How Does COTA Buy?
Most of the goods and services which COTA uses are obtained through informal and formal competitive bidding. COTA is exempt from paying federal, state and local sales taxes on goods. Tax exempt forms may be obtained by calling the Contracts/Procurement Department. Informal Bids Goods and services valued at less than $25,000 are procured by purchase order from the lowest most responsive and responsible bidder whose quotes are obtained by telephone, facsimile (fax) or mail. Formal Bids For goods and services over $25,000 Invitations to Bid or Requests for Proposals are solicited by mail and newspaper advertisement. A contract is awarded to the lowest most responsive and responsible bidder or to the proposer whose offer is the most advantageous to COTA with price and other factors considered by the Board of Trustees at their regular meetings, which are usually the fourth Wednesday of each month.
