Quick, who's your lobbyist?

Update: Jim Grace sent me a color photo, you know, so everyone can see that he doesn't look that much like Michael Berry. (kidding) Grace says he lobbies because he's for good "public policy." there you go!

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A very, very nice bit of City Contract is coming up for bid... new police radio and communications devices! The overhaul of the HPD radio system is long overdue, and the problems have been well documented by various news outlets over the years.  So, with  money allocated in the budget, and all sides ready for new police radios... the only thing left:  which vendor to pick?

Ah hah!  Time for lobbyists to make their money.  Enter Robert Miller and Jim Grace.  Two well known, well connected, lawyer-power-broker-lobbyist-types.  Robert Miller is representing Tyco, (or as he told me, better government!) While Jim Grace is representing Motorola.  The two guys are friendly, but now -- no doubt competitive at City Hall.  They were both there on Wednesday when the presentation of police radio system was made.  Now, the two men will be earning their keep by trying to see who can get the coveted contract from the city.

Miller, with the beard, most helped push the JDDA airport concession through, despite lots of controversy.  Grace, who mainly lobbies in Austin, is close friends with former Houston Council Member Michael Berry. 

Surely, the City will pick the vendor with the best quality, price, and delivery combination.... right?  We'll find out in July, when City Council is expected to vote on the issue.  In the meantime, Miller and Grace will be working hard.

Comments

[SP]

Jim is the nicest guy in the lobby. Go Team Grace! We'll make tshirts.

[Stacey]

Wasn't Miller Mike Sullivan's campaign treasurer? Too many connections going on, if you ask me! So... Will Sullivan excuse himself from voting (when it comes to it) since he and Miller are connected???