Why it Matters
The City of San Diego retained Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP to supplement its existing team at Holland & Knight LLP marking the first time since 2003 that the city has worked with multiple firms simultaneously.
By the Numbers
San Diego’s lobbying spending spans over two decades:
- Squire Patton Boggs (2003-2022): 60 filings, $3.05 million
- Holland & Knight LLP (2022-Present): 16 filings, $590,000
- Total historical spending: Over $3.6 million
The new Manatt team includes Joe O’Brien and Eve Maldonado‑O’Toole. Both specialize in representing California municipalities on federal funding issues.
Broader Context
Congress is actively considering major infrastructure and housing legislation. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act created new funding opportunities. Meanwhile, California’s ongoing homelessness crisis has intensified local government advocacy for federal assistance. Water infrastructure remains critical as climate change strains municipal systems nationwide.
The Agenda
San Diego’s lobbying focuses on two key areas:
- Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA): Securing federal financing for water projects
- Housing initiatives: Safe parking sites, affordable housing, homelessness programs, HOME funding, emergency housing
The registration shows no specific legislation targeted, reflecting broad advocacy across multiple policy areas.
Competitive Landscape
San Diego faces crowded competition for federal dollars. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, City of Phoenix, and City of Fort Wayne also lobby on WIFIA. For housing, competitors include Salt Lake City, City of Fayetteville, and the Hudson County Improvement Authority.
Between The Lines
Congress is moving on San Diego’s priority issues. The H.R.5018 – Naomi Schwartz and Susan Rose Safe Parking Act of 2025 directly addresses safe parking programs. Rep. Jim Costa, Rep. Dan Newhouse, and Sen. John Curtis introduced legislation to expand WIFIA eligibility.
Recent hearings examined water infrastructure financing and HOME program modernization. Sen. Alex Padilla and Rep. Maxine Waters led efforts to fund emergency housing vouchers. Rep. Joyce Beatty and Rep. John Garamendi reintroduced HOME reauthorization legislation.
The Bottom Line
San Diego’s dual-firm strategy reflects the competitive federal funding landscape. With active congressional consideration of water and housing legislation, the timing appears strategic. The city’s expanded lobbying capacity positions it to compete more effectively for federal resources.
All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!
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