Legal Documents of Baxter

The following goods and services need not be awarded on the basis of competitive bidding; provided, however, that the purchasing agent and/or the department head shall make a reasonable effort to assure that such purchases are made efficiently and in the best interest of the city.

1. Certain insurance. The city may purchase tort liability insurance, without competitive bidding, from the Tennessee Municipal League or any other plan offered by a governmental entity representing cities and counties. All other insurance plans, however, are to be awarded on the basis of competitive bidding.
2. Certain investments. The city may make investments of municipal funds in, or purchases from, the pooled investment fund established pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated, § 9-4-603, "Pooled Investment Fund."
3. Such commodities may be purchased without competitive bidding.
4. Professional service contracts. Any services of a professional person or firm, including attorneys, accountants, physicians, architects, engineers, and other consultants required by the city, whose fee is less than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), may be hired without competitive bidding. In those instances where such professional service fees are expected to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), a written contract shall be developed and approved by the board of mayor and councilmen prior to the provision of any goods or services. Contracts for professional services shall not be awarded on the basis of competitive bidding; rather, professional service contracts shall be awarded on the basis of recognized competence and integrity. (2011 Code, § 5-320, modified)