Answer |
|
This is a public works project as it involves a permanent addition to an existing building. The Public Bid Law threshold for public works is $250,000. If this project is less than that amount, then the project does not have to be let out for bid. However, the Parish must still ensure they comply with Art. 7, Sec. 14 of the Louisiana Constitution and be good stewards of the public funds. Best practice would be to follow an RFP process for this project, or at least get documented, written quotes. The advantage of the RFP process in not only transparency but it provides the flexibility for the Parish to consider other factors in addition to cost. They Parish can select the proposal that is most advantageous rather than the lowest price.
As to contracting separately with the elevator company and a contractor for the tower, the Parish should still document both parts of the project together as one project and document its safety-driven reasons to contract with the elevator company separately from the contractor for the tower. This will also demonstrate that the job is not being improperly “split” to avoid the Public Bid Law, as both parts together will total less than $250,000.
Additionally, even though the project does not meet the Public Bid Law threshold requiring it to be let out for bid, the Parish can still choose to let it out for bid. In that case, the bid specs should include exact specifications regarding the elevator to be installed to ensure a high-quality one is used.
Louisiana Legislative Auditor website: 04/04/2026 04:30:26 PM
|