If they do not respond this lack of response can be used in other strategies. Get the Contract. If there is already a contract then this information is much easier to access. You can FOIL your agency or the Comptroller's office for copies of the contract. Research the Contractor.
Many contractors have experiences in other states.
If the contractor has had problems this is very valuable information. Even if the problems were caused by a different contractor, if they were delivering the same type of service this is information that can be useful in fighting privatization. New York City has a registry that provides information on contractor performance in the City. The internationals are also a good source on contractor performance in other states. Once you have put your core-group together and have gathered all of the information, it is time to put the information to use.