Indian River County Council Proposes Major Updates to Procurement Manual and Procedures

The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners convened on August 19, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the county's procurement policies and procedures. The meeting, led by County Procurement Manager Jennifer Hyde, focused on proposed changes to Chapter 105 of the Indian River County Code, which governs purchasing practices.

Hyde began by highlighting the county's commitment to efficient procurement processes, emphasizing the importance of fair and transparent practices. She noted that the procurement division has made strides in enhancing vendor participation and streamlining operations, including a successful transition to electronic solicitations.

Key proposals discussed included increasing the quote threshold from $3,500 to $10,000, which aligns with federal standards and aims to improve vendor participation. Additionally, the formal procurement threshold for bids is recommended to rise from $35,000 to $100,000, allowing for quicker project execution and increased local contractor involvement.

Hyde also proposed raising the county administrator's procurement authority from $75,000 to $200,000, simplifying the approval process and reducing confusion among departments. This change is intended to facilitate faster responses to emergencies, such as hurricanes, while maintaining oversight through quarterly reviews by the Board.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation for the Board to approve the proposed changes and authorize a public hearing to discuss modifications to Chapter 105. The adjustments aim to enhance procurement efficiency, encourage local business participation, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. The anticipated effective date for these changes is October 1, coinciding with the start of the new fiscal year.