The Purchasing Agent may authorize a department, office, or City agency to purchase supplies, services and equipment directly when he or she determines that direct purchasing can improve efficiency and/or reduce costs and is in the best overall interests of the City. All direct purchasing authorized by the Purchasing Agent under this section shall be carried out in compliance with the procedures established by this chapter and on such forms or through such purchasing mechanisms as shall be determined by the Purchasing Agent. Direct purchases may be effected through the use of procurement cards or other similar mechanisms. (Ord. 3400 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2899 § 1, 2003; Ord. 2766 § 1, 1998).