PURPOSE

The primary purpose of the Purchasing Division is to support the other City departments by procuring the goods, materials and services required to provide the many services and programs offered by the City.

  AUTHORITY

Article II, Chapter 6 of the Carson Municipal Code provides for the establishment of the position of Purchasing Manager and further describes the rules under which the purchasing function for the City is to be conducted.  Pursuant to the Carson Municipal Code most all City purchases are made by purchase order.  Businesses are advised that the delivery of any product or service should not be made without first obtaining a City of Carson purchase order or at the very least a City of Carson purchase order number issued by the City's Purchasing Division.

Basic Purchasing Requirements of the City of Carson

The City's fiscal year begins July 1st and ends June 30th.

• Purchases of less than $1,000 in a single fiscal year do not require a Purchase Order or bids.
• Purchases of less than $5,000 in a single fiscal year require a Purchase Order, but no bids.
• Purchases of less than $25,000 in a single fiscal year require a Purchase Order and at least 3 informal quotes.
• Purchases of $25,000 or more typically require an advertised Request for Proposals or Invitation for Bids and a contract.

1. Has a headquarter, primary or branch office within the City, which was established prior to the City inviting bids for the respective procurement, and
2. Possesses a current business license and certificate of occupancy, and
3. Is certified by the State Department of General Services as a Small Business.