The proposal was for the upgrade and expansion of the existing analog radio system infrastructure, which is dangerously out of date, to a digital system.
Commissioner Robb Pitts expressed concerns about the procurement process and whether or not the Request for Proposals (RFP) contributed to the county not receiving a larger pool of respondents and even causing some businesses to be excluded from the bid process. Motorola was the only bidder. Commissioner Tom Lowe agreed with Pitts' concerns along with other members of the board, and a motion was made to deny the contract to Motorola.
The board then directed staff to develop a new proposal and rebid this service in a way that does not exclude nor restrict other vendors from being able to respond to the request for proposal.
"It is vitally important to the citizens of Fulton County that we make every effort to be good stewards of their hard-earned tax dollars and that we have a procurement process that is fair and equitable to everyone," said Pitts. "I believe that by rebidding this contract, we will not only send business owners the message that we believe in an inclusive process, but that we may also save the county money by allowing them another opportunity for real competitive bidding."
Thankfully, at least one metropolitan area is showing some common sense. Wish there were more! Thanks to Commissioner Robb Pitts and the entire Fulton County Commission. YOU have won the April 2013 Falcon Direct Bouquet Award - you earned it! As for the Brickbat award - I guess I don't have to tell you who won that, do I? And as for buying American is concerned, where do you think Motorola is made? There ARE some American manufacturers who were never considered - Wonder why?
