The Downtown Development Authority on June 25 adopted a short purchasing and gifting policy that clarifies director spending authority, gift acceptance and when competitive bids are required.

Under the new policy the director may approve incidental transactions up to $500 per transaction, so long as the total annual spending remains within the board‑approved fund category amount. The policy also allows board members and the director to accept noncash gifts valued up to $50 so long as the gift is not intended to influence a board decision.

The policy sets a competitive‑bidding requirement for purchases above $7,000 but lists exceptions when bids are not required, including unique sources, specialized artists or vendors and limited geographic availability. Audrey, the DDA director, said such exceptions would apply to projects like custom murals or where only one qualified provider exists.

Why it matters: The guidance formalizes routine purchasing practice for the director, creates transparency about gift acceptance limits, and establishes a clear dollar threshold for competitive bids while preserving flexibility for single‑source or specialty projects.

Board action: The board approved the policy by voice vote under Resolution DDA 25‑05 (policy P 25‑01). Staff said the policy will be applied when the board next finalizes its FY26 budget categories and will govern purchases and small‑value transactions throughout the year.

What’s next: The policy is in effect immediately. Staff will reference it in upcoming procurement and in the FY26 budget materials the board approved later in the meeting.