the second option, changing the chainrings by a mid compact, will accomplish absolutely nothing. that's why they don't want to do it. Even going to a full compact 50/34 won't make that much of a difference. changing the cassette will make a bigger difference immediately for less money and much less work. what drivetrain do you have now?

why only a 30? go with a 32 cassette in the rear and a long cage DR, and call it a day. there are guys on the web putting up to 40t cassettes on road bikes if you want to get serious. $250 is WAY TOO MUCH to pay for this work. get another quote or order the parts and do it yourself, it's super easy.