Noncompetitive methods.
Houston Code of Ordinances § 15-49
in effectSec. 15-49. - Noncompetitive methods.
Noncompetitive methods are acceptable only under specific circumstances, such as:
(1) Sole source. Procurements of supplies, equipment, goods or services may be made without the use of a competitive method if such supplies, equipment, goods, or services can only be obtained from a single source. The CPO shall promulgate procedures for the review of a sole source requested by an operating department These procedures shall address the evidence necessary to demonstrate that the unique specifications, qualities, or capabilities of the items substantiate a sole source exception.
(2) Emergency. The CPO may execute contracts without the use of a competitive method without prior approval of city council when procurements are necessary (i) due to a threat to public health or safety, (ii) for repairs to city property in order to protect against further loss or damage, (iii) to prevent or minimize serious disruption in city services, (iv) to ensure the integrity of city records, or (v) in the reasonable opinion of the CPO, whenever the best interests of the city is served. The CPO shall implement procedures to meet these requirements, and when practicable, conduct informal competition for the award of an emergency contract. Any emergency purchases made in excess of the threshold shall be submitted to city council for approval as soon as practicable.
(Ord. No. 2015-668, § 4(Exh. B), 7-8-2015)
Source: City of Houston, Code of Ordinances and City Charter (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/tx/houston/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COOR_CH15CO_ARTIIICOPR_S15-49NOMEFetched: 10/26/2026