How does the city procure goods and services?

Answer: The Purchasing Division is the purchasing authority for most commodities and non-professional services made for the city.

Vendors shall not make sales to city employees without first obtaining a purchase order unless prior approval is given by the Purchasing Division.

All purchases of supplies, equipment and contractual services (except professional services) where the cost exceeds $40,000 are purchased on the basis of formal competitive sealed bids or proposals. These types of solicitations are called Invitation for Bid or Request for Proposal.

Purchases of $40,000 and less are made on the open market and whenever possible these purchases are based on a minimum of three informal quotes. Quotes may be solicited by mail, email, fax or telephone.

Some small purchases (under $1,000) are made directly by city departments using "Departmental Purchase Orders."

Specific bidding procedures have been established by the city to conform to the requirements established by law and to provide for uniform treatment of all vendors.