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Council OKs first readings of new purchasing and public‑works bidding ordinances
Summary
The council approved first readings of two ordinances revising the city purchasing procedures and public‑works bidding code to set approval thresholds, quote requirements, and to incorporate the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act; both ordinances return April 21 for second reading.
City staff presented two code updates on April 7: an amendment to Chapter 3.44 to clarify purchasing procedures and administrative approval levels, and an amendment to Chapter 3.45 to incorporate the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act (UPCCA) and update public‑works bidding language.
For purchasing, staff recommended quantifying approval thresholds: department heads may approve purchases under $5,000; the city manager may approve purchases between $5,000 and $50,000; purchases above $50,000 require city council approval. The proposal also sets minimum competitive‑quote requirements by dollar band (one quote for under $5,000; two quotes for $5,000–$50,000; three quotes over $50,000) and identifies required documentation such as purchase orders, insurance certificates, W‑9s and business licenses.
For public works, staff explained the code will explicitly adopt UPCCA by reference to align the city with state thresholds and simplify bidding categories (small, medium, large projects), codify bid protest and emergency contracting procedures, and permit the city to follow UPCCA threshold changes automatically.
Councilmembers asked clarifying questions about automatic updates when UPCCA changes; staff confirmed internal policies will control which forms and procedures the city uses. Both ordinances passed on first reading unanimously and are scheduled for second reading and adoption on April 21.
