Which of the following is NOT a step in bidding a contract under Chapter 30, 39M?

Bidding a contract under Chapter 30, 39M involves a defined series of steps that public agencies must follow to ensure transparency and fairness in the procurement process. Among these steps, the correct answer highlights that negotiating prices is not typically a part of this process. The goal of a bidding procedure under these laws is to allow for competitive bidding, where sealed bids are submitted by contractors, and the awarding entity evaluates these bids based on the submitted amounts and qualifications rather than engaging in price negotiations.

When awarding the contract, agencies must follow specific criteria to select the most appropriate bid, often the lowest qualified bid that meets all the requirements set forth in the bidding documents. Returning bid deposits is a necessary procedural step that occurs after the bidding process, once bids have been opened and evaluated. Receiving bids is a critical step where all proposals are collected and reviewed.

Negotiating prices would disrupt the competitive nature of the bidding process and could lead to unfair advantages or collusion among bidders, which is why it is not a recognized step in the procedures outlined under Chapter 30, 39M. Thus, the focus remains on maintaining a structured and impartial process that is crucial for public contract awards.