6451 - BIDDING REQUIREMENTS
Every effort shall be made to secure equipment, materials, and services with the desired quality at the least cost. Competitive bids and/or quotations shall be used for items or services whenever practical.
The district's purchasing agents shall be authorized to make decisions based on their knowledge or existing market conditions. He/she shall, however, be expected to use competitive bids or quotations whenever possible. Timeliness may require administrator consideration and decisions on specific items such as gasoline and heating fuel.
- The district purchasing agent may participate in cooperative bidding programs through CESA #5, or other groups when such programs are able to provide products or services according to the principals of district policy.
- The engagement of specialized professional services (auditors, architects, etc.) shall be subject to provisions of the bidding policy where practical. The district reserves the right to contract for such services on the basis of any unique considerations applicable to the circumstances including, but not limited to, the level of service desired or the expertise and ability of the proposed provider.
- Every effort shall be made to ensure that more than one quotation is received by the district whenever competitive bidding is used.
When bidding procedures are used, bids shall be advertised appropriately to secure competition from all those interested in securing contracts. Suppliers shall be invited to have their names placed on the mailing list to receive invitations to bid. When specifications are prepared, they will be mailed to all merchants and suppliers who have indicated an interest in bidding.
No bid shall be accepted which does not conform to the specifications furnished. All contracts shall be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, except that the lowest bid may be rejected if, in the opinion of the Board or administrator, there is dissatisfaction with the vendor in prior agreements or unsatisfactory products.