How can public entities engage in cooperative purchasing?

Public entities can engage in cooperative purchasing by participating in agreements established by the State or county. This method allows various entities to pool their purchasing power, leading to efficiency and potential cost savings. When public entities band together under established agreements, they can benefit from economies of scale, obtain better pricing, and streamline the procurement process by using pre-negotiated contracts.

In New Jersey, the cooperation among local governments and other public agencies through shared services or cooperative purchasing programs is encouraged and can simplify the procurement process while adhering to legal requirements. These agreements are often initiated to maximize resources and improve service delivery across multiple jurisdictions.