County launches new procurement portal to boost vendor competition

The Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss several key topics impacting the community. The meeting began with updates on recent infrastructure developments, including the installation of a crane and a chiller, which were noted as significant improvements for the area.

A major highlight of the meeting was the launch of a new procurement portal aimed at enhancing vendor outreach and competition for public contracts. This e-procurement system, named Bonfire, allows vendors to register their interests in specific services or commodities. Once registered, they will automatically receive invitations for bids (IFBs) and requests for proposals (RFPs) relevant to their interests. This initiative is expected to streamline the proposal submission process and improve internal operations for the county.

The discussion then shifted to the temporary installation of Jersey barriers along Trinity Drive, which has drawn public concern regarding their appearance. County officials explained that these barriers were implemented as a safety measure during events, particularly concerts, to protect attendees. While acknowledging the barriers' unattractive nature, officials assured the community that they are a temporary solution. Plans for a more permanent safety measure, likely involving bollards, are in development, supported by a recent grant of over $2 million from the New Mexico Department of Transportation.

The meeting also included a brief mention of public feedback regarding the Jersey barriers, with officials expressing their commitment to addressing community concerns. Additionally, there was a suggestion to involve local summer camps in decorating the barriers with chalk art to enhance their appearance temporarily.

In closing, the meeting underscored the county's ongoing efforts to improve public safety and vendor engagement while addressing community feedback. Further updates on the procurement portal and the Trinity Drive project are anticipated in future meetings.