Bids & Estimates with cities

[tiedeman]

I highly advise all companies to be thoroughly involved with their local city purchasing and bidding procedures. Make sure to get the ordiances involved with the proper bidding procedure for not only yourself, but what also the city has to do as well.

The reason that I say this is because right now I am having issues with my city officals in regards to a purchasing procedure resolution. Currently I am fighting with them because the purchasing procedure that they have in place is first of all wrong, and if they claim that is it not wrong, then perhaps they are not following the procedure correctly (I am still trying to prove that part of it).

It all started when I saw a local landscaping company doing landscaping installation at the local city police station. I asked the city how come the work wasn't put out to bid and they claim that if it falls under a certain dollar amount that they don't have to. They even provided me the resolution apon my request. But in reviewing the resolution as I stated early, not only does it have errors in it, but it counterdicts itself, and perhaps the city is not following it properly.

I will keep you guys updated on the situation.

This is why everyone should be involved and participate with their local city and township boards

[Steve]

Troy,

That is a very interesting story. Have you considered writing to your local newspaper? I bet they would pick up the story, include a picture of you and give your business a plug.

This could be really good for your business promotions.

[tiedeman]

Well, I just wrote to the ctiy manager tonight after reading the purchasing resolution. I stated to him what I found in errors, what I request from him in regards to the work that the other company completed (such as the invoice of how much they charged, and the paperwork involved with finding bids from other companies), and how I was not the only one questioning the purchasing procedure. Another company saw it as well, and they are wondering about it.

[Steve]

Let us know how this goes.

[tiedeman]

I still have not heard yet back from the city. I think that perhaps they realize that I found their error and they are currently talking it over with their attorney.

[tiedeman]

Well, well, well. I just heard back from the city manager today and guess what. They violated the purchase policy resolution. He apologized to me for the situation, and assured me that it would be taken care and recognized as a violation at the next city meeting.

[Steve]

Nice work. Are you going to the next town meeting?

Any more thoughts about creating a press release about this for the local papers? I would think this story would get published.

This is more proof that one person can make a difference and Troy you did make a difference! Congratulations.