This bill enhances the competitive contracting process for local contracting units and boards of education in New Jersey, allowing them to procure specialized goods and services without public bidding when costs exceed the bid threshold. It introduces new purposes for competitive contracting, including the provision of goods and services related to Class I and Class II renewable energy, and mandates adherence to guidelines set by the Board of Public Utilities. Additionally, the bill expands the capabilities of county colleges to utilize competitive contracting for a variety of services, such as maintenance, custodial, groundskeeping, consulting, and grant writing, thereby increasing their procurement flexibility.

Key amendments in the bill include the specification of eligible services for competitive contracting, such as proprietary computer software, recreation or social services, energy conservation education, and telecommunications services. The bill outlines the initiation process for competitive contracting, requiring a resolution from the board of trustees and the preparation of request for proposals documentation. It establishes criteria for evaluating and ranking proposals, allows contracts to last up to five years, and ensures compliance with existing laws regarding corporate ownership and equal employment opportunity. Furthermore, it mandates notification to affected employees about potential competitive contracting and allows for their input, while clarifying that contracts made by the Division of Purchase and Property will also bind county colleges.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:11-4.1, 18A:18A-4.1, 18A:64A-25.2, 18A:64A-25.9, 18A:64A-25.28