Island Transit - State Legislative Consultant

The Island County Public Transportation Benefit Area Corporation, known as Island Transit, is seeking a qualified state legislative consultant to provide lobbying and advocacy services. The selected firm will represent the agency before the Washington State Legislature, the executive branch, and related state agencies to protect public transportation services, secure funding, and manage regulatory developments. This professional services engagement covers the 2027, 2028, and 2029 legislative sessions, with active service periods typically running from October through April each year. The contract includes an option for one additional year upon mutual consent, with an initial term ending in April 2029. The consultant will be responsible for developing an annual legislative agenda, securing sponsorship for legislation, and maintaining relationships with the Governor's Office, the Lieutenant Governor's Office, and partner organizations such as the Washington State Transit Association and the American Public Transportation Association. Key requirements include mandatory registration with the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission and strict adherence to state ethics laws and the Code of Ethics for Municipal Officers. The consultant must also maintain specific insurance coverages, including one million dollars in combined single limit for auto liability, two million dollars in aggregate for commercial general liability, and one million dollars for professional liability. Island Transit utilizes a qualifications-based selection process, evaluating proposers on their experience, approach to serving a fare-free island community, and past success with government agencies. The highest qualified proposer will negotiate hourly rates for a not-to-exceed contract amount. Administrative requirements include monthly itemized invoicing with a thirty-day payment term, the maintenance of a Washington State Unified Business Identifier, and a six-year records retention period in compliance with the Washington Public Records Act. Proposals must be submitted electronically via Beacon Bid by October 26, 2026.