Bill > HB2853

This bill amends three different acts related to local government districts (Conservation District Act, Downstate Forest Preserve District Act, and Park District Code) to raise the threshold for competitive bidding from $30,000 to $50,000. Specifically, the bill requires that for contracts involving expenditures over $50,000 (or a lower amount if specified by board policy), districts must solicit sealed competitive bids and open them publicly, ensuring transparency in the procurement process. For park districts, the bill mandates that these competitive bids must be opened by a park board member or employee at a public bid opening where the contents of the bids are announced, and each bidder must receive at least 3 days' notice of the bid opening. The bill maintains existing exceptions to competitive bidding for certain types of contracts, such as those requiring specialized professional skills, emergency expenditures, or utility services. By raising the bidding threshold, the bill aims to provide local districts with more flexibility in smaller contract purchases while still maintaining oversight and competitive pricing for larger expenditures. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2853&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104