Scott County raises threshold for bidding

BENTON, Mo. -- In the coming year, department heads and elected officials in Scott County will have a bit more wiggle room when it comes to purchasing items used to conduct business.

During their meeting Thursday, county commissioners altered bidding requirements. Now, any purchases greater than $2,000 to $6,000 require at least two bids from qualified vendors. Previously, the threshold was $1,500.

"This is an in-house policy," said commissioner Dennis Ziegenhorn. He noted that state law requires anything over $6,000 be bid, and this policy just helps the commissioners "keep a better eye on things."

These bids may be taken by telephone and will be documented on bid forms provided by the county clerk's office, according to the notice, or may be solicited and received by letter originated by the officeholder or department head who has requested the bid.

As per usual, any telephone or letter bids must be approved by the commission before the purchase is made, and any budgeted funds are obligated by the county officeholder or department head. It is also encouraged to make a strong effort to use vendors within Scott County whenever possible.

Right now, all of the department heads are conscientious of the budget and often consult with the commission before making purchases, said Ziegenhorn. "They are very good about coming in and asking for approval on things they don't have to," he said.

Commissioner Donnie Kiefer agreed. He said the change in the policy just keeps the department heads from having to get approval on some purchases -- especially with rising costs.