PHILADELPHIA, April 11, 2019 – Today, Councilmember Derek S. Green (At-Large) introduced legislation to revise and modernize the City of Philadelphia’s procurement procedures, thereby simplifying the contract process for local businesses and expanding upon efforts to create a more efficient, business-friendly environment in our City.
Under the proposed Charter amendment, thresholds for formal bids and Requests for Proposals (RFP’s) from the Office of Procurement for all business would increase from $34,000 to $75,000 and up to $100,000 for local businesses, thus expanding access to more small business owners – especially for minority and woman-owned establishments – and incentivizing more diverse competition and opportunities. Contracts less than $34,000 will continue to not have to go through the traditional RFP process.
“We are seeing an influx of entrepreneurs – particularly those with successful startup and tech companies – as well as major corporations, looking to invest in and grow their enterprises right here in Philadelphia,” said Councilmember Green. “They are looking to settle down and raise families here. Their dreams and the longevity of their ventures is contingent upon how easy it is for them to get started in the first place. The onus is on us to empower them and thus, empower our communities.”
If passed by a two-thirds vote before September, the amendment would go on the November ballot to take effect in January 2020. The full language of the resolution and bill is available to view here.
