ProGov21 Policy Library

Government contractors are incentivized to cut corners to show that they are a “cheaper” alternative to non-contracted works, often resulting in deception and lack of transparency that harms workers, the public, and the environment, while leading to cost overruns. Public officials...

This report provides case studies that illustrate how private contractors hide three key types of information: the fees they charge the public, how they spend public funds, and details on the quality of public services. Decision-makers should adopt strong sunshine laws that require...

While privatization occurs under different names, such as outsourcing, contracting out, and public-private partnership, it always removes a public good from public control and places it under the control of a private entity. The specifics of these deals vary, but the consequences...

Water privatization has often proven to be harmful to communities, workers, and the environment, and should not be relied on to help municipalities. While many water systems need improvements, corporate control does not provide a solution to provide long-term sustainability, regulatory...

Public-private partnerships (P3s) to build infrastructure, are increasingly structured around “availability payments,” which advocates argue are a better alternative than more traditional revenue-risk contracts. However, availability payments are long-term financial commitments that...

Citywide development that uses traditional business practices, which have historically benefitted from and perpetuated racialized inequality, can threaten to displace the most disadvantaged communities. This report provides tools and resources for groups that are advocating for more...

As local and state governments increasingly contract out public services that impact the well-being of their community, the need for robust contract oversight is increasing. A lack of oversight has detrimental impacts on the people served by a program or service, and for the public...

While public-private partnerships, or P3’s, have primarily been used in the U.S. for transportation and water projects, the model has recently been used to address infrastructure needs to repair, replace, or build public buildings where government operations take place. Problems with...

Too often, public officials propose the privatization of public facilities, public goods, or contracting out vital public services, without getting the basic information that decision-makers and voters need to know to evaluate these transactions. By asking a handful of simple questions...

This ordinance establishes a method of applying Best Value Contracting principles to certain public construction contracts and projects accepting TIF funding. When entering into contracts for public construction, the City of Madison requires bidders to prequalify pursuant to the...

Too often, the jobs created through government contracts have low wages, poor working conditions, and frequent violations of labor law are common. This report identifies the best practices in government contracting for state and local governments to raise standards for workers and...