Description
Title: Authorize a contract for powder activated carbon for Austin Water with Arq Purification, LLC d/b/a Arq Purification, for an initial term of two years with up to three one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $4,300,000. Funding: $358,333 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Water. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets.
Summary
The City of Austin is considering a contract with Arq Purification, LLC for the supply of powder activated carbon (PAC) essential for treating the city's drinking water. The contract, if approved, will last for an initial two years with the possibility of three one-year extensions, totaling up to $4,300,000. The funding for the first year is secured at $358,333 from the Austin Water Operating Budget, while future funding is contingent on budget availability. PAC is crucial for removing taste and odor issues from water, particularly due to challenges like elevated plankton and algae levels in local lakes, and the impact of zebra mussels. The current contract, which expires in August 2026, will be replaced to ensure continued water treatment operations