The Hot Springs utility department presented a staff recommendation Oct. 7 to award a term contract for the coagulant aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate to Amerrichem (AmeriChem) LLC following a qualifications‑based evaluation.

Water Facilities Operations Manager Cody Howe said two proposals were received — Merrichem LLC and Hawkins Inc. — and the review committee rated Amerrichem highest. "This had to do with the quality of the chemical that's being provided, the parts per million and ... it actually changes the number of shipments that we have to receive," staff said, explaining why the award was based on evaluation rather than low bid. Staff said a Notice of Intent to Award was published and no protests were filed.

Board members asked why a product supply contract was not simply a low‑bid procurement; staff explained that the product's quality characteristics affect dosing, shipments and plant operations, and Amerrichem was the highest‑rated responder. The award is on the consent agenda; staff will present the full evaluation in the packet for formal action at the regular meeting.