Purchasing Networking Meeting (10.20.26): What's New in Purchasing (Recording)-Recording - 10.20.26

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Joy Kuhlman and Jacob Costolo opened the school year’s WASBO Purchasing and Warehouse meeting, encouraging participants to share questions and resources.<br /><br />The meeting covered several procurement updates. Beginning January 1, Washington’s small works roster threshold rises from $350,000 to $530,000, then increases by $30,000 annually through 2030, reaching $650,000. The federal simplified acquisition threshold remains $350,000, so projects involving federal funds must follow the more restrictive limit. Participants discussed planning around posting dates, updating policies and procedures, and documenting estimates and bid evaluations.<br /><br />They also reviewed Washington’s sales-tax exemption for school districts, ESDs, and libraries. The required vendor-specific form should be retained by both parties, with districts establishing processes for completing, tracking, and renewing certificates and coordinating with accounts payable. Participants noted uncertainty around some purchases, including software, digital goods, and P-card transactions, and emphasized checking guidance and documenting decisions.<br /><br />A new law concerning independent contractors in certain finishing trades was also discussed, along with the importance of coordination between purchasing, facilities, and other departments.<br /><br />The group exchanged ideas about AI, tax flags in procurement systems, and online purchasing platforms. Puyallup shared its use of Walmart Business through an Omnia contract. The next meeting is scheduled for January 19 at 10 a.m.

Keywords

WASBO Purchasing

Warehouse meeting

small works roster

procurement updates

sales-tax exemption

vendor-specific form

independent contractors

AI in procurement

online purchasing platforms