Frequently Asked Questions

• How does a vendor get added to the Counties bidder's list?
  To become an active vendor with the County go to Vendor Registration on the Purchasing home page, complete and return as instructed. Or, phone 828-250-4800 to request that a Vendor Registration Form be mailed to you.
  
  
• What about minority and women-owned vendors?
  Buncombe County is pro-active in encouraging purchases of goods and services from certified minority and women-owned business enterprises as well as soliciting their participation in County construction bids.
  
  
• How do minority and women-owned vendors obtain MWBW certification?
  Woman and Minority owned business enterprises may obtain certification through the City of Asheville Minority Business Program. Please contact Brenda Mills at (828) 232-4566.

Certification can also be achieved through the North Carolina Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses.


• Does the County pay sales tax?
  Yes, the County is required to pay North Carolina state and local sales taxes. Our purchase orders do not show these taxes; however, they should be included on your invoices.
  
  
• Does the County participate in state contracts?
  Yes, the State of North Carolina allows all local governments to participate in any of their contracts for the purchase of supplies and equipment. See the North Carolina Division of Purchase and Contracts website for information regarding these contracts. For additional government resources, see the NCINFO website.
  
  
• When is the next surplus equipment auction?
  Currently, Buncombe County is selling surplus furniture, equipment, and vehicles on the Internet via www.govdeals.com. To bid you must register with govdeals by choosing "New Members Register Now" on their site. There is no need to register to look at available surplus items. If you choose Advanced Search, then choose the seller you are interested in, their items will be available.