Pontiac moves responsible contractor ordinance forward after pro‑labor testimony

Pontiac City Council approved the first reading of a responsible contractor ordinance on Nov. 10, signaling intent to advance an ordinance that would require prequalification and apply a scoring rubric to public projects above $25,000. The first reading passed by roll call (6–0), and a second reading is expected at a future meeting.

Labor representatives and tradespeople addressed the council in favor of the measure, arguing it would produce safer worksites, better training, and more local, well‑paid jobs. Jacob Toomey, representing LiUNA Local 1076 and the Michigan Labor District Council, and others described the ordinance as a way to ensure “taxpayers see the most value for their dollars” and to support registered apprenticeship programs.

City staff described the ordinance as legally defensible if a consistent rubric is applied; the framework includes three scoring categories—safety and health compliance, workforce development and ethical business practices—and a minimum score to achieve prequalified contractor status.

Councilmembers emphasized the ordinance is intended to raise performance and safety standards, not to exclude qualified local contractors, and said further technical refinement will occur ahead of the second reading.