Posted on: Tuesday, January 14, 2003

EDITORIAL
Lingle should take lead in contract reform

During her successful campaign for governor, Linda Lingle spoke a great deal about restoring trust in government and specifically restoring trust in the government contracting system.

Making good on her promise to straighten things out, Lingle convened an extraordinary group of construction industry leaders, state and county officials and others to talk over past problems and begin working on solutions.

This was a positive first step that should be welcomed by all.

Considering the size and diversity of the group, it was somewhat odd that Lingle closed the doors of the working session to the press and public. This was, her spokesman said, simply a way to make people feel comfortable to speak frankly.

Perhaps. But if the idea is to convince the public that government contracting isn't an "insider" game played by political officials and the contractors. Throwing doors open at the next meeting will send a better signal.

In the end, however, what will count are the changes made to the present system. Some of the changes will require legislation, but other changes can be made without any adjustment to the law.

In her campaign brochure, Lingle talked about "favoritism" in the awarding of government contracts. "We have observed nonbid contracts going to contractors, engineers and architects who by no small coincidence were major contributors to some elected official's last campaign," she said.

Gov. Lingle could fix that right now, simply by declaring she will no longer accept contributions from firms that do state work. That would send a strong signal that she is serious and it would raise the ante for others to follow suit.