In a joint purchasing system, who is responsible for the contract with the vendor?

In a joint purchasing system, the lead agency is responsible for the contract with the vendor. This structure is designed to streamline procurement processes and enhance efficiency by having one agency take the lead in negotiating and managing the contract. The lead agency handles the procurement process, which includes researching supplier options, negotiating terms and conditions, and placing the final order.

This arrangement benefits the individual members of the joint purchasing group, as they can take advantage of the collective buying power and better terms negotiated by the lead agency. By centralizing the contracting responsibility, the lead agency can ensure consistency in the procurement process and maintain accountability for the contract's overall execution.

Other options involve scenarios where individual members or other entities might take on contractual responsibilities, which can complicate the purchasing process and lead to various inefficiencies. Thus, the responsibility falling solely on the lead agency allows for a clearer, more organized system and facilitates better management of the joint purchasing agreement.