tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669912661106248580.post378056491281422889..comments2023-04-01T05:34:12.007-07:00Comments on Mayor Tim Leavitt: How to Make Cuts in Tough Times but Strengthen Core ServicesTim Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13917356189491441022noreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669912661106248580.post-78101338219716129402009-05-29T11:09:36.530-07:002009-05-29T11:09:36.530-07:00You're welcome!
As for contracting for services, ...You're welcome!<br /><br />As for contracting for services, my perspective is this:<br /><br />Indeed, there are many business resources and talents right here in Vancouver.<br /><br />I have long been bothered by the contracting out of our community for services, when it was highly apparent that local companies could have easily performed the work. According to the City Attorney, there is a fine line of 'discrimination' when preference to local business is attempted.<br /><br />My perspective:<br /><br />If at all possible, the City and other local governments should contract with local companies.<br /><br />Why?<br /><br />These companies employ, for the most part, our neighbors, friends and family members.<br /><br />Many of our local businesses have ownership and employees with philanthropic attitude, and give back to our community through volunteerism, event sponsorships, etc.<br /><br />The City must be MORE focused on growing local businesses and employers, to further increase the tax revenues and allow for the adequate funding of even the most basic of services -- like police, pothole repair and sidewalk construction!<br /><br />If companies from outside of Vancouver are serious about establishing a long-term working relationship with local government agencies, they should consider opening an office here!Tim Leavitthttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13917356189491441022noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669912661106248580.post-32230546102605066522009-05-29T09:13:41.112-07:002009-05-29T09:13:41.112-07:00Thank you for being responsive to questions. Budg...Thank you for being responsive to questions. Budget shortfalls are difficult for anyone to face; No one wants to see jobs cut, but that is usually the only answer-- how its done is the critical question. I appreciate that you have gone to other "agencies" that have faced shortfalls to see what has worked and what hasn't. That is refreshing thinking.Oninemihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16968266004719313981noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669912661106248580.post-62864877405758184572009-05-29T07:35:06.369-07:002009-05-29T07:35:06.369-07:00Hi Tim,
Thanks for your follow-up from our previou...Hi Tim,<br />Thanks for your follow-up from our previous post. I was hoping to see something, as a critique without alternatives is hollow.<br /><br />As a former consultant, I'm happy to see you look towards the private industry as a way for cost savings.<br /><br />I just have a simple question. Vancouver has a strong business community, but many requirements still pull in people from Portland. What's your stance on hiring private firms out of Portland, especially if they offer a significantly lower rate and higher quality?<br /><br />Thanks,<br />-JayUnknownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07096480671150590363noreply@blogger.com