The Cost of Out-of-Town Contracts
A local taxpayer challenges the Board of Public Works for awarding a lucrative hydrant contract to a Michigan firm over a cheaper, local Seattle foundry.
Seattle, Jan 10, 1894. To the Editor: I read in today's paper that a contract was let yesterday to the Michigan Brass and Iron Works of Michigan for fifty hydrants at $51.35 each, a total of $2,567.50. The Vulcan Iron Works, of Seattle, made an offer of an equally good hydrant for $40.75 each, a total of $2,037.50. Difference in favor of Seattle firm, $530. I hold that an article made and supplied by parties in this city at the same price (or even at a trifle more) ought to have the preference over a similar article supplied by parties outside of this city, but here is an instance where outside parties are favored to the tune of $530. Is it surprising that hard times prevail in Seattle? I have no pecuniary or other interest in any of the foundries of Seattle, but I have an interest in upright public dealing. I claim the local firm should do the work, and I ask if this shameful job should still be permitted to be carried out? - Industrial Economist
“I hold that an article made and supplied by parties in this city at the same price... ought to have the preference over a similar article supplied by parties outside of this city.”
This reflects the 'Buy Local' sentiment as a response to the economic Panic of 1893. The tension between municipal procurement efficiency and the desire to support local manufacturing during downturns remains a common civic debate.
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