Bill > H1551

This bill establishes new procurement rules for housing authorities in Massachusetts when renovating or repairing properties using specific state funding (item 7004-0074 from chapter 150 of the 2024 acts). For contracts under $10,000, housing authorities must use sound business practices and maintain records of procurement, while contracts over $10,000 can be awarded through competitive bidding or a request for proposals process. The bill requires public notification of contracts, mandates that bidders provide eligibility certificates, and establishes detailed evaluation criteria for proposals. Housing authorities must evaluate proposals based on multiple factors beyond just price, including quality, workmanship, and suitability, and must prepare a written evaluation explaining their rating of each proposal. The bill also requires compliance with prevailing wage requirements and contract bonding regulations. Importantly, the housing authority has flexibility in selecting a contractor, not strictly required to choose the lowest bidder, but must provide written justification if choosing a higher-priced proposal. The provisions are specifically designed to ensure transparency, fair competition, and quality in housing authority construction and renovation projects, while giving authorities some discretion in contractor selection.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1551