Chairman Anthony Rodriguez Takes Bold Step to Streamline Procurement Process with New Task Force

MIAMI-DADE – Miami-Dade County Chairman Anthony Rodriguez is revolutionizing the county’s procurement procedures with the introduction of the Special Task Force to Reduce Inefficiencies in Procurement (STRIP), a new initiative aimed at eliminating bureaucratic obstacles and enhancing efficiency in county operations.

Chairman Rodriguez’s legislation at the May 6 Board of County Commissioners meeting that passed unanimously, highlights the need to overhaul the county's procurement system to better serve taxpayers and encourage broader participation from vendors, including small businesses.

"Our current procurement process is bogged down by over 200 pieces of legislation and an average of 100 individual steps per request," said Chairman Rodriguez. "For contracts exceeding $1 million, it takes over 349 days to procure. This inefficiency not only drives up costs but also creates an uneven playing field, favoring only those who can afford to navigate the delays."

STRIP will conduct a comprehensive review of existing laws, codes, and procedures related to procurement, with the goal of streamlining processes, reducing costs, and increasing transparency and accountability.

The task force's objectives align with ongoing efforts to improve government efficiency. Earlier initiatives, such as the Government Efficiency and Transparency Ad Hoc Committee, have already begun identifying areas for improvement across various departments. The introduction of STRIP represents a focused approach to tackling one of the most critical aspects of county operations.

Chairman Rodriguez emphasized that the reform is not about adding complexity but about removing unnecessary layers that hinder progress. "By stripping away red tape, we can ensure that our procurement process works for the people, providing better value and fostering a more competitive environment," he stated.

The formation of STRIP marks a significant step toward modernizing Miami-Dade County's procurement system, reinforcing the commitment to efficient, transparent, and accountable governance.