Every dollar Luzerne County spends is a choice — a choice about who we are, what we value and where we’re headed. It’s not just about balancing budgets; it’s about strengthening our neighborhoods, supporting local businesses and making sure our investments create real value for the people who call this county home.
Right now, we’re updating our county’s purchasing policy — an overdue fix that will make government spending more transparent, efficient and accountable. This isn’t about red tape. It’s about action. It’s about making sure every contract, every partnership and every dollar spent moves Luzerne County forward.
Our local businesses aren’t just part of the economy — they’re part of our community.
They hire our neighbors, sponsor our kids’ sports teams, and keep our main streets alive. A modernized purchasing policy should make sure they have a fair shot at county contracts, creating opportunities that keep jobs here and grow our local economy.
We’re not here to play favorites, but we are here to level the playing field. A fair, competitive and transparent bidding process ensures taxpayer dollars go to businesses that deliver real value — not just the lowest bidder cutting corners.
The cheapest option isn’t always the smartest investment. A vendor who misses deadlines, uses subpar materials, or overpromises and underdelivers costs us more in the long run. That’s why our purchasing policy should prioritize responsible contractors — businesses that show up, follow through, and take pride in their work.
That’s where the Responsible Contractor Ordinance comes in. It’s not just another rule — it’s a promise to taxpayers that their money will be spent on quality, accountability and results.
Here’s what it does:
• Ensures taxpayer dollars go to firms with a proven track record—businesses that complete projects safely, on time and within budget.
• Requires contractors to pay fair, prevailing wages, follow workplace safety laws and invest in apprenticeship programs that train the next generation of skilled workers.
• Stops bad actors — companies with histories of wage theft, safety violations or contract fraud — from getting public contracts.
• Creates real transparency by making contractor certifications and compliance records available to the public.
This isn’t about raising costs — it’s about raising standards. It’s about getting the best value for every dollar spent while supporting skilled local workers and responsible businesses.
Together, a modernized purchasing policy and the Responsible Contractor Ordinance ensure that Luzerne County invests in quality, accountability and long-term success.
Because smart spending isn’t just about fixing today’s problems — it’s about building for tomorrow. Stronger roads, safer bridges and investments that last. Every decision should ask: Will this make Luzerne County stronger in five, 10, 20 years? If the answer is yes, then it’s not just spending — it’s an investment in our future.
This is about making every dollar count. It’s about investing in our businesses, our workers and our community.
It’s not just about how we spend — it’s about how we invest in us.
James Sabatino is a Luzerne County Council member.
