stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of CT State Office of Ethics Lobbying Requirements including key deadlines, activity restrictions, etc.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Commitment to AFT’s mission and values including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals should include the following information:
- A detailed description of the proposed approach to fulfilling the scope of work.
- A proposed timeline for key activities and deliverables.
- A proposed budget, including hourly rates or fixed fees.
- A list of relevant experience and qualifications.
- References from past clients or employers.
- A list of current clientele.
Proposal Submission
Proposals should be submitted electronically to the AFT Senior New England Policy Manager, Chelsea Gazillo, at cgazillo@farmland.org by December 31, 2024
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Qualifications and experience of the proposed team.
- Proposed approach and methodology.
- Proposed budget.
- References and letters of recommendation.
Contract Term
The initial contract term will be Jan. 1, 2025- Dec. 31, 2025 with the possibility of renewal. The current budget for AFT’s Connecticut lobbyist up to $20,000.
Questions
For any questions or clarifications, please contact Chelsea Gazillo at cgazillo@farmland.org
Disclaimer
This RFP does not constitute a commitment by AFT to enter into a contract. AFT reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
