Congressman Tierney To Skype With Selectmen

Twice this year selectmen have debated whether to hire a lobbyist to seek funds for the town.

At their last meeting, board members voted 4-1 to propose a $10,000 budget item to hire a federal lobbyist. 

The goal is to help the town secure federal funding for one or more projects, such as , flood control or Humphrey Street redevelopment.

The lone dissenting vote came from David Van Dam, who prefers that the town work through their elected leaders to seek funding for local projects.

"I think we should work closely with Congressman Tierney," said Van Dam, who invited the congressman to talk to selectmen.

Tierney will discuss lobbying Wednesday via Skype, which allows live video and voice communication over the Internet.

Van Dam said earlier that a Skype visit would be easier to arrange since the congressman is in Washington, D.C.

Selectman Barry Greenfield originally proposed that the town spend $60,000 on a lobbyist.

He said Swampscott has not received much federal assistance through its congressional delegation. Most of the federal dollars funneled to the district have been directed to larger towns with more voters, he said.

The board backed away from the $60,000 figure and, instead, opted for the $10,000 proposal — as a first step to see if it generates results.

Towns do not receive money through earmarked federal dollars any longer; but they do receive funding through approved grants, Greenfield said.

Lobbying firms have individuals who specialize in grant writing, he said.

Two lobbyists from a Washington, DC firm pitched their services to selectmen at an earlier meeting, saying they have a good track record of getting money for their clients.

Selectmen meet at on Wednesday at 7 pm.