Wilson County updates procurement policy to align with uniform guidance; includes vendor compliance provisions

The Wilson County Board of Commissioners approved revisions to the county procurement policy June 2 to align local language with state uniform guidance, county financial services director Angel Andrew told the board.

Angel Andrew said the changes primarily match vendor-selection wording to the state's uniform guidance and clarified vendor compliance requirements tied to federal and state grant eligibility. Andrew explained that when the state or federal government notifies counties of vendor noncompliance (for example, related to boycotts or other procurement restrictions), the county will notify department heads and take steps to limit or stop doing business with affected vendors.

Andrew described the county's process for handling vendors who fail to follow procurement guidance, noting departments require vendors to complete Iran divestment act forms and that noncompliance would be treated as a breach of contract. A commissioner asked whether there is an exit clause allowing cancellation of orders if a vendor later becomes noncompliant; Andrew responded that noncompliance would constitute breach of contract and departments are required to ensure vendor compliance.

A motion to approve the procurement policy revisions was made, seconded and approved by voice vote.