Concerns of RFP Noncompliance and Oregon Procurement Law

Dear City Attorney, City Council and Mayor It has come to my attention that one or more applicants in the recent competitive grant process did not meet the mandatory submission requirements outlined in the city’s Request for Proposals. Specifically, the RFP required that all proposals: Identify the zoning of the proposed location and demonstrate consistency with allowed uses; Include signed documentation from the property owner if the applicant did not have possession or control of…

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Detailed Reason Why A Homeless Grant Applicant Should be Disqualified

The Request for Proposals clearly states that applicants “must” identify the zoning of any proposed location, provide signed documentation from the landowner if they do not have possession or control of the property, and describe a clear pathway to obtaining all required approvals, permits, or variances. These are mandatory submission requirements, not optional guidelines. Failure to meet any of these conditions renders an application incomplete and noncompliant under the stated terms of the RFP. Allowing…

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Grants Pass City’s Mishandling of the $1.2 Million Homeless Grant Process

The City offered a $1.2 million competitive grant for a homeless project. This grant came with a detailed set of rules and procedures designed to ensure a fair and transparent process, one free from favoritism and bias. The grant was ultimately awarded to Pathway to Stability, but this decision has sparked backlash and serious concerns regarding how the process was handled. Among the issues that have raised red flags: Lack of a secured location:The grant…

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Grants Pass “Addressing Homelessness Grant” Process Raises Fairness Concerns

After reviewing the current Homelessness Grant concerns from various sources and the related process, I’ve put together a brief summary highlighting several areas of concern: Summary: The City of Grants Pass reissued its Addressing Homelessness Grant on Sept. 5, 2025, including a rule (Section 9.F) prohibiting applicants from contacting the Mayor, City Council, or staff during the open application period. All communication was to go only through City Recorder Karen Frerk; any outside contact could…

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Support for Background Checks on Newly Approved Homeless Grant Applicants

In light of the newly approved $1.2 million “Addressing Homelessness Grant,” for Grants Pass Councilor Rob Pell’s recommendation to include criminal and financial background checks for key individuals in organizations applying for these funds is a must. These background checks are about accountability and transparency. Background Key points:Pell raised the issue during the council meeting; the City Attorney responded that background checks aren’t typically part of grant processes. Pell cited examples of Oregon cities, counties,…

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