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Farm Credit System: Costs for Office Space, Equipment, and Furniture Compared to GSA's Costs

GGD-94-57 Published: Jan 07, 1994. Publicly Released: Jan 07, 1994.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a legislative requirement, GAO reviewed whether Farm Credit System (FCS) entities and the Farm Credit Administration (FCA) could reduce their procurement costs by using General Services Administration (GSA) supply sources for office space and equipment, focusing on how FCS and FCA 1992 office space and equipment costs compared with the costs for identical items available through GSA supply sources.

Recommendations

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter Status Comments
Because of potential cost savings, Congress may wish to consider amending the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to extend eligibility to all FCS associations and service entities to use GSA supply sources.
Closed – Implemented
On January 23, 1996, the Chairman, Farm Credit Administration Board, advised Farm Credit System officials that through coordination with the General Services Administration, the authority for the Farm Credit System to purchase supplies and services through use of the General Services Administration sources had been expanded.

Recommendations for Executive Action

Agency Affected Recommendation Status
Farm Credit Administration To help ensure that FCA is obtaining the lowest possible price for procurements, the Chairman of the Board, FCA, should direct FCA staff to consistently compare GSA prices to open market prices before purchasing office equipment.
Closed – Implemented
The Chairman of the Board, FCA, implemented the recommendation on March 8, 1994.

Full Report

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Topics

Cost analysisCost controlFederal procurementFederal property managementFederal supply systemsOffice equipmentOffice spaceFarm creditFarm credit banksFurniture