By Shelley Kofler, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-899005.mp3
Dallas, TX – A Dallas Council debate over multi-million dollar concession contracts at Love Field became heated yesterday. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports on concerns about racism and fairness.
At issue are no-bid contracts for newsstands, food and beverage sales at Love Field. A city proposal would extend those contracts for nearly 20 years without opening them for competitive bidding. State Representative Helen Giddings and Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson have significant portions of the contracts, as does businessman Gilbert Aranza a political donor.
Giddings told council members her reputation has been impugned by media reports. Giddings, an African-American, seemed to question whether race is involved.
Rep. Giddings: I have done nothing wrong. And let me just be clear. I am not a person who thinks in racial terms but we have to make sure we do not allow the newspapers to lynch people in this town.
Some council members argued for continuing the contracts saying current vendors stuck it out during slow sales following 9-11 and they'll be faced with another slowdown during renovation at Love Field.
But Mayor Tom Leppert argued in favor of competitive bidding saying an ethical process is important.
Mayor Leppert: In our positions we have the special fiduciary responsibility to make sure that we're cutting a business deal, a business deal that to be truthful with you is devoid of a lot of emotions at times. One where we represent all of the people of our city.
A divided council will reconsider the contracts in June.