HomeMy WebLinkAboutCharter Provision Memorandum-Tom Hart 04/11/1991To:
From:
Date:
Re:
THE CITY OF
EUJLESS
MEMORANDUM
QTAIPMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE CHARTER REVIEW CallECITEE
TCM HART, CITY MANAGE
APRII, 11, 1991
CHARTER PROVISION
Thank you for requesting my opinion on whether the city should or
should not contract with city employees or officials for goods or
services. This is an issue we have had reason to discuss during the
last year.
On several occasions we have had to make amendments in the purchasing
of goods and services due to this clause in our Charter. In nearly
all of the instances the purchases were small and monetarily
inconsequential purchases on both sides of the ledger. My first
reaction was; because it was inconsequential, what did it matter? I
felt the Charter provision should be stringent, but realistic.
After having time to consider the provision, I now feel that the
Charter is best left as it is. There are several reasons for this
conclusion. First, we are now a large enough city that we are not
dependent on one business from within our community for most goods and
services. Secondly, for the benefit ' of the city and the employee or
official, this policy will provide the greatest protection. I believe
you cannot only look legal and do right, but you must truly be that
way as well. With the policy written as is, there will be no room for
anyone's intentions to be misconstrued.
This is the basic philosophy we are taking in many areas of the city.
We are finding that a more hardline, overly cautious approach is the
best for everyone concerned. With all this in mind, it is my
recommendation to the committee that the policy remain as is in the
Charter. Thank you for your consideration.
TEH/th