ART - Gearing Up to Manage Stimulus Dollars 2009

The document discusses how local government purchasers are preparing to manage and spend federal stimulus funds. It highlights the efforts of public purchasers in securing a share of the stimulus funds and the key roles they play in identifying, analyzing, and recommending purchases and contracts that could be funded with the money. The document also mentions the involvement of procurement officers in stimulus funding planning and the need for local officials to determine the role of public purchasers in receiving and managing the funds. It discusses the uncertainty surrounding the use of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) in stimulus programs and provides sources for guidance on preparing for the funds. The document emphasizes the need for projects to move quickly and the importance of streamlining procurement processes to ensure timely spending of the funds. It also mentions the efforts of U.S. Communities, a government purchasing alliance, in enabling governments to use stimulus dollars quickly through publicly solicited supply agreements. Additionally, the document highlights the pressure faced by government purchasers to cut corners and expedite schedules, which further underscores the importance of efficient tracking and management of the stimulus funds.