Ordinance 26-04: Authorize to advertise for a public hearing on proposed Ordinance 26-04, An Ordinance Amending the City of Roswell's Purchasing Procedures. (Nairn-Mahan)

Initiated by: Councilor Edward Heldenbrand / Internal Auditor Judy Scharmer / City Manager

The original proposed ordinance by Councilor Heldenbrand sought to clarify what procurements and contracts need to be presented to the council, when, and how the City manager may promulgate policies and procedures. Since the initial drafting of the proposed ordinance, the City hired an Internal Auditor. As part of her services, the auditor shall "[c]ommunicate with City Leadership, including the City Manager, the Mayor, the Finance and Audit Committee, any identified deficiencies and weaknesses, and make recommendations for improvements on a regular basis." At the February Governing Body meeting, at the request of the City Manager, this proposed ordinance was referred by the Governing Body to the Legal Committee for consideration in light of the Internal Auditor's suggestions. The Internal Auditor's initial report to the Audit Committee is in draft, but due to the timing and subject matter of the proposed ordinance, the City Manager placed the suggestions before the legal committee.

No financial impact at this time.

Both proposals are legally sufficient.

This item was referred to the Legal Committee by the Governing Body. This is the first time the Auditor's suggestions will be presented to the Legal Committee. The Legal Committee approved 4-1 at its meeting on February 26, 2026. The City Council voted 6-5, with Mayor Jennings voting in favor to break the tie. At the April 9, 2026, City Council meeting, this item was referred back to the Finance Committee while the City’s Internal Auditor works with Management to develop and review relevant policies and procedures.

Given the Internal Auditor's recommendations and justification, the staff recommends adoption of the auditor's proposal.