I need to buy some supplies.
I can get the items from an instate source.
I can get the items online from an out-of-state source and save 25%
The funding source for the purchase is 100% state tax dollars-
As a tax payer, would you rather see a state agency get the cheapest price, or keep the money in-state no matter if it costs additional $$$ ?
cheapest price.
Cheapest is not always bestest.
I am a believer in supporting local folks.
What does your state law say regarding this? In my time in public administration, there were instances that dictated that one must go with the lowest price/bidder, except when the price was within 5% and then a choice based on value and other considerations can be made.
Unless Montana is different from Texas, you may be required to go out for bids, even on equipment. Personally, as a tax payer, if you save 25% now, and have to spend it again in a year based on poor quality, then I'd say buy locally and spend a bit more now. It's very important that you understand your state laws regarding purchasing with public monies.
> As a tax payer, would you rather see a state agency get the cheapest price, or keep the money in-state no matter if it costs additional $$$ ?
In state.
You didn't mention service. Frequently a more local source will provide some form of personalized service and that is worth something.
As a tax payer - in state
In general - local (whether in state or not)
> In my time in public administration, there were instances that dictated that one must go with the lowest price/bidder, except when the price was within 5% and then a choice based on value and other considerations can be made.
[sarcasm]WHOA thems some big words coming out of western Louisianna!! Havent you heard us Texans don't got no culture, much less the 'bility to figger percense and considerattentions and stuff.
[/sarcasm]:-P
Mr. Hand
[sarcasm]Wasn't Texas, just DFW[/sarcasm] 😉
> I need to buy some supplies.
>
> I can get the items from an instate source.
> I can get the items online from an out-of-state source and save 25%
>
> The funding source for the purchase is 100% state tax dollars-
>
> As a tax payer, would you rather see a state agency get the cheapest price, or keep the money in-state no matter if it costs additional $$$ ?
I would rather use in-state sources as long as the cost is within a few percent of the cheapest out-of-state price.
Check the specs. Maybe they are too loose and maybe the specs need to be written better. Large price swings for items perceived to be the same, may be a problem in perception that tighter specs can show the difference.
Poll- Buying SHTUFF (Roadie)
> > In my time in public administration, there were instances that dictated that one must go with the lowest price/bidder, except when the price was within 5% and then a choice based on value and other considerations can be made.
>
> [sarcasm]WHOA thems some big words coming out of western Louisianna!! Havent you heard us Texans don't got no culture, much less the 'bility to figger percense and considerattentions and stuff.
> [/sarcasm]:-P
What can I say Roadie, I'm an overachiever. 🙂
Mr. Hand (Mr. Fleming)
> [sarcasm]Wasn't Texas, just DFW[/sarcasm] 😉
I'll have you know that I live nowhere near the metromess abbreviated as DFW! 🙂 We live in GOD's country in the piney woods in a county of 55,000 people thank you very much! 🙂
Unless the local vendor is being greedy and trying to take advantage of limited supply and demand to overprice items. Buying local is definitely better for your neighbors, friends and local economy.