I would rather a solid colour (or combination of solid colours) than a shaded option.. preferred colours are red, blue, or green.... we want the logo to have a government feel.
i like the font in #23 I think we need to narrow in on the colour choice to represent a solid (conservative and trustworthy brand)... I am looking a positioning statements (slogans) at present - this might help to clarify the angle, look and feel of the logo:
Positioning Statement (Examples) Reinvent Yourself Become Something Better Be Something Better Start Something Better Make Your World a Better Place Knowledge is Power Do What You Love Do More of What You Love Learn from the Experts A World of Opportunity