Columbia Authority of purchasing agent to contract ordinance (§ 2-459)

(a) Subject to the provisions of this article and confirmation of department compliance with the public improvement process set forth in Chapter 22, the purchasing agent is authorized to contract for the purchase of supplies, materials, equipment and services for which appropriated funds are available.

(b) Any project which fits into any of the following categories shall not require compliance with the public improvement process set forth in Chapter 22:

(1) Ordinary maintenance of public improvements, including ongoing, routine, and or necessary repairs, rehabilitation, and minor energy conservation improvements (less than $50,000.00 per project) on existing buildings and structures, and the replacement of existing equipment in parks which does not enlarge the size or scope of any existing public improvement, (2)

Construction, upgrade or relocation of electric distribution lines less than sixty-nine (69) KV that is estimated to cost less than seven hundred fifty thousand dollars ($750,000.00) and that does not require the exercise of the power of eminent domain, and

(3) Construction of any utility project which is estimated to cost less than one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000.00) and that does not require the exercise of the power of eminent domain. Provided, however, special assessment tax bills shall not be issued for any public improvement unless the public improvement process of Chapter 22 has been followed.

The total amount of all change orders executed in connection with any contract for capital or public improvements, or any other procurement of services, shall not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the contract price without the written approval of the city manager.

(c) The purchasing agent may contract for emergency work on public improvements and for repairs of public improvements or equipment requiring prompt attention to avoid the high likelihood of depletion or further damage without following the competitive bidding provisions of this article.

(d) The purchasing agent may acquire the right to utilize and/or contract to lease space for special events to be held by the city provided the lease term does not exceed thirty (30) calendar days.

(e) The purchasing agent may negotiate and contract to lease vehicles or equipment, provided the total lease term does not exceed five (5) years and that the total annual lease is less than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) per year.