DOING BUSINESS WITH MAT
  
The Purchasing Department of the Transit Authority of the City of Omaha d/b/a Metro Area Transit (MAT) conducts purchasing transactions for the company's operations. Vendors are required to conduct their business directly with the Purchasing Department during business hours (8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday). By making an appointment in advance (402) 341-7560, Ext. 2270), you will ensure the personnel you wish to see will be available. You are welcome at MAT; we look forward to seeing you. MAT's Purchasing Department shall ensure that purchases of material, equipment and supplies are made at the lowest and best possible price after considering price, quality, applicability, availability, support service, pertinent laws and regulations. MAT purchases are made in the following manner:

INFORMAL COMPETITIVE BIDS:
  
Price quotations are secured from vendors and awarded to the lowest and best bidder for goods or services. The technique of obtaining price quotations is generally used when conditions are not appropriate for the use of sealed bids.


FORMAL COMPETITIVE BIDS:
  
Bids are publicly solicited and a contract is awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder; MAT reserves the right to reject any and all bids. The following requirements apply:

  1. The invitation for bids will be publicly advertised;


  2. The invitation for bids shall include any specifications and pertinent attachments and shall define the items or services sought;


  3. All bids will be publicly opened at the time and place prescribed in the invitation to bidders.
NON-COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT:
  
Sole source procurement is accomplished through solicitations or acceptance of a proposal from only one source, after determining competition is inadequate. Purchases may be made directly from a vendor in cases of emergency, specialized equipment or other unusual circumstances.
APPROVALS:
  
Approvals for contract awards for goods or services shall be initiated in accordance with the appropriate procurement method contained within the Company's purchasing procedures and/or Federal Transit Administration regulations as may be applicable.