19A-6.001. Division Intent and Declaration of Policy; Purpose

(1) The public trust and associated powers granted to the Division in Sections 215.57-215.83, F.S., make it imperative that the highest standards of conduct apply to Governing Board members and employees when engaged in decisions relative to the issuance of bonds, the award of a Master Equipment Financing Agreement or the review or selection of the service providers and underwriters who may receive financial benefits relating to the issuance of bonds, the award of a Master Equipment Financing Agreement, and other programs of the Division.

(2) The public has a right to know that decisions relative to the issuance of bonds, the award of a Master Equipment Financing Agreement or the review or selection of service providers and underwriters by the Governing Board are not based upon considerations other than the merits of the proposal submitted in response to the applicable solicitation document.

(3) Service providers and underwriters wishing to provide services, underwrite bonds or be considered for the award of a Master Equipment Financing Agreement must have notice of the procedures and conditions applied by the Division to ensure fair and open competition and to avoid even the appearance or perception of impropriety in the selection process.

(4) It is, therefore, the intent and policy of the Division under this chapter to protect the public trust by avoiding even the appearance or perception that favoritism, special dealing or political considerations are involved in decisions to issue bonds, award a Master Equipment Financing Agreement or select service providers and underwriters by the Governing Board.

(5) The purpose of this chapter is to describe the practices and procedures of the Division with respect to the selection of service providers and underwriters. This chapter applies to the operations of the Division and the conduct of its Governing Board members and employees with respect to service providers and underwriters retained or selected by the Governing Board.

Rulemaking Authority 215.62(5), 287.064(8) FS. Law Implemented 215.64(5), 215.68(5), 287.064 FS. History–New 12-3-91, Formerly 13K-6.001, Amended 5-25-95.