Port Control to renew lobbyist contract as $15M earmark advances for runway work

The Committee of Finance, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion approved ordinance 230‑2026 on April 6, authorizing Port Control to exercise the first of three one‑year renewal options on contract PS2025‑0082 with Team Hallahan LLC.

Director Francis told the committee the firm has "served as our advocate in Washington regarding modifications to certain federal processes in the aviation realm" and has coordinated meetings with federal agencies and members of the congressional delegation. He said the firm is assisting Port Control with a $15 million earmark request tied to the upcoming Runway 6 Right/24 Left rehabilitation program, which the director described as having a total cost of "approximately $150 million." The director also confirmed Team Hallahan's services are billed under a $12,000 monthly retainer.

Councilmember Michael Polensek pressed the director on whether the firm is advocating for closure of Burke Airport. Polensek said he wanted to be certain "they are doing no advocacy on behalf of closing Burke Airport." The director replied, through the chair, that Team Hallahan "are not advocating" on that issue and have limited their role to arranging and coordinating meetings in Washington.

The committee approved the option exercise and the director said staff will work to schedule meetings between council members and the firm so members can better understand the firm's work in Washington.

Ordinance 230‑2026 was recorded in committee as approved; the transcript does not include a roll‑call tally.