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– Editorial
The Imperial Irrigation District hosted a Vendor Orientation Workshop on Feb. 12 to help businesses understand how to become approved vendors and compete for IID contracting opportunities.
Attendees received detailed guidance on vendor registration, procurement requirements, and the steps necessary to conduct business with IID. The workshop also addressed bid opportunities, surplus property information, licensing, bonding and insurance requirements, as well as frequently asked questions.
Jennifer Goodsell, general services manager for the Imperial Irrigation District’s General Services Department, said the agency is focused on helping local businesses better understand how to work with a public utility.
“What most people don’t realize is that IID is always in search of local vendors and businesses to work with,” Goodsell said. “Because we are a public agency, there are specific requirements, and many businesses aren’t familiar with them. This event serves as vendor outreach—an open house where people can ask questions, have one-on-one interaction with the staff who handle purchasing and contracting, and learn who they need to connect with to provide goods or services.”
Goodsell explained that contracting requirements vary depending on the type of work. Construction projects exceeding $25,000 must meet state bonding requirements, and licensing requirements depend on whether the work involves specialized construction, engineering, or other technical services. IID typically issues public solicitations through its online procurement platform, PlanetBids, where vendors and interested parties can register to receive notifications of bid opportunities, review requirements, and submit proposals. Contracts are awarded based on the lowest responsible bid or the best value to the district, she said.
For suppliers of goods, Goodsell noted that businesses are connected with the appropriate purchasing staff and compete through the district’s established procurement process. She added that IID provides a 5% local vendor preference in formal solicitations for businesses that hold a water or power account within the district’s service area.
“We want to do business with our local vendors,” she said.
Goodsell also said that surplus items no longer needed by the district, including office furniture, tools, and equipment, are made available to the public at reduced prices through IID’s website. Individuals, employees, and businesses may view available items, submit bids, and purchase awarded property. She noted that commonly available surplus materials include wooden cable spools, filing cabinets, desks, and other equipment, providing community members access to functional goods at discounted rates.
Hector Cervantes, project manager at Imperial Trucking LLC, said he attended the outreach effort to better understand vendor requirements and ensure his company’s compliance.
“I’m already on the vendor list, but I want to make sure I have everything completed,” Cervantes said. He added that he is seeking guidance on procurement processes, including registration and participation through the PlanetBids system, for both transportation services and related construction work. Cervantes emphasized that local contractors bring familiarity with regional conditions and can respond quickly to urgent needs, particularly during storms and other emergencies.
