By law and district policy, schools and programs are required to use a competitive purchasing method for each purchase. This means schools and programs are required to shop out their purchases to receive the best possible value for each purchase. “Best Value” is defined as having a combination that provides for 1) the goods that meet minimum specifications and requirements, 2) at the right time, 3) at the right place, 4) at the lowest cost. Taxpayers expect school employees to use public funds wisely.
Using Local Vendors/Contractors. When opportunities allow for purchases that produce the “best value” using local vendors/contractors, schools and programs are encouraged to use local contractors and vendors.
State Contracts. Schools and programs should also be mindful of competitively bid state contracts available at http://purchasing.utah.gov.