The Marquette Water Filtration Plant utilizes membrane technology to meet safe drinking water regulatory requirements.  All 720 membranes were last changed in 2015 and have a life expectancy of seven years.  The price per membrane in 2015 was $1,050. The membranes are in the 2023 City Capital Improvement Plan and are scheduled to be replaced in the fall of 2022 or the spring of 2023. 

The membranes being replaced are proprietary, with only one manufacturer able to provide the membranes. During discussions with the manufacture, they offered us 2021 pricing of $900 per membrane if we commit to buying them before January 2022. After January, the price is expected to increase 10%.  Approving the purchase now rather than in October will potentially save the City $64,800. Ordering the membranes early also reduces shipping costs by $19,000. The membranes would be shipped in the summer and installed in the fall of 2022. The price quote includes the membranes, seal kits, shipping, and a manufacturer service tech on site to guide staff with the changeout.

This purchase will require a budget amendment.

For the reasons stated above, determine that there is no advantage to competitive bidding and authorize the City to enter into an agreement with Filmtec Corporation in an amount not to exceed $692,420 for the purchase and installation of replacement membranes.