University of Missouri announces retention of landscape services
June 26, 2020
Contact: Liz McCune, 573-882-6212, mccunee@missouri.edu
The University of Missouri today announced it will not be outsourcing landscape services after a thorough review of proposals submitted by outside vendors. The review committee determined there were no cost savings submitted in any of the bids to justify outsourcing the services.
The university spends approximately $1.2 million annually on landscaping services, which employs about 30 staff. Qualified bids were submitted by eight local and national landscape companies.
“During this unprecedented budget crisis, expenses at every level will be reassessed,” UM System President and Interim MU Chancellor Mun Choi said. “We are duty-bound as responsible stewards of taxpayer and tuition money to evaluate all expenses to ensure we can continue to advance the academic mission of this university.”
“Current budgetary circumstances require the university to make tougher financial decisions than ever before,” Vice Chancellor of Operations Gary Ward said. “At this time, it’s in the best financial interest of the university to maintain current operations for landscape services.”
A second request for proposals for custodial services was also issued by the university earlier this summer. A determination on those services has not yet been made.
Related Stories

Teaching and Learning
Mizzou online programs rise in rankings
Online degrees at Mizzou recognized among the best in nation.

Students
Mizzou Artist in Residence and Tigers Support Tigers
Three Mizzou students worked with Artist in Residence Cynthia Perez to create an exciting way to convey the #TigersSupportTigers message of staying safe, on and off campus.

Community Impact
Veterinary medicine team gives service dog a second chance
Mizzou veterinarians help Brady the golden retriever beat cancer and get back to his family.

Campus
Infinite hope: MU, community event celebrates MLK’s life and legacy
On Tuesday, Jan. 26, Andrew Young, a former U.S. ambassador and confidant of Martin Luther King Jr., will help Mizzou virtually celebrate King’s vision.
Subscribe to
Show Me Mizzou
Stay up-to-date on all things Mizzou when you subscribe to the Show Me Mizzou newsletter. Issues will arrive in your inbox every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.