1. The first question grants the authority to the city controller's office to audit all contracts with agencies that receive city funds. Public agencies and authorities such as the Redevelopment Authority or the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation are now not subject to audits, although contracts with these entities often involve many public dollars. 2. The second question would add a non-voting member to the Board of Pensions and Retirement, appointed by and from City Council. This provision gives Council, who has oversight over the board's fiscal health, a seat at the board meetings. 3. The third question would give bid preference to Philadelphia-based firms going after business with the city. While this could drive up the cost of services for citizens, the upside, in that it could encourage businesses to move to the city. 4. This question would raise the ceiling from $10,000 to $25,000 on city contract amounts that require formal bids. There are concerns that this also lowers the gates on pay-to-play. This initiative would also give smaller companies a better chance to go after city contracts, and avoid the cumbersome, expensive, and time-consuming bid process. 5. The fifth question would authorize the Health Department to study universal health care so everyone in the city could get decent health care. 6. Question #6 is to create an insurance public advocate who would represent the interests of city consumers with the goal of lowering insurance rates. Since this role would be folded into the office of Consumer Affairs, launched since this ballot question arose, and not siphon off resources from its efforts. 7. Question #7 is for cooperative purchasing agreements among public agencies. Potential for efficiency and cost-saving. ---- You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named "UnivCity." To unsubscribe or for archive information, see <http://www.purple.com/list.html>.
