§ 2-1375. Prime contracting guidelines.

(a)

As early in the acquisition planning process as practicable, but no later than 30 days before the issuance of a solicitation, a procuring agency must coordinate with OCC when a procurement is valued over $5,000,000.00 in order to determine potential measures to be taken to maximize participation of SBEs in the procurement.

(b)

If OCC believes that a proposed procurement will render SBE prime contract participation unlikely, then OCC shall recommend to the procuring agency alternative procurement methods which would increase SBE prime contract participation. Such alternatives may include:

(1)

breaking up the procurement into smaller discrete procurements;

(2)

breaking out one or more discrete components; and

(3)

reserving one or more awards for sub-contracting procedures as set forth in section 2-1369.

(c)

Where methods under subsection (b) are not feasible, OCC will work with the procuring agency to recommend a strategy that preserves SBE prime contract participation to the maximum extent practicable. OCC will also work to recommend that SBE participation is maximized through teaming arrangements and subcontracting opportunities as set forth in section 2-1369.

(d)

Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to mandate increased participation of SBEs where such increased participation would significantly affect the ability of a user agency to complete a given project.

(Ord. No. 2009-78(09-O-1876), § 9, 12-15-09)