Hire locally, says M.D.

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

The M.D. of Big Lakes council is trying to find a way to hire more local people during the economic downturn affecting the globe. With many people out of work, now might be the best time for council to get work done on local roads using local contractors, Reeve Alvin Billings said at council’s Feb. 11 meeting. “We have a lot of iron sitting,” said Billings. “Now’s the time to get things done.” Other councillors liked the idea. “It’s creating a job and that’s what we should be doing,” said Enilda Councillor Ray Dupres. The global economic downturn is affecting everyone, said Billings. “And it’s only going to get worse.” But an opportunity may also be arising where council can capitalize. “Big Lakes may be one of the places people will come and get work,” said Billings, adding the work could be done on day labour, not tendering. “I think it’s a smart thing to do.” Prairie Echo, Salt Prairie Councillor David Marx expressed concern over the way bidding would occur, if council had to tender. “One person could get all the work,” said Marx. “Maybe we could just have an equipment registry. We could save a lot of money and get a lot of good work done.” M.D. manager Jeff Renaud did not oppose the idea but brought forward concerns over legalities. He cautioned council about “discriminating” over contractors and said he’d contact the M.D.’s lawyers immediately for comment. “I think we can make something work for the area,” said Billings. Council passed a motion unanimously directing administration to bring back a policy to use day labour and create a local equipment registry.

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