Public Contracts Subcommittee Meeting - April 10, 2026 1:00pm

The City of Bend, Oregon Public Contracts Subcommittee met on April 10, 2026, to discuss updates and policy proposals related to the city's procurement program. Key procurement topics included a review of spending patterns showing 31% of contracts awarded to out-of-state vendors and 18% to local Bend vendors, highlighting opportunities to increase local and diverse supplier participation. The subcommittee discussed implementing a supplier diversity program focused on outreach, education, and technical assistance to underrepresented vendors, particularly in construction, through a partnership with a local nonprofit. They also reviewed the new Oregon Small Business Enterprise (OSBE) certification and explored how to integrate OSBE preferences into the city's procurement thresholds, especially for direct awards and intermediate procurements, while considering legal and administrative implications. The group debated exemptions for cooperative contracts and the balance between cost savings and supporting small businesses. Additionally, the subcommittee addressed an upcoming capital improvement project for a roundabout at 15th and Ferguson Street, noting right-of-way acquisition challenges and the need for timely contract approval to coordinate with school district schedules. The meeting concluded with plans for further policy finalization and a potential special meeting to discuss an alternative delivery method for a critical infrastructure project at the Water Reclamation Facility.