The Board of Examiners on Friday voted to sign Nevada Magazine's printing contract for the coming year just a week before the publication has to send its pages to the printer.
The contract was delayed last month when questions arose as to why the state used a Minnesota company to print the state magazine
After reviewing proposals, the board headed by Gov. Kenny Guinn agreed with Nevada Magazine Publisher Richard Moreno and Greg Smith of the state purchasing division that Banta Publications Group was the lowest bidder by a wide margin.
The contract is worth $1.2 million between now and the end of June 2004.
Diane Hatch of Craftsman Printing in Reno told the board her company is based in Reno, employs Nevadans and contributes to the state's economy and tax base, while out of state bidders don't.
"But generally speaking, state law has to take the low bid," said Guinn.
Guinn and board member Secretary of State Dean Heller suggested a percentage preference for in-state companies that bid on all state contracts. Some states give in-state companies a 5 or 10 percent margin.
The board agreed with Moreno that Banta -- the company Nevada Magazine has been using -- is the best choice at this point.
But they approved only an 18-month contract, without two one-year extensions contained in the original plan.
Heller's motion, seconded by Attorney General Brian Sandoval, said the contract would have to be brought back to the board to consider extensions.
Guinn said his office and lawmakers will consider whether to give Nevada companies some preference on state contracts.
