Letter to the Editor Re: “IG’s report bashes contract: It says Nagin-era deal wasted $1 million,” Metro, Aug. 31.
Times Picayune – September 06, 2010 – The flawed contractual award process which benefited technology contractor TDC is shameful and a waste of more than $ 1 million — money much needed for priority areas like recreation, blight reduction and street lighting.
Indeed, TDC received its 2009 contract through a procurement process that failed to promote fair competition and, like many past professional service contracts, had neither openness nor public scrutiny.
Additionally, the contract contained questionable amendments that increased the maximum cap over 10 times the original amount.
Incredibly, TDC’s proposal won the day, even though it neither garnered the highest scores for experience and competence nor had the lowest bid.
Two years ago, I authored an ordinance that would have required that professional service contracts of this type be evaluated and awarded via a process that required sunshine, ensured citizen participation and allowed the public to observe exactly how a contract was awarded.
Despite a unanimous vote of support from the City Council, the ordinance was ultimately vetoed and never put into law. The TDC contract represents exactly why this law was so desperately needed.
Fortunately, this proposed change was put into effect by executive order within the first 30 days of the new administration.
For the benefit of all New Orleanians, it was long overdue!
Arnie D. Fielkow
President
City Council
New Orleans
