Alex Moore, Sr. Manager, Procurement & Accounts Payable, addressed the Committee to advise that there have been recent upgrades to the structure of the Staff Awarded Contracts Report for contracts in excess of $50,000. He indicated that the report has been streamlined to provide concise contract details that highlight pertinent vendor and cost information. In addition, there is the inclusion of a chart that provides a synopsis of procurement activity by type and commission. Mr. Moore gave some insights into current market conditions. He highlighted inflationary pressures and supply chain issues in relation to commodities such as steel, aluminum, and fleet vehicles. Current vendors are not able to maintain multi-year contract pricing based on Consumer Price Index increases and many are unwilling to bid on government contracts until the current market conditions improve. Mr. Moore further remarked that essential business decisions continue to be made and General Committee will be kept up to date on market conditions through the Monthly Staff Award Reports.
The Committee suggested additional changes to the report structure for continued clarity.
There was a question raised about the staff award for, Wildlife Education, Rehabilitation and Rescue Services, (contract #215-R-21) and a further discussion about the provision of animal services in Rouge National Urban Park.
Trinela Cane, Commissioner, Corporate Services, advised that this contract is for an extension of Shades of Hope Wildlife services which provides wildlife sanctuary and rehabilitation services for wild animals found in the City, training for the City's Animal Care Officers and dissemination of information on wildlife-related matters. She indicated that staff will follow up regarding Parks Canada plans to deal with wildlife issues in Rouge National Urban Park.