After tabling the item last week, the Washington County Board of Supervisors approved changes to the county’s procurement policy during their meeting Tuesday.
County Engineer Jacob Thorius commented that he changed some of the wording of the policy after talking with County Attorney John Gish, which now includes that competitive pricing is “not required” instead of “encouraged” for purchases of less than $10,000. Thorius also pointed out a change after discussing with County Auditor Dan Widmer that purchases exceeding $75,000 shall require the Board of Supervisors approval, rather than $20,000 that was previously included. A revised procurement policy was sought as the county is looking to apply to the Iowa Department of Homeland Security to reimburse funds spent for cleanup following last year’s derecho.