The City of Greer held a regularly scheduled City Council meeting on September 22, 2026. Key procurement-related discussions included the second and final reading of Ordinance 33-2026 and the first reading of Ordinance 34-2026, both approving financing for improvements, extensions, and enlargements of the city's combined utility system. The council considered loans from the South Carolina Water Quality Revolving Fund Authority totaling up to $1.9 million and $4.18 million respectively, aimed at supporting water infrastructure projects. Representatives from the Greer Commission of Public Works provided clarifications on the nature of the debt, emphasizing it is not a direct city debt but a financing mechanism to maintain low rates. Council members expressed support for these infrastructure investments, highlighting their importance to community quality of life. Additionally, the meeting included financial performance updates and a public petition opposing the use of automated license plate readers due to privacy concerns. No other procurement or contract awards were discussed.
The Department of Defense continues to underscore the critical importance of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program to safeguard its supply chain against cyber threats. Industry experts and government stakeholders highlight that weakening or halting CMMC compliance efforts risks exposing sensitive controlled unclassified information (CUI), undermining prior investments, and threatening the viability of small and medium-sized defense contractors. Procurement professionals and contractors are urged to prioritize adherence to evolving cybersecurity requirements and leverage available support resources to meet CMMC standards, ensuring continued eligibility for DoD contracts.
The DoD and associated federal agencies like NIST and NSA remain committed to enforcing CMMC as a mandatory cybersecurity framework for defense contractors.
Companies engaged in DoD contracting should maintain or enhance their cybersecurity posture to protect sensitive data and avoid contract risks.
Small and medium-sized businesses in the defense supply chain must consider CMMC compliance a critical factor for sustaining business viability and competitive positioning.
Service providers specializing in CMMC assessments and cybersecurity can expect ongoing demand as contractors seek to meet certification requirements.
Recent Department of Homeland Security Inspector General reports reveal that 86% of federal civilian executive branch agencies failed to fully implement CISA's Secure Cloud Business Applications (SCuBA) policies by the June 2025 deadline. The findings highlight CISA's limited enforcement authority over Binding Operational Directives (BODs), which has contributed to inconsistent adoption of mandated cloud security standards and increased cybersecurity risks across federal agencies.
Why this matters: Procurement professionals should anticipate increased emphasis on enforceable cloud security requirements in future contracts as agencies work to close compliance gaps.
The limited authority of CISA to mandate compliance suggests potential legislative or policy changes that could impact procurement strategies and contract terms.
Contractors providing cloud services and cybersecurity solutions may find growing demand for offerings aligned with CISA's SCuBA policies and zero trust frameworks.
Agencies and vendors should prioritize robust cloud security implementations to mitigate vulnerabilities and align with evolving federal cybersecurity mandates.
Federal and state governments are intensifying efforts to address escalating cybersecurity threats targeting U.S. water systems. Agencies including the EPA, CISA, FBI, and state health departments are enhancing regulatory frameworks, funding programs, and technical assistance to support local water utilities. Despite these initiatives, many local utilities face significant fiscal and capacity constraints that hinder implementation of robust cybersecurity measures, creating ongoing demand for specialized cybersecurity contractors and service providers. States such as New York and Maryland are leading with coordinated policies and grant programs, but funding gaps remain a critical challenge for widespread adoption.
Why this matters: Procurement professionals should note increased federal and state funding opportunities aimed at cybersecurity upgrades for water infrastructure, especially in states with active grant programs like New York and Maryland.
Local utilities' limited resources indicate a sustained market for cybersecurity assessments, infrastructure modernization, and technical support services.
Contractors specializing in cybersecurity solutions tailored to water utilities can leverage these developments to engage with multiple government agencies and state programs.
Agencies and vendors should consider collaboration opportunities with organizations like the American Water Works Association to align offerings with sector needs and regulatory expectations.
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Artificial Intelligence
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Digital Infrastructure
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Information Technology
Kenya is actively advancing the integration of agentic AI within its public service delivery, focusing on overcoming challenges posed by fragmented government systems and limited interoperability. The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, led by Secretary Mary N. Kerema and Principal Secretary Eng. John Tanui, is prioritizing the development of secure, interoperable digital infrastructure that enables AI agents to perform authorized tasks across agencies. Concurrently, African leaders including Presidents William Ruto of Kenya and João Lourenço of Angola are advocating for increased African participation in global AI governance frameworks, aligning with initiatives such as the UN's Global Digital Compact. These efforts coincide with significant digital infrastructure investments in Angola, including projects valued at Sh19.4 billion and Sh58.1 billion aimed at secure government information exchange, cybersecurity, digital identity, and electronic signatures.
Procurement professionals should note emerging opportunities in system integration, API development, identity management, and AI governance solutions tailored to the African context.
The focus on interoperable and secure AI-enabled government services indicates demand for vendors with expertise in digital infrastructure modernization and cross-agency data sharing.
African governments' push for greater influence in AI policy suggests potential for contractors to engage in projects supporting compliance with evolving governance standards.
Organizations targeting the African market should consider the strategic importance of aligning solutions with regional digital economy priorities and international frameworks such as the UN Global Digital Compact.
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Artificial Intelligence
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Regulatory Compliance
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Information Technology
New York Attorney General Letitia James, joined by 25 other state attorneys general, has formally called on the U.S. Congress to enact federal safety and transparency regulations governing advanced artificial intelligence development. This coalition emphasizes the importance of federal oversight that complements existing state enforcement authorities to address risks AI poses to critical infrastructure and national security. Procurement professionals and contractors involved in AI technologies should anticipate potential regulatory frameworks that could impact contract requirements, compliance obligations, and market opportunities in AI-related government procurements.
Why this matters: Federal AI safety regulations could introduce mandatory compliance standards affecting AI vendors and contractors working with government agencies.
Agencies may require enhanced transparency, risk mitigation measures, and security protocols in AI procurements.
Companies developing AI solutions should prepare for evolving regulatory environments that may influence contract eligibility and evaluation criteria.
Procurement teams should monitor legislative developments to align acquisition strategies with forthcoming federal AI safety mandates.
A U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois dismissed a False Claims Act (FCA) complaint against Archer Daniels Midland Co. (ADM) alleging cybersecurity noncompliance, ruling that contractual cybersecurity clauses alone do not establish materiality necessary for FCA liability. Judge Sunil R. Harjani emphasized that plaintiffs must prove that false statements about cybersecurity significantly influenced government payment decisions. This ruling sets a precedent clarifying the evidentiary standard for FCA cybersecurity claims and highlights the importance for government contractors to maintain thorough cybersecurity compliance and documentation.
Why this matters: Procurement professionals and contractors should recognize that FCA cybersecurity allegations require rigorous proof of materiality, reducing risk of liability based solely on contractual clauses.
Contractors must ensure prompt remediation of cybersecurity deficiencies and maintain clear documentation to defend against potential FCA claims.
Legal counsel and compliance teams should be aware that audits conducted under attorney-client privilege offer some protection but subsequent representations must be accurate and timely.
This decision may influence future government enforcement and contractor risk management strategies related to cybersecurity compliance under federal contracts.
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Physical Infrastructure
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Construction & Infrastructure
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced that her administration has successfully built over 10,000 affordable housing units, marking a fourfold increase in annual production compared to the previous five years. This achievement results from executive directives to streamline approval processes, a comprehensive local rezoning program, significant local funding allocations, and new ordinances promoting diverse housing options. These initiatives create substantial procurement opportunities for contractors, developers, and related service providers engaged in affordable housing projects throughout Los Angeles.
The City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles City Council are actively facilitating affordable housing development through policy reforms and funding commitments.
Procurement professionals should anticipate increased contract opportunities in construction, development, and related services supporting affordable housing.
Contractors and developers can leverage streamlined approval processes and rezoning efforts to accelerate project timelines and expand portfolios.
Engagement with local government stakeholders, including the Housing Committee chaired by Councilmember Imelda Padilla, will be critical for navigating procurement and regulatory requirements.
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Physical Infrastructure
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Defense & Military
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Construction & Infrastructure
The U.S. Coast Guard awarded a $315 million contract to Tutor Perini Corp. for the design and construction of a new fuel pier and major cutter mooring at Coast Guard Base Kodiak, Alaska. This project supports the homeporting of new Arctic Security Cutters and enhances operational capabilities in the Arctic region. Funded through multiple federal sources including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the infrastructure modernization is expected to be completed by fall 2030. This contract is part of a broader $25 billion investment secured by Alaska's congressional delegation to expand and modernize Coast Guard facilities and fleet, reflecting a strategic focus on Arctic security and maritime readiness.
Why this matters: Procurement professionals should note the significant federal investment in Arctic infrastructure, signaling increased demand for construction and engineering services in Alaska.
The contract award to Tutor Perini Corp. highlights opportunities for subcontractors and suppliers specializing in maritime infrastructure and utilities modernization.
Agencies and contractors involved in Arctic operations should consider the extended timeline through 2030 for planning and resource allocation.
This development underscores the federal government's commitment to enhancing northern border security and maritime capabilities, influencing future procurement priorities in the region.
Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak has initiated a task force to explore expanding employee ownership among Vermont businesses to address succession challenges as many business owners approach retirement. The task force aims to develop strategies that preserve local ownership, support good-paying jobs, and enhance community wealth. This initiative may lead to legislative proposals or further studies impacting procurement and economic development in the state.
Why this matters: Procurement professionals and contractors should be aware of potential shifts in business ownership structures that could influence vendor relationships and local contracting opportunities.
The task force includes key state economic and tax agencies, indicating coordinated efforts that may affect state procurement policies and small business support programs.
Organizations involved in business development, financial services, and cooperative models may find new opportunities as Vermont promotes employee-owned business growth.
Stakeholders should monitor for forthcoming legislative or programmatic changes that could create new procurement vehicles or incentives favoring employee-owned enterprises in Vermont.
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Regulatory Compliance
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Physical Infrastructure
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Artificial Intelligence
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Cybersecurity
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Information Technology
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Energy & Utilities
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has issued an executive order and introduced the nation's most comprehensive Data Center Accountability Framework in 2026, targeting data center operations and artificial intelligence (AI) risks. This framework establishes new regulatory requirements including transparency mandates, environmental protections, energy cost controls, and local workforce development initiatives. It also prohibits nondisclosure agreements for data center projects and creates a state-level AI Task Force to address emerging AI-related risks. The framework includes regulatory measures on backup generators, water usage, and local impact assessments, alongside the nation's first statewide energy consumption tax on data centers. Legislative action is planned for the 2027 General Assembly to further codify these policies.
Why this matters: Procurement professionals and contractors in Virginia should prepare for increased compliance requirements and new contracting opportunities related to environmental regulation, energy infrastructure upgrades, and workforce development tied to data center projects.
The prohibition of nondisclosure agreements and enhanced transparency requirements may affect contract negotiations and project disclosures.
The establishment of the AI Task Force signals growing state-level oversight on AI technologies, potentially influencing future procurement standards and risk management.
Companies involved in data center construction, environmental consulting, energy management, and workforce training should evaluate how these regulations impact project planning and service offerings within Virginia.
