The Westchester County Board of Legislators today announced the signing of their bill that will enhance the County's ability to identify the lowest responsive and responsible bidder on public work contracts. Signed by County Executive Ken Jenkins today, the local law implements a legally required questionnaire in the contracting process that will enable county officials to better assess bidders' responsibility based on financial standing, legal capacity, integrity, past performance on government contracts and compliance with labor and other applicable laws.
The legislation, unanimously approved in a bipartisan vote by the Board of Legislators at their regular meeting on April 7, 2025, advances government transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility.
The new local law creates a consistent, comprehensive system for evaluating potential contractors before awarding contracts valued at more than $35,000. It goes beyond simply considering the lowest bid price and delivers important insights into bidders' qualifications and track records. The legislation represents months of focused work by the board and demonstrates a commitment to strengthen procurement practices.
Jenkins said: “Taxpayers deserve to know that their dollars are being spent wisely—and that public projects will be completed by contractors who have the track record and integrity to get the job done right. This law gives the County the tools to look beyond just the lowest price and instead focus on who is truly the lowest responsible bidder.”
Chairman Vedat Gashi (D- New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “This law represents a significant step forward in our commitment to responsible governance and fiscal accountability. By establishing a more thorough vetting process for contractors, we're ensuring that Westchester County not only receives competitive pricing but also quality work from contractors with proven track records. This balanced approach protects taxpayer dollars while maintaining the high standards our residents expect for public infrastructure projects. Sincere thanks to County Executive Ken Jenkins for joining us in this bipartisan effort, which will bring about meaningful reform.”
Legislator Nancy E. Barr (D- Harrison, Port Chester, Rye Brook), who spearheaded the bill, said, “This legislation gives Westchester the power to look beyond ‘lowest cost’ when awarding contracts. Quality workmanship, efficient operation, safety, and timely completion of projects are not necessarily assured by awarding a contract based solely on price. Bidders will now be required to complete a questionnaire which details their financial health, legal standing, integrity, and past performance. We're raising standards to make smarter decisions with taxpayer money, because the cheapest option isn't always the best deal.”
Legislator Erika L. Pierce (D- Bedford, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, North Salem, Pound Ridge, Somers), Chair of the Public Works & Transportation Committee and co-author of the bill, said, “Westchester is required to award contracts, in most cases, to the lowest 'responsible' bidder. How we as a County define 'responsible' is the focus of this important good governance legislation. This legislation helps set up a structured system for identifying ‘non-responsible’ bidders and documents this status for future contract opportunities, thereby protecting tax payer money and producing better outcomes for our infrastructure projects.”
The law also establishes a formal appeal process for any bidder found not responsible, and it requires ongoing documentation from winning bidders throughout the term of a contract, ensuring that contractors remain qualified and in good standing until the work is complete.
Watch the news conference on YouTube HERE.