GARDINER — City officials reached agreements with two Gardiner-based businesses to provide technology and banking services.

City Manager Scott Morelli said the city put these contracts out to bid in an effort to lower costs and at the same time get the best price.

After reviewing bids from five banks, officials decided Bank of Maine had the best to offer the city.

The three-year agreement includes no fees or minimum balance requirements and the most competitive interest rates, Morelli said.

Mayor Andrew MacLean said he is happy the city is renewing its partnership with the bank and looks forward to again working with its staff.

This is the first time since 2005 that the city has used the Bank of Maine, formerly known as the Gardiner Savings Bank. In 2006, the city switched to TD Bank through a competitive bid process, Morelli said.

“I am pleased that we are not only getting the best value of the taxpayers’ dollars, but we are also able to give our business to a local company,” Morelli said.

John Everets, chairman and CEO of the Bank of Maine, said he is delighted to be working with the city once again.

“We have been a pillar in this community for 177 years,” Everets said. “We are committed to the citizens and businesses that makeup this outstanding community. I am confident we have the expertise, incredible customer service and competitive products to serve the city of Gardiner.”

The city’s second agreement is with A Partner In Technology, located across the street from City Hall.

Morelli said eight companies responded to the city’s request for proposal for technology services. He said city officials met with five of those firms and A Partner In Technology, also known as API, “came out on top.”

“Our agreement with API will result in cheaper costs, less down-time and quicker services response time,” Morelli said. “API is a good firm and the fact that they are locally-based makes this agreement all that much better.”

Now, the city budgets $22,000 a year for technological services, he said.

Anne Davis, the director of library and informational services who oversees the city’s technological needs, said she is pleased with the caliber and professionalism of API’s staff.

“They are familiar with our network environment and their response time is outstanding,” Davis said.

API serves several municipalities in central Maine and provides computer and network support services to more than 350 businesses.

Mechele Cooper — 621-5663

mcooper@centralmaine.com

Copy the Story Link