Local governments spent slightly more in 2009 than in the previous year trying to influence state policies at the Capitol, a modest increase for a year when the budget was front and center on the Legislative agenda, according to a report by the State Auditor.
Total lobbying efforts by cities, counties and school districts cost $8.9 million in 2009, a 3.9 percent increase from 2008, the report said. About half of that spending was by associations representing local governments.
But direct spending by local governments on staff and contract lobbyists increased 13 percent during the period.
Still, the 3.9 percent overall increase was lower than what was expected for a legislative budget session when lobbying costs traditionally increase by 9 percent or more, said Auditor Rebecca Otto.
