Purchasing - Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How to request your company be added to the "Vendor List" for Montgomery Public Schools?
A. You should send a written correspondence to the Purchasing Department that specifically requests that your company be added to the "Vendor List" for each commodity for which your company wishes to receive notice of solicitation for quotes or bids.
Q. Is there a geographical preference for local vendors that conduct business in Montgomery, Alabama?
A. In accordance with the Alabama Bid Law, Montgomery Public Schools may extend a three percent (3%) preference to any bidder that has obtained a business license and maintains a physical presence within the jurisdictional boundaries that make-up Montgomery Public Schools. This geographical preference may not be extended to certain types of commodities or solicitations for bids or quotes; i.e., Child Nutrition Program.
Q. How are bids and contracts awarded?
A. Bids are awarded on the basis of certain criteria as prescribed in the Alabama Bid Law; i.e., quality of goods, conformity to specifications, poor performance, and compatibility with existing equipment, etc.
Q. Is Montgomery Public Schools required to accept the lowest bid?
A. No, only the lowest responsible and responsive bidder in accordance with evaluation criteria as prescribed in the Alabama Bid Law.
Q. Who should I contact if I have a question?
A. Visit our staff page for contact information.
Q. Is Montgomery Public Schools a tax-exempt organization?
A. Yes, as accorded by State of Alabama statue and regulation, Montgomery Public Schools is exempted from sales and use taxes for tangible personal property for use in the operation of its schools. A letter of certification is available on the Purchasing Department’s homepage.