Bay Roberts staff given a quicker way to pay some of the smaller bills

By Olivia Bradbury / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Some staff with the Town of Bay Roberts will now be able to purchase goods and services on behalf of the Town using credit cards.

Chief Administrative Officer Dave Tibbo explained the move is partly to bring the Town in line with the procedures of the new Towns and District Services Act, which recently replaced the Municipalities Act, but also to make it easier for staff to pay some of its suppliers.

The so-called procurement card policy was passed at council’s May 20 meeting.

“Basically, this makes purchases more prudent and more beneficial for staff when we’re dealing with companies that do not take purchase orders or set up accounts, or whether it’s just a quick purchase that you require a Visa (for),” said Tibbo. “This policy makes it work. It’s given to some of our directors, and the policy outlines the accountability of all staff as they use the procurement process.”

Councillor Ross Petten moved to adopt the procurement card policy as presented to council. The motion was seconded by Councillor Frank Deering. Mayor Geoff Seymour then opened up the topic for discussion. 

“It’s straightforward. (It’s) Good to see a policy,” said councillor Silas Badcock. 

“It’s long overdue,” said Councillor Deering.

“I would like to think for all these policies, if anyone’s interested in seeing or reading them, they’re available on the Town website,” added Mayor Seymour. 

“We will make them available,” Tibbo confirmed. “They will be made available, I should say, as soon as they’re adopted.” 

The motion to adopt the procurement card policy carried unanimously.