Purdue further trims costs by slashing lobbying group

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Purdue University is its cutting ties with a lobbying firm in Washington, D.C.

The move eliminates a permanent University employee position, which was salaried at nearly $83,000.

According to federal data, Purdue has annually spent around a half-million dollars in lobbying for the last three years, though in 2007 and 2008 it spent more than $800,000.

University officials say they will expect to save a significant amount of money by contracting a person to lobby when needed.

They believe this way they can get more for their money.

"I believe it was motivated equally by effectiveness and cost-effectiveness,” Purdue spokesman Chris Sigurdson said. “I think we need Washington to understand the role that Purdue faculty play in innovation and economic progress and there was probably insight from the President and others on how to do it better."

The cost for the new contract arrangement is not known at this time.

Officials say this is part of a university-wide look at expenses to keep Purdue affordable and help cover the two-year tuition freeze.