Public Affairs & Government Relations: Building Connections That Matter.
We have a long history of successfully navigating our clients through the complex hurdles and challenges of local government, with our services spanning over a multiplicity of marketplaces, including healthcare, technology, transportation, housing and real estate, procurement, business solutions, energy and utilities, and financial services.
Experienced
As lifelong Chicagoans who have been an inextricable part of the political fabric of our city and state for decades, we understand first hand the unique, complex and multifaceted character of Chicago, its suburbs and downstate Illinois communities. We know the decision makers and the community stakeholders and have developed rich and meaningful relationships with them for many years.
Connected
MLS is the preeminent LOCAL government affairs firm in Illinois.
Led by two former Chicago aldermen and a veteran public affairs professional with a decades-long history of service in State and Cook County government, MLS Public Strategies offers you a team of public affairs consultants with unparalleled access to elected and administrative officials and the political savvy and experience to get the job done.
The Story of MLS
Our
Expertise
Strategy
MLS Public Strategies provides a wide range of advisory services to help individuals and organizations drive growth and build opportunity. Our team of experienced professionals has a deep understanding of the public policy and government relations landscape, and we are skilled at developing and executing strategies that achieve our clients' goals.
Execution
MLS Public Strategies can help organizations with a variety of tasks, including:
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Advocating for their interests before government bodies
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Developing and implementing public
policy strategies -
Building relationships with key decision-makers
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Navigating complex regulatory processes
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Identifying and capitalizing on new opportunities
Advisory
We help our clients navigate government by crafting and executing public affairs strategies that magnify their voice, build relationships with key stakeholders, and achieve their public policy goals. We also train our clients in media relations and organize public and private events on their behalf.
Solutions
Helping you achieve your goals.
Based in Chicagoland but serving our clients nationwide in cities, states, and counties and their sister agencies, we have a long history of successfully assisting our clients through complex hurdles and challenges, with our services spanning over several marketplaces, including healthcare, technology, transportation, business solutions, energy and utilities and financial services.
It’s all about a dialogue
A few words from our clients.
I have known and worked with Joe, Fred and Rod for several years. No one works harder or is more respected than these guys … they are the preeminent public affairs firm in Chicago.
The Honorable Walter Burnett
Alderman and Vice Mayor
City of Chicago
I have worked shoulder-to-shoulder with former Aldermen Rod Sawyer and Joe Moore for my entire time in City Council. I have known and worked closely with Fred for decades. Integrity, respect, hard-working say it all about them. Perhaps, more than anyone, they know government and how to get things done.
The Honorable Brian Hopkins
Alderman and Chair of the Committee on Public Safety
City of Chicago
Great news on Rod, Joe and Fred starting MLS Public Strategies. These guys are the best in the business. No one works harder than them. No one is more respected than them. They know how to get things done in this town.
The Honorable Stanley Moore
Cook County Commissioner, 4th District
I have had the pleasure and honor of serving together in City Council with former Aldermen Rod Sawyer and Joe Moore. Additionally, I have known and worked with Fred for more then 30 years. They will make a great team as they are hard-working, smart and knowledgeable about how government works.
The Honorable Michelle Harris
Alderman, 8th Ward
Chairman of the Committee on
Committees and Rules,
City of Chicago
These three are teaming up? Look out! They are a force to be reckoned with because they are respected, trusted, and well-liked and yet they fight hard and pull no punches.
The Honorable Gilbert Villegas
Alderman, 36th Ward
City of Chicago
Rod, Joe and Fred are dear friends! The are hard-working, disciplined and highly respected. Unlike many others, they always do their homework before we meet and truly care about helping people from point A to point B in growth. Their reputation throughout Cook County and City of Chicago government is stellar. They will always have an open door with me.
The Honorable Dennis Deer
Cook County Commissioner, 2nd District
Chair, Cook County Health and Hospitals
Vice President, Illinois State
Association of Counties
Integrity, knowledge, experience and incredibly hard working! These are just a handful of characteristics that represent Rod, Fred, and Joe. They know this city and county like no one else. My door is always open for this team.
The Honorable Stephanie Coleman
Alderman, City of Chicago
Chair, Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus
Rod, Joe and Fred are a “Dream Team.” While over the years, I have come to know each of them individually, I can attest that collectively, they represent can-do attitudes steeped in community service, relationship-building and generational change. Cloaked in Knowledge, integrity and collaboration, MLS is a local gem.
The Honorable Bill Lowry
Cook County Commissioner – 3rd District
Vice Chair, Finance Committee