Phoenix-area cities trying to spend locally
By Gary Nelson
The Arizona Republic
Because public money is involved, city purchasing officials have to shop for the best deals — even if that means local tax dollars end up in out-of-town pockets.
But cities across the Valley are seeking ways to give an edge to hometown vendors, who often form the backbone of local economies.
Some policies are less formal than others, driven more by the culture of the city or town hall than by formal directives.
Scottsdale has several ways to keep its money at home, according to Brent Stockwell, strategic-initiatives director for the City Manager’s Office.
On many small purchases, for example, staffers can use what he called “informal processes to buy lower-dollar goods and services” with a bias toward Scottsdale vendors.
