BOROUGH EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER CONTRACT AWARDED IN FULL COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW
In response to organized labor protests in front of Borough Hall, the Borough of Beach Haven reaffirms that its recent award of a construction contract for the Borough’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was made strictly in accordance with the New Jersey Local Public Contracts Law (LPCL) and all applicable procurement requirements. In short, the contract was awarded to the lowest responsible bidder as required by LPCL.
Following a publicly advertised and properly noticed bidding process, the Borough Council awarded the contract to the lowest responsible bidder. The selected contractor met every statutory, financial, and technical qualification required under New Jersey law. The contract was awarded legally and transparently, based solely on compliance with bid specifications and cost competitiveness. Neither the bid specifications nor award of the contract were challenged in any court of law.
Borough Manager Sherry Mason stated: “The Emergency Operations Center is a critical public safety investment that will strengthen our community’s ability to respond to severe weather, public health emergencies, and other crises. The law requires us to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder. That is exactly what we did. The process was fair, open, and fully compliant with state law.”
The Borough is aware of and respects the right of labor organizations to engage in peaceful protest. However, the decision to award this contract was not based on whether a contractor was union or non-union. New Jersey’s competitive bidding laws do not permit municipalities to favor or disfavor bidders based on union status.
All prevailing wage requirements will be enforced, and the contractor must comply with all safety, licensing, and labor regulations throughout the project.
Regarding the use of a large inflatable “rat” displayed during recent demonstrations, the Borough acknowledges that such displays are a common form of symbolic speech in labor disputes. While opinions may differ on the appropriateness of the imagery, the Borough remains focused on the facts: the contract was awarded lawfully, transparently, and in the best interests of taxpayers.
The Borough remains committed to maintaining professional and respectful dialogue with all stakeholders while continuing to prioritize public safety, fiscal responsibility, and compliance with state law.
For further information, please contact Borough Manager Sherry Mason at 609-492-0111, ext. 216 or smason@beachhaven-nj.gov.