Agenda Item
4d) Discussion and Possible Action Including 1) Introduction and Waive First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Sections of Mendocino County Code Chapter 2.32 - Purchasing Agent Relating to the Powers and Duties Delegated to the Purchasing Agent and Other Officials, Including an Increase in the Contract Signature Authority of the Purchasing Agent from Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000) to Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($75,000); and 2) Possible Direction to Staff Regarding Proposed Revisions to Mendocino County Policy No. 1 - Purchasing, Leasing, and Contracting Policy
(Sponsor: Executive Office)
I strongly oppose increasing the Department Head’s contract signature authority from $25,000 to $50,000 and the Purchasing Agent’s authority from $50,000 to $75,000. Raising these limits would reduce oversight by the Board of Supervisors and diminish transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
The potential for waste, misuse, or even the appearance of impropriety far outweighs any administrative convenience this change might provide. Our policies should remain clear, consistent, and firmly rooted in the protection of public trust.
Instead of expanding individual authority, the County should focus on maintaining a streamlined, well-defined policy framework, simplifying and clarifying the Purchasing Policy, removing unnecessary or confusing language, and ensuring the Purchasing Handbook is updated annually as a companion document. This approach would enhance efficiency and accountability without weakening oversight.