The issue of using local engineering firms is being heavily discussed both inside and outside county government. Here is a possible solution to the problem:
Give preference in the review process to firms who employ local engineers to do the work. A firm headquartered elsewhere could bid, but must use locals to do the work. Post Buckley and Hatch Mott MacDonald would be examples of national firms that hire locally. It would discourage firms that that have only one or two-man local branch office and no real commitment to the community.
Set aside smaller contracts – maybe less than $80,000– for smaller, locally-owned firms. I still have a hard time understanding awarding a Chimes Way park design to a Hilton Head Island firm. Those smaller projects can help keep local firms in business.