Speech and Testimony
County Executive Leggett’s Remarks at the Montgomery County Procurement Forum
Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring
As prepared
Good morning, and welcome to the 3rd annual Montgomery County Procurement Forum!
It is a pleasure to welcome you today to learn, network and expand your business opportunities here in Montgomery County.
This is an important event, because, in addition to providing vital information, it personalizes the procurement process.
This is the place to get your questions about the procurement process answered so that YOU can succeed.
Three years ago, I proposed legislation that was passed by the County Council to create the Office of Procurement as an independent, principal office within the Executive Branch.
In the last three years, Cherri and her team have not only won national awards for excellence in procurement operations, they have also increased the participation of businesses owned by Minority, Female and Disabled individuals in County contracting from 18 percent to 23.5 percent - close to $200 million.
Plus, they have worked to increase the County’s spending with the Local Small Business Reserve Program to an all-time high at 26.8 percent for a total of more than $115 million.
They also initiated and organized this exciting event to connect and engage with the business community. The goal is to ensure that when you leave today you know and understand how your business can work with Montgomery County and our public and private partners.
Remember, the procurement experts in the room today are here to help you succeed.
The Office of Procurement is working to promote the Local Small Business Reserve and M-F-D programs to increase participation as well as to increase outreach and enforcement of all the County’s contracting compliance programs.
You can learn more about these programs and other functions of the Office of Procurement by visiting their exhibit table located at the Exhibitors’ Showcase just outside this room.
Again, thank you for joining us today.
Enjoy the forum; and I wish you and your business continued success.
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Release ID: 18-066October 5; 9:45 a.m.