Salem Utilities Commission Awards Annual Chemical Contracts with Mixed Price Changes
The Salem Utilities Commission awarded its annual chemical contracts for 2026, noting varied price adjustments. Jones Chemical secured the chlorine contract with a price decrease, as did Bonded Chemical for ferric chloride. However, prices increased for hydrate lime, potassium permanganate, and hydrofluorosilicic acid. A polymer contract was also awarded to SNF Incorporated with a functional stipulation. The commission finalized these essential agreements, navigating fluctuating supply costs for the upcoming year.
The Salem Utilities Commission completed its annual chemical contract awards for 2026 during its February meeting, revealing a mix of price increases and decreases for vital supplies. Jones Chemical was re-awarded the chlorine contract at $1,750 per ton, a $30 (1.68%) decrease from the previous year. Bonded Chemical secured the ferric chloride contract at $1,231 per ton, a $7.35 (0.59%) reduction from 2025. These reductions highlight favorable bidding for key chemicals.Conversely, several contract prices saw increases. Mid-Ohio Valley was awarded the hydrate lime contract at $339 per ton, an approximate 6.27% increase. Bonded Chemical's potassium permanganate contract rose by about 1.49% to $284 per 100 pounds. PBS Chemical’s hydrofluorosilicic acid contract increased by approximately 6.18% to $36 per 100 pounds. Commission Chair Bob Hodgson noted that the highest bid for hydrate lime was nearly double Bonded Chemical's price, despite the increase. The commission also unanimously awarded the polymer contract to SNF Incorporated at $1.37 per pound, with a stipulation from Utilities Superintendent Butch Donnalley emphasizing the product's required functionality to prevent equipment issues. The commission is scheduled to convene again on March 19.
