Cal. Pub. Util. Code § 103223

If, after rejecting bids received under Section 103222, the board determines and declares by a two-thirds vote of all of its members that, in its opinion, the supplies, equipment, or materials may be purchased at a lower price in the open market, the board may proceed to purchase these supplies, equipment, or materials in the open market without further observance of the provisions regarding contracts, bids, or advertisements.