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.