“Over the last month I met with advocates on all sides of this contract, met with government officials involved in the process and did my own independent research in order to have a firm grasp of the issues at stake in this contract. Ultimately, I believe the process produced an unacceptable result that would entrust the care of some of our most vulnerable residents to a company with a deeply troubling track record of human rights abuses. I couldn’t in good conscience vote in support of that outcome.

“I still believe, as I’ve said many times, that the Council’s involvement in contracting can lead to the politicization of the process. As an outsider, I saw results skewed by politics and I still strongly believe we need to get the Council out of the process.

“I came to the Council with the intention of voting yes on all contracts and using the Council’s oversight role to ensure contracts, once awarded, were implemented well.  As the co-introducer of a bill that removes the Council from the procurement process, I will continue fighting for increased transparency and fairness and I remain steadfast in my commitment to vigorous oversight of all contracts once awarded.”

About Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau

In her many years of service to the community, Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau (D-Ward 1) has brought perspectives from a career that spans the non-profit, public and private sectors. She is committed to strengthening our schools, increasing affordable housing and promoting government transparency and the highest ethical standards. Prior to joining the Council, she was a strategic advisor to faith-based, Democratic and environmental non-profits, and is a former ANC. Follow her on Twitter @brianneknadeau or at Facebook.com/brianneknadeau.