(A) The city operates with a decentralized purchasing system. Each department prepares requisitions and bids for goods and services under the guidelines found herein. The Assistant City Manager supervises, as directed by the City Manager, the purchasing function for the city.
(B) The objectives of this procedure are being adopted in order to:
(1) Conduct business with integrity, fairness and dignity so as to maintain the public trust;
(2) Secure the right materials, equipment, and services at the right quality and quantity, on a timely basis, as efficiently as possible, and at the best value;
(3) Conserve public funds by obtaining the best products and services for the dollars spent or allocated to the expense;
(4) Provide all customers with quality service in a manner that is courteous, responsive, accessible, and seamless;
(5) Maintain continuity of supply to support ongoing service, operations, and schedules;
(6) Furnish timely information to management and appropriate departments covering market conditions and trends, and the probable effect on supply and price;
(7) Assure vendors that impartial and equal treatment is afforded to all who wish to do business with the city;
(8) Secure competitive prices on purchases;
(9) Establish specifications that will encourage competition and accurately describe the equipment, materials and services needed;
(10) Be receptive to changes in material and requirements along with new products and procedures; and
(11) Promote the use of local contractors and purchasing, along with the employment of Camden/Kershaw County citizens.
(Res. 11-003, passed 1-25-11; Am. Ord. 12-028, passed 1-22-13)