Buy local debate continues

In your editorial viewpoint last week, you made mention of the fact that I was adamant that "locals must be absolutely competitive in order to win bids for city contracts." Tis true, that's what I think. But you left out the part where I mentioned quality as being a necessary part of the bid process. In other words, lowest price doesn't always mean that you'll get the best deal. Although I was speaking specifically about large contracting and consulting bids, the same could be said about products from vendors. Though I find it preferable to hire locally, we shouldn't arbitrarily exclude other firms.

Also, I think that city staff and the Council do adequately consider all the aspects mentioned in your article. For instance, if we were to hire an out-of-town contractor, there would be extra transportation and mobilization costs. In spite of these extra costs, if said contractor has a lower price, one has to ask why, because price is a serious consideration and logic would dictate that a local firm without these costs would be cheaper. Another question to ask concerns competency and warranty. Once the questions are answered, some company has to be hired. City staff and the City Council, in my opinion, operate through a fair, comprehensive, thoughtful, and conscientious bidding process. As a result, we try to get the best deal, in every respect, for the people who are paying the bill.

Doug Adams