Dear Editor:
Recent letters to the editor and controversy over the purchase of furniture and fixtures for the ambulance facility warrant some clarification of the facts.
Rimbey’s local purchase policy is intended to ensure that all local businesses have an opportunity to participate, on a competitive basis, in the supply of materials, equipment and services required by the Town of Rimbey. The evaluation of supply proposals is based on product quality, delivery, warranty, and purchase terms, including supplier credit, as well as the price quote. It is the responsibility of the town’s administration, and not the council, to approve minor capital procurement.
With the assistance of the director of ambulance operations, I, as town manager, evaluated the proposals for the supply of furnishings and fixtures for the ambulance facility, and purchases were made from a number of local businesses, including Barr’s Home Furniture. These purchases were approved in accordance with the purchase policy, and best interests of the community.
Suggestions the Sears’ proposal was superior to others, or that Mayor Barr influenced the process, are both incorrect and inappropriate.
Russ Wardrope,
former town manager