Abstract

Through the examination of bids submitted to local Portland procurement agencies, a discussion on the use of local preferencing as a local economic development tool is undertaken. Exploration of the price costs and benefits are described and connections to policy initiatives that seek out intentional preference to local suppliers are discussed. A specific look into Portland and Oregon policies are viewed to determine the practical setup for local preferencing. Next, Portland agency's bids are examined to determine whether price and experience are sacrificed for the purpose of a longer term goal - local economic sustainability and development.