CLEARFIELD – The Clearfield County Commissioners were asked to “Buy American” at their meeting on Tuesday.
Charles Lombardo and Ralph Lippert asked the commissioners to buy American on behalf of the United Steelworkers. Lippert presented the commissioners with a resolution that would commit stimulus money for the purchase of American made items where and when possible.
Lippert said it was there belief that the purchase of services and materials that are American-made are the best way to stimulate the economy.
“We certainly endorse America-made projects,” said Commissioner Chairman Joan Robinson-McMillen.
Before committing to the resolution the commissioners turned it over to County Solicitor Kim Kesner for review. Kesner must review the resolution to ensure that it does not bind the county to actions that would otherwise be illegal.
In most instances counties must bid projects or services out and accept the lowest qualified bidder.
Kesner said after the meeting that it is often-times difficult for the commissioners to determine the country of origin for items used in projects. He indicated that there was language in the resolution, “whenever and wherever possible” that makes it easier to work with.