Kentucky public school districts procure under Bid Law, KRS 424.260, by default. However, a local board of education may choose to adopt the applicable sections (KRS 45A.345 to 45A.460) of the Kentucky Model Procurement Code (KMPC), as defined by KRS 45A.343. Local boards of education should always consult their board attorney before a final decision, but a short description of each method is found below.
Bid Law, KRS 424.360
Bid Law requires less record keeping but also has little flexibility.
KMPC, KRS 45A.345-460
Model Procurement requires more written documentation but also provides more procurement options.
The Kentucky Department of Education, Division of District Support encourages school districts to use KMPC because it has a highly flexible framework and establishes a set of ethical standards. KMPC provides more in-depth statutory guidance.
To assist any local board of education in adopting KMPC a checklist and template letter a superintendent may use to request the adoption of KMPC from his/her local board of education.
Checklist For Switching From Bid Law to Kentucky Model Procurement Code
Template Letter Requesting Adoption of Kentucky Model Procurement Code
Marshall Smith
Office of Finance and Operations
Division of District Support
300 Sower Blvd., 4th Floor
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 564-3846 Ext. 4463
Fax (502) 564-6771
marshall.smith@education.ky.gov