Basic Principles of Local Government Purchasing

  • Chapel Hill, NC
    This course is also available online.

The April 2024 offering will be available both in-person and online at the School of Government.

This course is designed for new local government purchasing officials and covers basic principles and legal requirements for local government purchasing. 

Topics include the following:

  • Competitive bidding requirements for purchasing and construction contracting;
  • Purchasing ethics and conflicts of interest in public procurement;
  • Practical skills such as vendor relations, developing specifications, and preparing bid solicitations;
  • Purchasing policies and electronic bidding;
  • Decision analysis, motivational strategies, and effective communication;
  • Local government law overview, including open meetings and public records laws;
  • Budgeting and fiscal control;
  • Surplus property disposal; and
  • Tips for success from experienced local government purchasing professionals.

 

Additional information

The 2021 Agenda is on the Materials tab.

All course materials including logistical details are provided in Canvas, a learning management system. Please click the link below for detailed instructions on setting up your Canvas account. If you've already set up an account for this or for another School of Government course, click HERE to log in to Canvas.

Canvas Instructions

For all registration questions, resetting passwords, or login issues please contact:

Dale Zuckert

Assistant Registrar
919.966.4414
For questions regarding course details, including location, schedule, materials, and continuing education credits, please contact:

Carla Stowe

Program Manager, Law and Finance Group
919.843.8176