It hasn't worked that way at many PLA projects, says the California Chamber of Commerce.
Local subcontractors protest that PLAs limit bidders, drive up costs and are unfair.
They sent a flurry of letters last month to California State University, Fresno's Bulldog Foundation on the rumor a PLA would be used for the Save Mart Center. Fresno State replied unequivocally that it won't do that and reiterated its commitment to involving local businesses. University spokesman Mark Aydelotte says while Turner Construction Co. has been tagged, no final decision has been made and subcontractor bidding hasn't even started. Arguments made in Fresno State complaint letters are compelling. Community Hospital also relies in part on local charity.