Monday, July 9, 2012

Federal Grants Require Compliance with State and Local Laws

Many federal grants to state and local agencies require the recipient to comply with their own state or local laws regarding procurement - in addition to various federal requirements.

Audit finding:  In a recent audit finding issued by the Washington State Auditor's Office, they found that the Franklin Pierce School District No. 402 failed to comply with RCW 28A.335.190 regarding bidding procedures.
  • Formal Bidding:  The District is required to advertise for formal bids for anything over $75,000.  They awarded a vendor a supply contract for $113,048 without seeking formal bids.
  • Informal Quotes:  The District is required to obtain quotes from at least three sources if the cost of the furniture, equipment, or supplies is from $40,000 up to $75,000.  They awarded a vendor supply contract for $45,042 without obtaining at least three quotes.
Tip:  Read the terms of your federal grant and make sure you know what procurement and contracting requirements you must comply with.
Mike Purdy's Public Contracting Blog 
© 2012 by Michael E. Purdy Associates, LLC 
http://PublicContracting.blogspot.com

No comments: