Discuss, consider, and take appropriate action on amending the Purchasing requirement to obtain three (3) quotes by increasing the threshold from $2,000 to $5,000.

Currently three (3) quotes are required for purchases over $2,000. On 9/12/17 Court approved an increase in the threshold requiring County Judge's approval from $2,000 to $5,000, which is consistent with the Williamson County capital asset limit.  This action ensured larger purchases remain subject to County Judge review and approval. After monitoring procurements since the increase and based on departmental purchasing history, Purchasing is recommending raising the quote threshold to $5,000 also.  Review of purchase order data from the past three fiscal years indicates the majority of purchase orders issued (approx. 75%) are for purchases under $5,000. Increasing the quote threshold will allow for greater efficiencies in the purchasing process for user departments while continuing the additional approval requirement of larger purchases.  This change will apply to both purchase orders and procurement card purchases; however, no changes will be made to individual user limits by this action.  Departments will still be accountable for compliance with their approved budget.  Legal has been consulted and approved this recommendation.