Iowa City City Manager Tom Markus recommended the city hire a lobbyist to more effectively advocate for city issues to state government officials.

In a letter to city councilors Thursday, Markus estimated a lobbyist would cost between $25,000 to $30,000 per year.

The lobbyist would advocate for the city on issues such as Amtrak train service, state grants, the effect of taxation of apartment cooperatives, and other legislative issues, Markus said.

At present, elected officials, administrative staff, and other city organizations lobby on behalf of the city.

In addition to lobbying, the person would be required to maintain relationships with legislative officials, attend several City Council meetings, and provide additional reports outside of the legislative session.

Nine Iowa cities have hired lobbyists, including Coralville, Cedar Rapids, and Des Moines.

— by Alison Sullivan