The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission, with Parish Council approval, has changed its bylaws to opt out of Jefferson's uniform purchasing procedure, but not because JEDCO objects to procurement regulations. The change became necessary, officials said Wednesday, when JEDCO moved to the Churchill Business and Technology Park two years ago, growing into a major property owner at the same...
The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission, with Parish Council approval, has changed its bylaws to opt out of Jefferson's uniform purchasing procedure, but not because JEDCO objects to procurement regulations.
The change became necessary, officials said Wednesday, when JEDCO moved to the Churchill Business and Technology Park two years ago, growing into a major property owner at the same time. The commission, which functions as an independent public agency, owns 90 of the park's 500 acres, along with three buildings.
Accustomed to life as a renter on North Causeway Boulevard, JEDCO for the first time found itself procuring certain goods and services that go with being a landlord: grass cutting, janitorial services and a large generator, to name a few. Obtaining these items became problematic because the parish accounting system is incompatible with JEDCO's computer server, JEDCO Deputy Director Dottie Stephenson said.
JEDCO will now follow state's procurement requirements. Professional service contracts of more than $150,000 will still require council approval, Stephenson said.