New Search
The flexibility of contracted services may appeal to some decision makers. Because <br /> there is no long -term commitment, funds may be easier to secure. Contracting <br /> allows rapid shifts in the size of the work force in response to seasonal work loads <br /> and changing needs. (Shifting city personnel between departments is possible, but <br /> they may not perform with the necessary level of expertise.) Contracting is <br /> considered by many cities to be less desirable than having an established, regularly <br /> funded, fully trained urban forestry staff. <br /> Contract Guidelines <br /> The forces of supply and demand determine contract costs, and the quality of <br /> contracted work is often inconsistent. To get the best results, correct contracting <br /> procedures should be followed. Because the skill level of tree care contractors varies <br /> considerably, the tree manager must conduct the bidding process carefully. <br /> A quality job can generally be obtained at a competitive price if these guidelines are <br /> followed: <br /> 1. Understand that the purpose of letting outside contracts is to get the job done at <br /> a fair and competitive price. <br /> 2. Prepare clear, detailed specifications. Site a tree they can look at that has had <br /> the type and quality of work desired. Include minimum qualifications and <br /> selection criteria in the bid document. Standards developed by the National <br /> Arborists Association may be helpful. <br /> 3. Inform contractors who are technically trained and competent of bid calls and <br /> encourage them to submit a proposal. <br /> 4. Don't automatically take the lowest bid, because the lowest bid does not always <br /> mean the lowest cost. Base the selection on the degree to which the criteria <br /> have been met, a determination of the ability of the bidder to do high quality <br /> work and, fmally, the cost. <br /> 5. Carefully supervise and administer the contract. This is of paramount <br /> importance to all parties. Contractors generally want to do a good job and <br /> avoid surprises. <br /> 6. Allow for flexibility in the way the bid is granted and the way specifications <br /> are developed. Be willing to discuss contractors' concems and try to meet <br /> them halfway. <br /> 7. Prequalify contractors prior to bidding by reviewing work thay have already <br /> completed to see if they can meet the desired quality. <br />