Marshall County may be able to save money when purchasing food for county jail inmates.
The county contracts with Gordon Food Service to obtain the necessary supplies to feed those residing inside the jail. An analysis conducted last month on food purchasing invoices led a Michigan-based non-profit to develop solutions.
Jami Markle with HPS says they think the county can save more than six percent on their current food expenditures.
“We’re just kind of the coupon that goes on top,” says Markle. “It’s business as usual, we just have additional tools for the kitchen staff to use to see if you’re buying on program or what you can switch to, to keep costs down. So that’s through us, but our relationship is with Gordon Food Service.”
HPS is a non-profit organization with a focus on group purchasing activity.
Under the proposal, Marshall County would continue contracting with Gordon Food Service, but would receive a discount applied to their monthly invoice by also contracting with HPS.
The six percent savings is thought to total more than $5-thousand in Marshall County’s pocket. Markle explained HPS’s methods for retrieving lower costs for the county.
“We have about 3,600 members in a 14 state geography and that’s how we’re able to negotiate very competitive pricing,” says Markle.
To participate, the county would pay HPS an annual $700 fee. Contracting with HPS in addition to the food service provider would also open opportunities to receive discounts for auto parts replacement, or office supplies.
Sheriff Matt Hassel says any new relationship would not increase the work burden of the staff.
