Government Code §2254.004

(a) In procuring architectural, engineering, or land surveying services, a governmental entity shall: (1) first select the most highly qualified provider of those services on the basis of demonstrated competence and qualifications; and (2) then attempt to negotiate with that provider a contract at a fair and reasonable price. (b) If a satisfactory contract cannot be negotiated with the most highly qualified provider of architectural, engineering, or land surveying services, the entity shall: (1) formally end negotiations with that provider; (2) select the next most highly qualified provider; and (3) attempt to negotiate a contract with that provider at a fair and reasonable price. (c) The entity shall continue the process described in Subsection (b) to select and negotiate with providers until a contract is entered into.