The Department and its Mission

All requests for supplies, materials, equipment and services needed by Shelby County Government must be approved and processed through the Purchasing Department. Goods, supplies, equipment and services are secured by either a Request for Bids or Request for Proposals to ensure that Shelby County receives quality goods and services for the lowest and best price.

IT IS THE PURCHASING DEPARTMENT'S MISSION TO:

1. Procure supplies and services of the right quality, in the proper quantities, at the right time, and from the right source.
2. Conserve public funds by reducing costs and improving the quality of materials purchased.
3. Improve the speed of delivery of goods and services to the Department by predetermining  their needs through system contracting or other appropriate means.
4. Achieve a high degree of cooperation with the using Departments and Offices.
5. Maintain good records and control.
6. Develop good supplier relationships.
7. Develop, motivate and train personnel to fulfill the above objectives.

Mission
Shelby County Government's Purchasing Department is responsible for the procurement of products and services under the administration of the County Mayor, the Legislative Body, the County Board of Commissioners, and other Elected Officials. It is the intent of the Purchasing Department to procure quality products and services at the lowest possible cost. Every purchase is made with the County's best interest in mind while providing all suppliers with a fair and equal opportunity to conduct business with County Government.

Professional Affiliation
We are members of and subscribe to the principles and standards of purchasing practices advocated by the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing and the Institute for Supply Management.

Vendor Sales Calls
Vendor sales personnel are not to make sales calls direct to other County personnel and departments without prior authorization by the Purchasing Department. Our office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and we welcome your visits. We ask that you call in advance to avoid any inconvenience in meeting with the appropriate purchasing personnel.