Overview
The City awards work to private firms through two pathways:

1. Retainer Contracts – ongoing services delivered under a regular agreement, usually for several months at a time (for example street-lighting maintenance or refuse collection).
2. Project Contracts – one-off schemes with a clear completion date (for example resurfacing a bridge or installing a new water main).

Both pathways follow the same streamlined steps described below, keeping paperwork light while protecting public funds.

Standard Tender Process
1. Tender notice: A contract becomes available, and the tender process is announced in the Public Tenders section. This includes an application form.
2. Company assessment: Firms check the notice, decide if they meet the basic requirements, and submit an application using the tender form.
3. Internal review: The Mayor’s Office and any relevant department (for example Public Works or Transit) assess cost, competence, and compliance.
4. CEB inspection: The Code Enforcement Bureau visits the firm’s site or audits previous work to confirm technical suitability. A short report is produced.
5. Mayoral visit (optional): For high-value or sensitive work the Mayor or Deputy Mayor may tour the premises and meet the management team.
6. Decision: The Mayor’s Office forwards its assessment and the CEB report to the City Manager, who approves or rejects the bid.
7. Award: Successful firms receive a contract letter, start-up briefing, and payment schedule. Unsuccessful bidders receive a simple feedback note.

Letter of Interest (LOI) Exception
Some service areas listed in the City Services Directory accept Letters of Interest instead of waiting for a tender notice. An LOI should outline:

• The service you wish to provide
• Relevant licences, staff numbers, and recent work
• Amount of time your company has been established for
• Why you feel your company is suitable for handling this service area

Submitting a LOI does not guarantee a contract. If the Mayor’s Office considers the proposal useful and affordable, the firm will be invited to proceed through stages 3 to 7 above.

Key Points to Remember

• Keep applications concise but include as much detail as is necessary for considering your application
• Site safety and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable.
• The City Manager has the final word on all awards.

Questions may be sent to [email protected].

We look forward to working with businesses that help keep Los Santos moving.