IL HB2473

Contracts for supplies, materials, or work exceeding $20,000 must be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder after competitive bidding, unless exempted under specific circumstances.

Board of trustees is not required to accept bids that fail to meet established specifications, terms of delivery, quality, and serviceability requirements.

Ten exemptions from competitive bidding exist, including professional services, equipment maintenance with manufacturers, data processing and telecommunications contracts, utility services, and single-source procurements.

Emergency expenditure contracts are exempt from competitive bidding when approved by a 3/4 vote of board members.

Bid advertisements must be published at least 10 days in advance in a daily newspaper, with sealed bids opened publicly; bidders must receive at least 3 days notice of the bid opening time and place.

Fire protection districts may participate in joint governmental or nongovernmental purchasing programs that include competitive solicitation and procurement procedures for contracts exceeding $20,000.