§ 1-5-34 AWARD TO LOWEST BIDDER; ADVERTISING, WHEN REQUIRED; EXEMPTIONS.
   (A)   (1)   All contracts for city improvements, materials, equipment or services costing twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) or more shall be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder after being formally advertised as described in § 1-5-32. At least five (5) days before the last day set for receipt of proposals; provided, however, that in case of professional services, this section shall not apply. The notice shall include general description of the article or services to be purchased, where specifications may be secured and the time and place for bid opening. Notices and amendments may also be posted on the city's website.
      (2)   When the procurement involves expenditures of state and or federal funds, the state or federal regulations shall be followed.
      (3)   The city encourages minority and or women owned businesses participation.
      (4)   A local bidder with a valid business license from the city (for a period of at least one (1) year from the date that bids are solicited) will have a five percent (5%) advantage.
      (5)   Sealed bids will be scheduled to be open during the next regular Council meeting unless a meeting is called prior to the regular meeting. This will be for non-federal or state funded projects twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) or more.
   (B)   The following are exempt from competitive bidding requirements:
      (1)   Professional services where the person employed is customarily employed on a fee basis rather than by competitive bidding (example: appraiser, planner, utility rate specialist, architect-engineer, auditor, legal services, physician);
      (2)   Competitive sealed proposals;
      (3)   Negotiations after unsuccessful competitive sealed bidding;
      (4)   Small purchases;
      (5)   Sole source procurement;
      (6)   Emergency procurement;
      (7)   Procurement of information technology;
      (8)   Leasing of real property for governmental use;
      (9)   When purchasing through state contracts or other governments or nonprofit agencies.
(Am. Ord. 14-05, passed 5-12-2014; Am. Ord. 23-15, passed 9-11-2023)