Strategy for a municipal purchases of goods and services

This paper explores how the application of purchasing expertise may benefit municipal government operations. Municipalities are entrusted with public funds and have a responsibility to apply these resources in a cost effective manner for the benefit of all citizens within their jurisdiction. However, fiscal responsibility is not the only factor in municipal decisions. Municipalities are also entrusted with providing essential and non-essential services to the community. If these services are not delivered in a competent manner, risks may be introduced that would affect the community and local government. Or try: If these services are not delivered in a competent manner, the community and local government could be adversely affected. Recognizing that all organizations are constrained by limited resources and that municipalities are fiuther constrained by onerous legislative requirements and high citizen expectations, this paper analyzes purchasing options in this environment and identifies initiatives to improve performance.