Township hires lobbyist for one year of service

By Dana Casadei

Approval was given to hire Public Affairs Associates (PAA) as a lobbyist agent for Bloomfield Township at the board of trustees meeting on Monday, March 10. 

Through this agreement, Bloomfield Township will pay $35,000 for one year of services from PAA to advocate on behalf of the township.

Supervisor Mike McCready noted that on average, most lobbyists in Lansing – where PAA is based – cost $5,000 per month, a considerable increase from what PAA proposed.

“I say we hire them and give it a shot… bring us back some wins,” McCready said.

Over their year with Bloomfield Township, the non-partisan consultants will work to assist in securing funds for projects and legislative support.

The group will be able to connect the township with people, resources and strategies at the state level to help with items such as the inland lake conrol issue Bloomfield Township is having, as well as Public Education Government (PEG) fees and the need for more fiber optic options for streaming services.

“I think it’s a great use of money. You need to spend some money to make some money,” said trustee Neal Barnett. “I’m very much in favor of it.”

Trustee Chris Kolinski echoed Barnett, and remarked that the township has some big projects coming down the line and a group like PAA should be able to help the township.

And, at any time during this year, if the board isn’t satisfied with the work PAA is doing, they have the right to cancel within 30 days.

PAA brings with them five decades of expertise and success in shaping public policy, and work extensively with state department directors and their staff to support changes and updates of current laws.

The group is known for working both sides of the aisle with the House and Senate, as well as with Governor Gretchen Whitmer, to gain support on requests.

PAA currently works with the Oakland County Commissioners Office in Lansing too.

Trustees voted 7-0 in approval of hiring PAA for one year.