Contracting pays off

Of three major government entities, city of Spokane, Spokane County and city of Spokane Valley, the city of Spokane Valley is in the best shape financially. This new city contracts for many of its services.

Competitive bids by private enterprise keep costs in line with current economic conditions.

Spokane Valley incorporated seven years ago. The council directed former City Manager Dave Mercier to contract as many services as is practical. A policy proven successful. Spokane Valley Parks Director Mike Stone recently presented an example:

A renewable, up to seven-year parks maintenance contract was put out to bid. The successful 2010 bid is $86,000 less than the 2009 contract and $48,000 less than the 2005 contract. The winning private enterprise low bidder is paying state prevailing wages. Spokane Valley taxpayers are receiving value services at competitive costs.

Spokane County’s parks expense challenge is demonstrated by its recent announcement of reducing or closing many of its parks’ restrooms. The city of Spokane has similar challenges. Spokane County and the city of Spokane would do well if they adopted policies of fiscal prudence practiced by the city of Spokane Valley, a city that is opening a new park May 13: The Discovery Playground at Mirabeau Point Park.

Philip L. Rudy

Spokane