Council passes controversial ordinance

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - A controversial ordinance passes at Thursday's Terre Haute City Council meeting.

Council members passed the Responsible Bidder ordinance.

This means contractors will now have to meet certain requirements for projects in the city.

Supporters say this will help local contractors by putting everyone on the same playing field.

Opponents of the ordinance say it will restrict the number of bidders available for public contracts.

"It's a win-win situation for taxpayers and the people who live in the city," Charlie Toth with the Laborers Union Local 204.

"The fewer the bidders, the less competition, the higher the price will be," said David Wulf, Terre Haute Chamber volunteer.

The council approved the ordinance with a vote of five to four.