Posting Language
Title
Approve an ordinance amending City Code Chapter 4-8 (Regulation of Lobbyists) to revise the definition of “City Official”, require that information related to direct communications with City officials be reported in activity reports; modify the requirement to disclose certain communications with a City official, remove the requirement of city departments or offices to provide a reporting method, remove the exception for written disclosures to the City department or office, and revise the information for City auditor review. Funding: Available in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Operating Budget of Management Services.
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Lead Department
Office of the City Clerk.
Fiscal Note
Available in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Operating Budget of Management Services
Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action:
On September 17, 2025, the Audit and Finance Committee received a briefing from the Austin City Auditor’s Office regarding a report on lobbyist compliance with City Code making recommendations to identify revisions to City Code Chapter 4-8 and present for Council for consideration.
Additional Backup Information:
City Code Chapter 4-8 sets out the requirements regulating registered lobbyists with the City. In September 2025, the Austin City Auditor’s report recommended revising the definition of “City official” to focus on decision-makers; requiring reporting of all lobbying contacts with City officials instead of just scheduled meetings; and shifting the reporting duty solely to lobbyists. If these revisions are approved, the lobbying activity will be incorporated into lobbyists’ existing eFiling quarterly reporting. The Office of the City Clerk will roll out the necessary guidance and training to ensure a smooth transition.