Purchasing

The Purchasing section is responsible for implementation of the purchasing policy, competitive bidding, municipal stores, participation in public sector cooperative groups and administration of the purchasing card program.The Purchasing section works closely with the following organizations:

Best Value

The Purchasing section procures goods and services for Maple Ridge in accordance with the Purchasing Policy while representing the "best value" for the Maple Ridge and all its taxpayers. "Best Value" includes many characteristics including, but not limited to: acquisition cost, availability, suitability, procureability, serviceability, transportation, required training, warranty, design, environmental impact, overall life cycle cost implications and other significant applicable characteristics. With each individual purchase these characteristics can change. Lowest price can be "best value," but lowest price is not always the "best value." We look at the total cost of ownership, which may include, but is not limited to:
  • acquisition cost
  • delivery and shipping terms
  • disposal cost
  • environmental impact
  • maintenance cost
  • payment terms
  • performance
  • quality required
  • residual value
  • training cost
  • warranties

Regulatory Factors

The Purchasing section is committed to conducting business with fairness, probity and respect for all parties involved. Regulatory factors influencing the Purchasing section's policies and procedures include:
  • Local Government Act (previously known as the "Municipal Act")
  • City of Maple Ridge policies and procedures
  • Federal and Provincial tax laws
  • Excise and Customs regulations
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
  • Transportation of Hazardous Goods Act
  • CSA electrical regulations
  • Public sector policies and practices
  • North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
  • Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT)
  • New West Partnership Trade Agreement (NWPTA)
  • Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act