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Group Purchasing Information

Dear Washington Fire Chiefs Association and FireRescue GPO users:

As you may have heard, a member fire district received a Management Letter from the State Auditor’s Office because they made a large purchase using a RFP process awarded on best value rather than a lowest responsive bidder sealed bid process.  The purchase was made using a contract from the NPPGov/FireRescue GPO cooperative. Most coops across the country use what is called a “best value award from an RFP” process as opposed to “lowest responsive bidder to a sealed bid solicitation” 

Not all lawyers agree with the State Auditor’s recent legal interpretation, however, we all agree that all purchases must follow state law.  It is best that your fire district attorney be consulted before making large purchases, especially costs over $50,000. Purchases under that amount through the FireRescue GPO are NOT an issue. Please refer to Attorney Brian Snure’s Purchasing Flow Chart for more information. If you are considering “piggybacking” on an existing contract you may also use the MRSC purchasing tool to assist you in compliance. http://mrsc.org/getdoc/95432b50-1fce-4c26-9659-7f889bdab254/Purchasing-and-Bidding-Intergovernmental-Purchases.aspx 

The Washington Fire Chiefs is considering a request for a formal legal interpretation from the state AGO and is considering an amendment to purchasing laws in the next legislative session to serve you better. As this issue resolves we will provide periodic updates.   

If you have questions regarding NPPGov or FireRescue GPO, please contact Crosby Grindle, NPPGov President (206) 494-4567, crosby.grindle@nppgov.com or Bruce Busch, NPPGov Legal Counsel (206) 494-4556, bruce.busch@mynpp.com with any questions.  
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Posted: Jun 6, 2017,
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