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Lake County Launches 'Buy Local. Build Local. Work Local' program
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Lake County's new Buy Local. Build Local. Work Local. program aims to connect Lake County businesses-including women-owned and minority businesses-with government procurement opportunities. The program's overarching objective is to maximize participation from these businesses in the County's procurement process, while adhering to the law.
Lake County purchases more than $186 million in goods and services each year including equipment, products, supplies, and services ranging from small to big purchases. In addition, the County has multi-million dollar construction projects including roads and buildings where products and services are needed. For example, the County Board recently approved a $100 million Courthouse Expansion Project which includes construction of a new nine-story court tower in Waukegan, as well as a tunnel connecting the new tower with the existing courthouse, and other renovation projects.
"The County Board recognizes that vendors, suppliers, and contractors, as well as individual job seekers may be interested in doing work on this major project, and other Lake County projects. We are doing targeted outreach to local, women-owned and minority businesses in an effort to keep dollars in Lake County and to promote workforce diversity," Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor said. |
The County has retained Ralph G. Moore & Associates, Inc. (RGMA) to assist in development of a comprehensive economic opportunity program that includes recommended policies and procedures, outreach strategies, and job training and workforce programs. RGMA is a Chicago based firm and internationally recognized leader in the development and implementation of these programs.
Lawlor said, "We want to make sure businesses are aware of the opportunities and understand how to navigate the often complex procurement process."
Lake County is hosting an informational seminar on bid opportunities for the Courthouse Expansion Project on Sept. 3 at 9 a.m. at the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago. Businesses are invited to attend this event and meet the procurement, design, and construction team, ask questions, and learn how to take advantage of opportunities to bid.
To register for bid opportunities and access bid documents, visit www.LakeCountyCourthouseExpansion.com, or email questions to info@LakeCountyCourthouseExpansion.com.
State law mandates an open and competitive bidding process and requires that contracts be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The County is prohibited from demonstrating a preference based on bidder's location, race, or gender.
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