In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1982. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: In August 1982, a contract for the construction of the Gondola Reservoir supply main was awarded to a North Vancouver firm named Ocean Point Contractors Ltd. and then rescinded and awarded to a local company, Coastal Mountain Excavation Ltd. This, and other tenders such as a snow clearing contract in October, led to questions from some people about the way the municipality tendered contracts.
Question: What do you think of municipal tendering practices?
Nigel Woods – Heavy construction contractor – Alpine Meadows
Their problem is they’re inconsistent. It’s of benefit to the area to give contracts to the local guys and if there is more than one of them then awarding should depend on performance.
Art Den Duyf – Contractor of sorts (owner of Sabre) – White Gold
The tendering is usually done properly. I just think it’s a pity at times that Council runs interference with its own staff.
Rick Crofton – Contractor – Alpine Meadows
They seem to leave a lot to be desired. I’m all for letting the local guys get the jobs and if two local contractors bid they should just split it.
Nice to see my old friends. Woody