A policy put forward by the Drumheller and District Chamber of Commerce’s Business Advocacy Committee recommending the Town of Drumheller adopt a “shop local” component in the Town’s Purchasing Policy was approved by Council on September 5, 2017.

The Business Advocacy Committee began drafting the policy several months ago by researching purchasing policies of other municipalities in Alberta, examining the Town of Drumheller’s purchasing policy, and reviewing the trade agreements applicable to the Town of Drumheller. The policy recommendations were presented to Town Council on May 8, 2017.

The Drumheller and District Chamber of Commerce recommended that the Town of Drumheller:

1. Integrate a pre-tax differential for local suppliers of goods and services or construction, subject to compliance with TILMA, NWPTA and AIT.
2. A recommended guideline should be taken from the Town of Stettler policy.
3. Continue to adhere to TILMA, NWPTA, and AIT by using the Alberta Purchasing Connection bid system when required.
4. Post bid opportunities for any purchases of goods or services between $5,000 and $50,000 on the Town of Drumheller website.
5. Purchases of goods or services up to $5,000 should be acquired locally, when the same product or service is readily available.

Based on these recommendations, Town Administration drafted Policy #C-02-17 (Purchasing), which was approved by Council.

“The Business Advocacy Committee is pleased to have our first policy resolution under our belt. The Committee worked diligently to put forward meaningful policy recommendations for Council’s consideration. We are happy that Council was receptive to our suggestions and we look forward to continuing to work with Council and Administration for changes that will have a positive impact on the business community” stated Business Advocacy Chair, Cindy Clark.

In addition, to assist local businesses in becoming aware of and understanding how the Town procures work, the Chamber and the Town are hosting a Lunch & Learn session on October 24th titled “How to Find and Apply for Bid Opportunities in Drumheller and Beyond.”

The Business Advocacy Committee was established in 2014 to play an advocacy role on behalf of business members in the community, and to work with business and government to develop and implement policies designed to ensure Drumheller and district provides an atmosphere that is conducive to business and sustainable community growth. The Committee meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 12:00 pm, in the Chamber board room. All Chamber members are welcome.