Frequently asked questions
Q. Who is V.A.L.U.E.?
A. They are us. V.A.L.U.E. is an organization made up of counties,
school
districts, cities, villages and special districts in the southeastern
Wisconsin
market area. Active membership includes:
Q. What is the
cost of
participation?
The out of pocket cost is $25.00 per
year. In addition, each member
contributes staff expertise and time, as they are able.
It is the philosophy of V.A.L.U.E. that this
participation is not in addition to our regular duties - cost reduction
through
cooperative purchasing is a part of our jobs.
Q. How
large is the staff of V.A.L.U.E.?
There is no paid staff. Administration
is by an elected Chairperson
and Treasurer, and an appointed Vice-Chairperson and Planning Committee. Currently there are 16 members to our
Planning Committee.
Q. Who
mails and receives the bids?
Each bid is coordinated by a
lead
agency. This agency is responsible for
reproducing, mailing, opening and tabulating the bid.
Award is determined by the responsible commodity workgroup.
Q. How
are out-of-state suppliers considered?
No differently than present. They
will receive an award if they are low
bid and can provide services as specified.
Q. Will
my current suppliers be given a chance to bid?
Yes - just furnish the name
and address to
the workgroup developing the specification.
Q. What
if my governing body will not authorize an award to the bidder selected
by
V.A.L.U.E.?
If the award is not authorized
due to a lack
of available funds, the specification provides for not entering into a
contract
with no penalty or obligation. However,
your contract with V.A.L.U.E. and the specifications both obligate your
jurisdiction to follow through with agreed commitments, i.e. the only
acceptable reason for withdrawing is a lack of funds.
Q. How do
I join?
By completing the Membership Application and
signing the Letter of Understanding.
Q. How do
I get more information?
Contact
Jean Kienzle, Elmbrook Schools, at 262-781‑3030 x 1141 or by email to: kienzlej@elmbrookschools.org
Q. What can
I do to assist?
Participate.
Your special needs and special expertise
need to be represented for all of our benefit.
We also need your volume - quantity is the basis of our success. And finally, spread the word among your
colleagues with other agencies - word of mouth is always the best
reference.
Q. How am
I informed about upcoming bids?
Through
e-mails and monthly newsletters. All
bids are also presented at our annual meeting.