Even though it has only been used a couple of times since many municipalities in Door County enacted “buy local” provisions for their projects, administrators like Sturgeon Bay’s Josh Van Lieshout believe it is good for everyone involved. The provision allows municipalities like the city of Sturgeon Bay and Door County to go with a local company if it is within five percent of the lowest bid. Van Lieshout says the city is less apt to use the exception for major construction projects like roads and buildings, but they do use it for smaller items like equipment. Often the local option has been the best and most affordable option, something Van Lieshout appreciates,

Van Lieshout says even when they have to go outside of the area for a project, many of the general contractors have relied on local businesses to help get the job done.