Metro purchases goods and services locally when possible. Purchases range from operating supplies to professional services. Contract opportunities for services include construction, maintenance and repair, engineering, consulting, food, training and various types of planning.
Metro’s contracting and procurement practices are governed by the State of Oregon’s Public Contracting Code and Metro administrative rules. Contracts are awarded through open, competitive bidding, in full compliance with all applicable regulations.
These solicitations require contacting at least three firms to provide written quotes, bids or proposals. Metro must also offer these contracting opportunities to women-, minority-, service-disabled veteran-business enterprises, or emerging small businesses. These request for quotes, request for bids and requests for proposals are posted to the Oregon Procurement Information Network (ORPIN).
Invitations to bid and requests for proposals are publicly advertised in local papers and posted to ORPIN.
For a quote or bid, Metro must award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. For a proposal, Metro awards the contract to the proposer submitting the highest ranked proposal, with cost being one of the criteria considered.
Maintain legal aspects of business to enter into contracts and contracts and transact business in the state of Oregon.
Demonstrate compliance with Metro’s Equal Employment and Nondiscrimination Clause, as outlined in solicitation documents.
Get COBID certified as a minority-owned business, woman-owned business, service disabled veteran-owned business, or emerging small business.
Attend Metro’s annual Small Business Open House event in February.
Scan the Portland Business Tribune and various community newspapers for Metro bid opportunities.
Network with small business associations such as Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs, Business Diversity Institute and others.
Submit quotes and bids to the Metro reception desk prior to the solicitation closing date and time. This requirement is strictly enforced.
Be a responsive, responsible bidder or proposer.
Make sure your bid and proposal documents are complete and contain all requirements and information, including any forms requested in the solicitation document.
Double check your documents before submitting.
Bids and quotes for goods should be submitted on a freight on board basis: suppliers own goods while in transit and are responsible for loss or damages prior to delivery. Prices offered must include all shipping and handling, with goods becoming the property of Metro upon acceptance of delivery.
Standard public contract – Used for standard agreements not covered by other contracts. Includes all trade-type services such as landscape, plumbing and electrical work, goods and related services, and equipment purchase or servicing.
Personal services – Also known as professional services. Includes tasks such as consulting, instruction, research and design.
Construction agreement – Used for public improvements, including major construction, reconstruction or renovation of Metro’s property. Includes general conditions that guide the project.
Goods and supply – Used for ongoing purchases of goods and supplies for a given period where unit prices are in effect.
The Federal Trade Commission requires businesses to have an identity theft program in place to protect charge account customers.