Procurement Guiding Principles

National Institute of Governmental Purchasing logo

The District's Procurement Services staff are members of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing, Inc. (NIGP) and follow the values and guiding principles of public procurement outlined by the NIGP and provided below.

ACCOUNTABILITY

Taking ownership and being responsible to stakeholders for our actions…essential to preserve the public trust and protect the public interest.

Principles:

  • Apply sound business judgment.

  • Be knowledgeable of and abide by all applicable laws and regulations.

  • Be responsible stewards of public funds.

  • Maximize competition to the greatest extent practicable.

  • Practice due diligence.

  • Promote effective, economic, and efficient acquisition.

  • Support economic, social, and sustainable communities.

  • Use procurement strategies to optimize value to stakeholders.

 

ETHICS

Acting in a manner true to these values…essential to preserve the public’s trust.

Principles:

  • Act and conduct business with honesty and integrity, avoiding even the appearance of impropriety.

  • Maintain consistency in all processes and actions.

  • Meet the ethical standards of the profession.

 

IMPARTIALITY

Unbiased decision-making and action…essential to ensure fairness for the public good.

Principles:

  • Be open, fair, impartial, and non-discriminatory in all processes.

  • Treat suppliers equitably, without discrimination, and without imposing unnecessary constraints on the competitive market.

  • Use sound professional judgment within established legal frameworks to balance competing interests among stakeholders.

 

PROFESSIONALISM

Upholding high standards of job performance and ethical behavior… essential to balance diverse public interests.

Principles:

  • Be led by those with education, experience, and professional certification in public procurement.

  • Continually contribute value to the organization.

  • Continually develop as a profession through education, mentorship, innovation, and partnerships.

  • Develop, support, and promote the highest professional standards in order to serve the public good.

  • Seek continuous improvement through on-going training, education, and skill enhancement.

 

SERVICE

Obligation to assist stakeholders…essential to support the public good.

Principles:

  • Be a crucial resource and strategic partner within the organization and community.

  • Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders.

  • Develop collaborative partnerships to meet public needs.

  • Maintain a customer-service focus while meeting the needs, and protecting the interests, of the organization and the public.

 

TRANSPARENCY

Easily accessible and understandable policies and processes… essential to demonstrate responsible use of public funds.

Principles:

  • Exercise discretion in the release of confidential information.

  • Maintain current and complete policies, procedures, and records.

  • Provide open access to competitive opportunities.

  • Provide timely access to procurement policies, procedures, and records.