Letter on Sidewalks to Mayor and City Council, May 31, 2005

The Lancaster County Democrat Central Committee has voted to remind Lincoln City Government to fully abide by and enforce our Lincoln City Code Chapter 2.18 Purchasing Division and the related Lincoln City Standard Specifications in their entirety. It is our concern that some of the contracts to repair and build sidewalks are not up to these specifications. However our concern is not limited to sidewalks as the section of code is broad in its application.

For your information this shall specifically include but not be limited to Chapter 2.18 PURCHASING DIVISION §2.18.030:

(C) The Purchasing Division in cooperation with all officers of the several departments, shall provide for the standardization of materials, supplies, and equipment in accordance with the use of which the various articles are to be put and shall provide for adequate specifications for materials, supplies and equipment used in large quantities or in common use by more than one department. The Purchasing Division shall in addition to other duties:

(1) ACT TO PROCURE FOR THE CITY THE HIGHEST QUALITY IN SUPPLIES AND CONTRACTUAL SERVICES AT LEAST EXPENSE TO THE CITY (emphasis added)

(j) In determining "lowest responsible bidder," in addition to price, the Purchasing Agent or department shall consider:

(1) The ability, capacity, and skill of the bidder to perform the contract or provide the service required.

(3) The character, integrity, reputation, judgement, experience, and efficiency of the bidder.

(4) The quality of performance of previous contracts or services.

(5) The previous and existing compliance by the bidder with the laws and ordinances relating to the contract or service.

(6) The sufficiency of the financial resources and ability of the bidder to perform the contract or provide the service.

(7) The quality, availability, and adaptability of the supplies or contractual services to the particular use required.

(8) The ability of the bidder to provide future maintenance and service for the use of the subject of the contract. There shall be no waiving of guarantee periods in the Lincoln Standard Specifications and all guarantees shall be fully enforced.

We would hope that all Lincoln City Government elected and appointed officials, department heads, and city employees shall be fully educated as to Lincoln City Code Chapter 2.18 Purchasing Division and Lincoln Standard Specifications in their entirety and the reason for their existence and be responsible for their enforcement. This is to serve the public interest, prevent harm to the public and our city, to prevent and stop the waste of the taxpayer's money, to further the quality of our business community, and to protect and further the quality of our city and the quality of life in Lincoln for our citizens.

Thank you for your time and interest.

Sincerely,

Thomas A Green
Corresponding Secretary
Lancaster County Democratic Party