Lobbying and Advocacy:
A Public Policy of Open Government

To better serve the citizens of Pinellas County, the Board of County Commission hires lobbyists to assist them in gaining support for issues that effect the departments under the Board of County Commissioners. These departments include Health and Human Services, Public Works, Justice and Consumer Services, Animal Services, and Culture, Education and Leisure. The continuation of funding for beach renourishment, administered by the Department of Environmental Management, is one example of a county interest for which lobbyists have successfully advocated. The issues that are to be supported are approved by the Board of County Commissioners.

 

In addition those parties that receive compensation to encourage the passage, defeat or modification of any item pending before the Board of County Commission are required by County Ordinance to register and report their expenditures.

 

A Public Policy of Open Government
The Florida Constitution safeguards every Floridian’s right of access to government meetings and records. In Florida, disclosure is the standard, unless the Legislature allows an exemption. Every citizen has the right to obtain public records that are not exempted. Citizens and the media can easily request public records from Pinellas County government. The citizen is responsible for the cost of providing the documentation, which includes staff time, cost of copies and other costs that are associated with the request.

 

To read more about the Sunshine Law: Florida Government in the Sunshine

Lobbying & Advocacy- Open Government Resources:

• Pinellas County Federal Lobbying Database
• Pinellas County State Registered Lobbyists
• Pinellas County Code of Ordinances Article IX- Lobbyists
• 2010 Federal Legislative Program
• 2010 State Legislative Program
• Florida Association of Counties
• National Association of Counties

 

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