Purchasing and Stores must at all times maintain an atmosphere of cooperation and professional conduct.  Professional conduct includes being knowledgeable about products, markets, and the operations of City departments and adhering to ethical business practices.  Unacceptable conduct includes accepting free gifts and entertainment, giving preferential treatment, or engaging in any activity which causes an appearance of bias in the purchasing function.

It is essential that all bidders, vendors, and City personnel be treated in a fair and responsible manner.  It is the responsibility of the entire purchasing staff and all City employees who engage in the public procurement process to assure that the needs of the City are placed before personal convenience or personal preferences and that good public relations practices are maintained.

Every City employee depends on the Purchasing and Stores Division to some extent in order to accomplish his or her job effectively.  Certain City employees rely on the services of this division heavily, especially those involved in expediting and materials management.  There is a mutual responsibility to maintain trust, communications, and responsiveness between the Purchasing and Stores Division and all City departments.  All City departments are encouraged to use this division as a problem solving resource and the Purchasing and Stores staff is likewise encouraged to accept the material problems of the City departments which they serve as their own.