§ 2-58. Service contracts.

(a)

The department head is responsible for negotiating the terms of a contract appropriate for the purchase of any services. The department head shall comply with all statutes, ordinances and regulations in the negotiation of such contracts. For service contracts not exceeding a total contract amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00) per year for the life of the contract, the department head shall use such methods and informal procedures which, in the judgment of the department head, will secure the lowest competitive price consistent with operational needs. For service contracts exceeding a total contract amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00) per year for the life of the contract, the department head shall use a formal competitive solicitation process. If a department head proposes a waiver of competitive solicitation for a particular agreement above this threshold, such waiver documenting a single or sole source justification must be submitted and approved by the purchasing agent prior to commencement of negotiation of the agreement. The purchasing agent and county auditor shall develop policies and procedures to assist department heads in complying with these requirements.

(b)

Contracts within the scope of authority granted in Section 2-54(b) and not within the exceptions listed in Section 2-55 shall be executed by the purchasing agent. Contracts for purchases described in Section 2-55 shall be executed by the department head or his or her designee. All other service contracts shall be submitted to the board for its approval.

( Ord. No. 6165, § I , 5-24-2016; Ord. No. 4654 § 1, 1993.)