JEFFERSON — An Ashtabula County auto dealer plans to fight a state law he says denies local businesses a fair share of government business.
John Rocco, owner of Great Lakes Auto Network, spoke to Ashtabula County commissioners at a work session Monday afternoon, saying local government needs to rally behind local businesses.
Rocco was upset he was out-bid by a mere $62 on two trucks sought by the Community Action Agency. The winning quotes were submitted by a Chardon dealer, he said. Rocco’s stores did do some business with Community Action, but could have done more with a little help, he said.
In these tough economic times, local governments needs to extend a helping hand to area businesses, Rocco said. He asked if the county could give more consideration to local merchants, especially when the difference in quotes is so slight.
“The city, county and state has to start supporting its own,” Rocco said.
Late last week, Rocco closed a store in Ashtabula’s harbor district. Rocco employs more than 40 people, he said.
Commissioners sympathized, but said they are obliged to follow state-mandated guidelines that generally require them to accept the lowest and best bids. The commissioners require three local bids for products or service before they can consider someone else, said Commissioner Daniel Claypool.
The county would welcome a change to the state procedure, but that initiative must come from Columbus, commissioners said. “Everyone agrees, but we need legislative relief,” he said.
Claypool agreed. “We go out of our way to give business to local contractors, but there are instances we’re trapped by the law,” he said.
Commissioners said they would rally behind any campaign to amend the state’s contract-awarding requirements. “We want to do the right thing,” said Commissioner Peggy Carlo.
Rocco will contact State Rep. Deborah Newcomb and State Sen. Capri Cafaro for their help with his campaign, he said.
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