A city in Florida is considering a rule governing lobbying. 

An ordinance that prohibits lobbying of city officials while the city is in the middle of evaluating competitive bids, however, is needed, according to City Attorney James Yacavone.

This is especially true now that the city is proceeding with plans to construct a roughly $45 million reverse-osmosis water treatment plant, the city attorney says.

The possibility that companies seeking a contract may try to enhance their chances by lobbying staff and City Commission members is now much greater, Yacavone says.