Using a roster is an alternative contracting process that most Washington public agencies can follow to more efficiently fulfill small to medium contracting needs. Although using a roster process can expedite projects, there are still contracting procedural requirements that should be followed based on the type of roster and in accordance with internal agency policies.
Roster Authorization
All state agencies and local governments with public works authority are authorized to use MRSC’s statewide small works roster (RCW 39.04.151-.152).
State law also authorizes the use of a vendor list (vendor roster) for purchases (RCW 39.04.190). Cities, counties, and some special purpose districts – for example, fire protection districts, public hospital districts, public utility districts (PUDs), and water-sewer districts – are specifically authorized to use this process. However, some special purpose districts are not authorized.
Public agencies will need to consult their enabling statutes to confirm roster eligibility, or you can use MRSC’s Find Your Contracting Requirements tool.
Statutory Guidelines
- Small Public Works Roster
The statewide Small Works Roster (SWR) may be used for projects under $350,000, including construction, building, renovation, remodeling, alteration, repair, or improvement of real property as referenced by RCW 39.04.151-.152. For more information on the required SWR bidding processes, see MRSC’s Small Works Roster Manual. For any federally funded projects the rules are stricter, so consult your legal counsel and federal grant administrator to determine the appropriate contracting method. - Consultant Roster
The Consultant Roster may be used for small to medium “professional services” contracts under chapter 39.80 RCW (architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and land surveying), as well as for “personal services” such as accounting, legal services, non-engineering planning services, meeting facilitation, etc. - Vendor Roster
The Vendor Roster may be used for the purchase of supplies, materials, and equipment not being purchased in connection with public works contracts, as referenced in RCW 39.04.190 and agency statutes. This also includes “purchased services” and maintenance services that do not fall under the definition of “small works.” Examples of purchased services – some of which may require prevailing wages – include janitorial services, landscape maintenance, vehicle repair/maintenance, and security services.
Purchasing and Bidding Information
For more information about public procurement processes generally in Washington State, see MRSC’s Procurement & Public Works resources.