Dearborn Heights council approves claims after debate over Amazon and library purchases
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Summary
Council approved the current claims list after residents and members questioned roughly $33,000 in Amazon purchases and library program spending; directors said many purchases come from dedicated library bond funds and that support services and kits are part of public programming.
Council approved the city’s ACH and wire claims list for the period presented at the Jan. 13 meeting after extended discussion about procurement and program spending.
Residents and at least one councilmember questioned a roughly $33,000 set of Amazon purchases that appear across departments. Council and staff explained that some purchases — such as library DVDs, craft supplies and hygiene kits — are paid from restricted funds or library bond money, not the general fund. The library director reported 281 events, 10,213 attendees and program expenditures tied to those services; council asked for more detailed invoices and backups on older bills.
Members asked the comptroller and department directors to ensure invoices include the date of service and adequate backup and to consider reinstating a purchasing or procurement review function to improve oversight. The motion to approve the claims carried after discussion.
