Ottawa keeping its lobbyist in Springfield

Whether you like what they do or not, there’s long been a role for lobbyists in Springfield.

The Ottawa City Council is happy enough with their lobbyist that they’re willing to extend his contract by two years. The city pays Jeff Torricelli of Torricelli Lobbying and Consulting $3,000 a month to be their voice in Springfield.

Ottawa Mayor Bob Eschbach says Torricelli has been “invaluable” and instrumental in getting the city grant money for things like cleaning up blighted properties and expanding the industrial park.