# Local Government (GLG)

## Title 12. Other Powers of Counties -- Generally

### Subtitle 3. Contracts and Competitive Bidding

#### Section 12-301

(a) This section applies only to commission counties.

(b) The provisions of Sec.Sec. 9-105 and 9-106 of this article apply to an act, an ordinance, or a resolution adopted under this section.

(c) The county commissioners shall:

  (1) establish a competitive bidding process for awarding contracts for services or the purchase of supplies if the contract exceeds $15,000;

  (2) require a bond in connection with a contract, regardless of the amount; and

  (3) if no bids are submitted in response to a request for bids, obtain the services or supplies in a manner that the county commissioners consider appropriate.

(d) In Somerset County, subsection (c) of this section does not apply to a contract solely for design or consultation services.

(e) In St. Mary's County, subsection (c) of this section applies only to a contract for services or the purchase of supplies if the contract exceeds $50,000.

#### Section 12-302

(a) In this section, "government organization" includes:

  (1) a county;

  (2) a board of education;

  (3) a municipality; or

  (4) a government cooperative purchasing organization.

(b) The County Commissioners of Garrett County may purchase goods and services through a contract entered into by a vendor and a government organization that does not participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement in which Garrett County is a member.

#### Section 12-303

(a) This section applies only to commission counties.

(b) When awarding a contract for services, the county commissioners of a county shall:

  (1) enter into a written contract; and

  (2) require the contractor to provide a performance bond for security in accordance with the terms and specifications of the contract.

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Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)