By Donna Westfall – June 23, 2017 – Let's look at an item on the consent agenda for the upcoming BOS meeting. Agenda Item #11: Approve and authorize the Chair to sign the Agreement with Van Scoyoc Associates for Federal Government Advocacy Services as requested by the County Administrative Officer.** $60,000/year. Whoa Nellie! When you read the documentation to back up the discussion to take place Tuesday, there are a few things to point out: 1.) What has VanScoyoc done for our County since their contract began? 2.) Where is the print out on issues they've tackled and actions or money that has come our way in the last decade or however long the County has been contracting with them? 3.) Does our BOS ever think about going out for a competitive bid to see if another agency would do the work for 1/2 the price or 1/3 of the price? $60,000 isn't small potatoes. 4.) Where is the cost analysis showing why their contract should be re-newed? In other words how much have we paid out over time since contracting with them and how much have we gotten back from their lobbying efforts? 5.) Why doesn't the BOS counter their $60,000 with a lower price? On the other hand, if they are really intent on helping us with Last Chance Grade, it's probably not wise to change horses mid-stream.