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Minutes for HB2537 - Committee on Local Government
Short Title
Mandating that certain contractual provisions be incorporated in all city and county contracts, including the provisions of form DA-146a, with certain exceptions.
Minutes Content for Wed, Jan 31, 2024
Revisor Jason Long briefed the committee on the bill (Attachment 1). He explained that this bill would enact some new statutes requiring cities and counties to use some standard contract provisions in their contracts.
Representative Ron Bryce, 11th District testified as a proponent for the bill (Attachment2). He stated that the bill would protect cities and counties from harm, especially the smaller cities.
Representative Doug Blex, 12th District testified on behalf of Jeffery Chubb, Attorney, City of Independence as a proponent (Attachment 3), (Attachment 4). He explained that currently it is not uncommon for contracts to contain very strong language, favoring the other party and detrimental to the city.
John Goodyear, General Counsel, League of Municipalities, provided neutral testimony on the bill (Attachment 5). He stated this bill isn't something the larger cities want or need but the smaller cities could benefit from it.
Jay Hall, Deputy Director and General Counsel, Kansas Association of Counties, also provided neutral testimony on the bill (Attachment 6). He stated that the counties want flexibility and he requested an amendment, "with a population less than 35,000 people" and "of the second and third class" be added.
Amanda Stanley, City Attorney, City of Topeka, testified as an opponent to the bill (Attachment 7). She explained that the city of Topeka has a robust contracts and procurement department and legal department and they do not need "guardrails" in order to enter contracts that are in the best interest of the client.
The following people provided written only testimony as opponents to the bill.
- Stuart Little, Little Government Relations (Attachment 8).
- Mike Koss, City Attorney, City of Overland Park (Attachment 9).
Chairman Bergquist closed the hearing on HB2537.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:37 a.m.
