Read more: Local, State, Politics, Richland County, Lobbyist, Nelson Mullins, Ethics Commission
COLUMBIA -- Richland County Council has tentatively approved spending up to $60,000 in taxpayer funds to lobby federal and state officials. According to county spokesperson Stephany Snowden, council voted Tuesday to award a contract to Columbia law firm Nelson, Mullins, Riley & Scarborough.
The county had not previously employed any lobbyists to represent its interests, said Snowden.
More than 60 government entities across the state expended public funds on lobbyists in 2008, according to filings with the South Carolina Ethics Commission.
Governor Mark Sanford issued an executive order in 2003 banning cabinet agencies under his control from using public money on lobbyists. Several bills have also been introduced in the General Assembly seeking to extend that ban to all state agencies. None has passed.
Richland County claims having a lobbyist will give the county a stronger voice at the state and federal levels. A five-member team from various county departments as well as a city of Columbia staffer recommended the decision.
While council voted to authorize the expense Tuesday, it does not formally take effect until councilmembers approve the minutes at their next meeting, which is scheduled for November 17.
