Report Prepared by: Jolie Houston, Interim City Attorney, City Attorney's Office
Title
SUBJECT: Report on Local Business Preference Policy
REPORT IN BRIEF
Consider Council direction to have a policy that allows for a local preference when purchasing goods and services from vendors.
RECOMMENDATION
Provide staff direction on the attached draft ordinance and draft resolution regarding a Local Business Preference Policy concerning purchasing goods and services from local vendors.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Provide direction as requested; or,
2. Continue to a future meeting; or,
3. Deny this item.
AUTHORITY
City of Merced Charter, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As it pertains to stimulating the local economy.
DISCUSSION
The City purchases a variety of supplies and services as a part of doing daily business. In addition to common items such as office supplies, the City purchases landscaping materials, hand tools and various parts and supplies. The City also requires the use of non-professional services such as minor construction, including fencing of properties, towing, signage, City automobile repair, miscellaneous facility repairs and more. While many of these purchases and services are not available from vendors in Merced, others are available locally. Staff currently seeks out local vendors whenever possible.
The City Council asked staff to prepare a policy that would require the City to consider and select local businesses, when appropriate, in an effort to support, stimulate, and boost the City of Merced's local economy. Strategies that promote the use of local vendors and service provider's help retain local dollars within the community and strengthen employment. In order to promote employment and business opportunities for local businesses and give preference to Merced businesses and consultants, staff is asking for direction from the Council on the attached draft ordinance amending the City of Merced's Municipal Code Chapter 3.04 Purchasing...
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