Silver Spring Civic Building, One Veterans Place, Silver Spring
As prepared
Good Morning and thank you! Today’s Procurement forum is only a small part of the work we are doing to provide economic sustainability and economic opportunity to businesses in our County.
From the creation of the Office of Procurement, to the creation of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, to the appointment of special coordinators for White Oak and White Flint, we have worked to focus on the current and future needs of our County.
We are committed to ensuring that Montgomery County will continue to have the jobs, economic opportunities, and lifestyle amenities that make it the jewel in Maryland’s crown.
As you know, the office of Procurement is the purchasing agent for County government. This office is responsible for buying almost one billion dollars in goods, services and construction each year.
In FY16, 87 million dollars went to Local Small Businesses and 175 million dollars went to businesses owned by Minority, Female and Disabled individuals.
These awards represent a small but necessary change in the perception that Montgomery County does not provide equal opportunity in business.
Additionally, in FY16, twenty-nine percent of contract awards went to new vendors … businesses that had not previously done business here.
As you know, I have always stood for the notion that if you really want to include everyone, you “make the table bigger.” What we are doing here today is helping to open up places at the table.
I hope that you will use the information and contacts you make today to find a seat.
Thank you!
Release ID: 16-051