A contractor's brochure claims "20 years serving the city," but public council award agendas only show the firm from two years ago. What should the researcher use as civic history?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
Longevity claims are like trophy-case plaques — check the award records before believing the years. Public council agendas and award lists are the civic history. A brochure or an unsourced hallway story does not beat those packets.
Full Explanation
Public council agendas and award lists are primary civic sources for testing how long a contractor has actually been paid or approved. Marketing longevity claims are claims, not records. Unsourced staff recollection and unauthorized mailbox access are not substitutes. The report should cite the agenda dates that exist and note the gap against the brochure.