Procurement Services Unit – Hartford, CT

Procurement Services Unit

City Contracting and Vendor Relations

The Procurement Services Unit, located in Suite 100 of Hartford City Hall at 550 Main Street, is the central purchasing authority for the City of Hartford. This division is responsible for the acquisition of all supplies, materials, equipment, and services required by municipal departments to function effectively. Operating under the Department of Finance, the Procurement Unit ensures that all city purchasing activities are conducted in a fair, open, and competitive manner, adhering to strict local ordinances and state statutes. The primary goal of the office is to obtain the best value for public funds while maintaining transparency and integrity in the bidding process. The unit manages the entire procurement lifecycle, from the issuance of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Invitations to Bid (ITBs) to contract negotiation and vendor performance monitoring. They serve as the main point of contact for businesses seeking to work with the city, providing guidance on registration requirements, insurance compliance, and the submission of electronic bids.

Vendor Opportunities and MWBE Certification

A key focus of the Procurement Services Unit is promoting economic development through inclusive contracting. The office actively encourages participation from local, small, and minority-owned businesses.

• MWBE Certification: The unit manages the certification process for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE). Certified businesses may qualify for set-aside contracts and preference points in the bidding process.
• Bid Solicitations: All active solicitations are posted publicly. The office utilizes online platforms to disseminate bid documents, allowing vendors to download specifications and submit responses electronically.
• Contract Compliance: The staff monitors active contracts to ensure that vendors are meeting their obligations, including adherence to living wage ordinances and affirmative action requirements.
• Surplus Auctions: The division also handles the disposal of surplus city property, often through public auctions, ensuring that obsolete assets are liquidated efficiently.

Office Access and Hours

The Procurement Services Unit is accessible to the public during regular City Hall business hours. While many services, such as bid retrieval and vendor registration, are available online, the physical office remains open for document drop-offs and bid openings. Visitors to City Hall must pass through security screening at the main entrance. The office is located on the first floor, making it easily accessible for vendors and members of the public.