What happens if there is a tie bid?
Bids can be tied, even without the application of preferences. Occasionally, a tie arises because one or more preferences have been applied. When that happens, follow the same tie bid rules that apply in all other circumstances. Those rules are outlined in Section 11-35-1520(9). [11-35-1524(E)(4)] Example: Vendor A, a business located in Columbia, bids $100.00 for the Widget and claims the Resident Vendor Preference, a 7% preference. Vendor B, a business located in Atlanta, bids $93.00. When the preference is applied to Vendor A’s bid, the evaluated price is $93.00, which creates a tie bid situation.
