MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) — Marshfield used an emergency purchasing policy rarely invoked by city administration after a cooling unit serving a city server room failed and officials determined waiting for the normal bidding process could put municipal technology systems at risk. City officials concluded there was a significant risk to digital and information technology operations if replacement was delayed. After consulting public works and facilities staff, Barg authorized immediate replacement under the city’s emergency procurement policy. Barg emphasized that use of the emergency purchasing authority is unusual. The normal city procurement process typically provides time for competitive purchasing procedures, but the emergency policy allows officials to act more quickly when delay presents a substantial risk.