§ 2-146. Informal bid procedures.

All purchasing of supplies, equipment and contractual services of a total estimated value that is within the city manager's purchasing authority as established by resolution adopted by the city council of and all sales of personal property of a total estimated value of three thousand dollars ($3,000.00) or less may be made in the open market without newspaper advertisement and without observing the formal bidding procedures prescribed in this article and in accordance with the following principles:

(1)

More than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00). If the total estimated cost is more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), but not more than the city manager's purchasing authority as established by resolution adopted by the city council:

a.

Minimum number of bids. Such open-market purchases and sales shall be based on at least three (3) competitive bids solicited by the city and shall be awarded by the city manager or designee to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with the standards set forth in this article or to the highest responsible bidder in case of a sale.

b.

Invitation to bids. The city manager or designee may solicit either oral or written bids for open-market purchases or sales but shall use all reasonable, available and current bidders' and suppliers' lists. Oral bids shall, whenever possible, be confirmed in writing.

c.

Public records. The city manager or designee shall keep a record of all such open-market bids submitted, and such records shall be open to public inspection.

(2)

One thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or less. If the total estimated value is one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or less, the method of purchase shall be left to the sound discretion of the city manager or designee.

(3)

In all events, prior council approval shall be required for purchases awarded to:

a.

A single bidder; or

b.

Other than low bidder.

Prior council approval shall be required for all sales without regard to the estimated value.

(Code 1966, § 2-60; Ord. No. 89-10, § 2, 5-9-89; Ord. No. 04-11, § 1, 4-27-04)