A recent Bruce County purchasing decision has Brockton up in arms.
Officials in fact are urging the County to improve its purchasing policy and consider the impact on the local economy.
The County recently awarded a five year contract to an out of province corporation to supply Brucelea Haven with its pharmaceuticals.
That ended a 25 year arrangement with two local pharmacies — Brown’s Guardian and Pellow’s Pharmasave of Walkerton.
The Walkerton Economic Development Committee reports the move result in a loss of one million dollars in sales a year.
The Committee says that is the equivalent of 1 to 2 full time local jobs.
Local fashion business owner April Hawkins says it may be too late to do anything about the pharmacy contract — but she hopes it doesn’t happen again.
Hawkins wants Bruce County to be proactive and protect the future of the small business.
Brockton Councillor Chris Peabody admits it is frustrating to see a pharmaceutical contract awarded to Calgary based company.
Peabody claims the local tender price and the out of province tender price was not that different.
Brockton is also calling on the County to have all significant purchasing and tendering reports and recommendations come before County Council members.
