Contracts, Bids and RFPs

The City of Rochester procures goods and services through two different processes, depending upon legal requirements. Procurement requiring competitive bidding, such as for commodities and public works contracts, are administered by the Bureau of Purchasing. Procurement of professional services, such as engineering and design services, is through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process administered by various operating departments.

Competitive Bidding Process

The City of Rochester purchases goods and services by soliciting competitive bids through formal advertisements and/or requests for quotations (RFQ). The bid(s) are awarded to the bidder(s) who submits the lowest price; is responsive (offers what the City wants to purchase); and is responsible (has the resources-experience, finances, stock, etc., to be able to perform the contract and has a satisfactory record of completing contracts).

For more information, please see links below which include the word ‘Purchasing.’

Request for Proposal (RFP) Process

Professional service agreements are contracted for services provided by individuals or organizations that have special licenses, technical skills, training or expertise, and where the nature of the services provided are difficult to specify in a competitive bidding document. When a professional service agreement is needed, the City department requiring the services will issue an RFP, review proposals, and recommended a selection to the Mayor. City Council approval is required for agreements over $10,000. Professional service agreements are not administered by the City’s Purchasing Bureau.

Currently active Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are be listed below with links starting with ‘RFP.’

BidNet

The City of Rochester participates in the Empire State Purchasing Group using BidNet Direct as its electronic bidding service. All new City bids are posted and available only on the BidNet website. From the BidNet site, vendors will be able to:

  • View and download all bid documents and addenda (except for public works bid documents) at no cost.
  • Find bid results and contract award information
  • Submit bids electronically for most City bids (excluding public works bids).

For an annual fee of $89.95, BidNet also offers vendors the option to receive email notifications of any upcoming City bids. Please go to www.bidnetdirect.com//city-of-rochester for more information. 

 

Selling to the City of Rochester

Interested in selling your company’s goods or services to the City of Rochester? Our brochure Selling to the City of Rochester provides useful information about how do get opportunities to do business with the City. Find it here>>