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TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: Nicholas Richard-Thompson, Deputy Chief of Staff
DATE: December 2nd, 2025
SUBJECT:
Requesting approval for a Professional Services Contract with Stratagem Consulting Group, LLC for State and Federal Legislative and Lobbying Services.
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this request is to secure dedicated, professional representation at the State and Federal levels to effectively advocate for the City's legislative, budgetary, and policy priorities. The City of Aurora has significant interests in areas like infrastructure funding, legislative authority, and grant acquisition that require active engagement with the General Assembly, state and federal agencies, and the U.S. Congress. Stratagem Consulting Group, LLC will serve as the City's "eyes and ears" to provide strategic intelligence, identify short- and long-term funding trends, and secure opportunities that directly benefit the city's operational budget and capital projects.
BACKGROUND:
The City requires a professional lobbying and legislative consulting firm to effectively navigate the complex political and regulatory landscape in Springfield and Washington D.C. Stratagem Consulting Group, LLC was selected through a competitive evaluation process based on their experience, established relationships, and strategic plan.
DISCUSSION:
These services are a reduction in costs while maintaining excellent and responsive services. Stratagem Consulting Group manages identification and acquisition of external funding and grants (federal and state) that reduce the burden on local property taxpayers for major City initiatives. The firm will also ensure state and federal legislation does not negatively impact the City's ability to govern or manage its finances. The firm will also support in pursuing the City of Aurora's Legislative agenda.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
The cost for the Professional Services Contract with Stratagem Consulting Group LLC is $10,000.00 per month, resulting in a total annual ...
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