SENATE BILL REPORT

                           SHB 1879

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, MARCH 26, 1993

Brief Description:  Affording local firms a meaningful opportunity to compete for and obtain public contracts for architectural and engineering services.

SPONSORS: House Committee on Local Government (originally sponsored by Representatives Springer, Edmondson, Bray, Romero, Sheldon, Long and Kremen)

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

     Signed by Senators Haugen, Chairman; Drew, Vice Chairman; Loveland, Oke, von Reichbauer, and Winsley.

Staff:  Katie Healy (786‑7784)

Hearing Dates: March 25, 1993; March 26, 1993

BACKGROUND:

State and local governments are required to publish their requirements for architectural and engineering services.  The announcement must concisely state the scope and nature of the project for which the services are required and the address of a representative who can provide further detail.

The state or local government evaluates the statements of qualifications and performance data on file along with any that may be submitted by other firms regarding the proposed project.  The state or local government enters into discussions with one or more firms concerning the project, and then selects the firm most qualified to perform the project.  After the firm is chosen, the state or local government negotiates a price for the project.  If a satisfactory price for the project cannot be negotiated, then negotiations may be commenced with the next qualified firm.

SUMMARY:

The state and local governments must include, as part of their agency procedures and guidelines, a plan to ensure that local firms are afforded a reasonable opportunity to complete and obtain public contracts for architectural and engineering services.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

Some jurisdictions believe that the term "most qualified" means the biggest or most expensive firms.  This bill will allow jurisdictions some flexibility in giving contracts to local firms.  Prior to 1981, there were various procedures to obtain these contracts, which effectively encompassed the "old boy" network.  Since the adoption of the present law, the system has worked well.  As it stands now, the guidelines could establish the use of local firms, but this bill will enhance that aspect.  The bill affords the opportunity for local government to do what it can to ensure local firms an opportunity to compete.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  PRO:  Representative Springer, prime sponsor; Jim Justin, AWC; Cliff Webster, Architecture and Engineering Legislative Council