Tis the season for backups, stop signs and slowdowns through construction.

When it comes to construction work, the City of Timmins would like to see that the road work is being done by local contractors, using locally sourced equipment.

"Buying local supports the local industry, the people who run local businesses, who pay the taxes, who support the community,” said Rick Dubeau, Timmins city councillor

A simple statement with a simple goal, but Canadian legislation isn't on side.

"There are stipulations in both provincial and federal legislation that state that communities can't take geographical preferences into account when it comes to purchasing,” said Nick Stewart, Timmins Chamber of Commerce policy and communications director.

“Essentially communities have to take the lowest bid."

Council is lobbying government to allow the city to ‘buy local’, as long as the price is right.

"Price definitely has to be a point,” said Dubeau.

“There has to be competition, but when all is fair? Buying local should really be considered."

It's an idea the Ontario Construction Association isn’t so keen on.

"There may be a limited number of local contractors and a small pool of bidders doesn't usually produce the best price. Also, local contractors may not have the experience required to build specialized projects such as a water treatment plant or an arena,” said the group, in a statement to CTV.

As the city looks to Queen's Park and Parliament Hill for change, the local chamber of commerce is also advising some caution.

“Potential concern about other communities if they potentially take up the same approach, it might shut out some of our businesses from competing in those markets,” Stewart said.

While the city's battle may be uphill, according to all involved, council hopes the conversation will encourage a second look at the legislation in order to support the local tax base.