RFP - Water Treatment Chemicals, Services and Related Items for Harris County

Harris County is seeking proposals for a term contract to provide comprehensive water treatment chemicals, services, and related items for various county facilities, beginning approximately January 1, 2026, with an initial one-year term and potential for four additional one-year renewals. The procurement covers water treatment programs for multiple systems including cooling towers, condenser water, chilled and hot water loops, steam boilers, and closed loop systems across 17 different county facilities in the Houston metropolitan area. A mandatory pre-proposal conference and site visit is scheduled for October 8, 2025, at the Harris County Heating and Cooling Facility. The RFP requires a vendor to provide a comprehensive water treatment program involving chemical treatment, monitoring, reporting, and maintenance of water systems to prevent mineral buildup, control microbiological growth, and maximize equipment life. Evaluation criteria are weighted across five key areas: Technical Approach and Methodology (25%), Experience/Qualifications and Management (25%), References (15%), Pricing (30%), and Presentation/Interview (5%), with proposals due by October 20, 2025, to be submitted online through the Bonfire platform.

The solicitation emphasizes opportunities for diverse businesses, requiring contractors to complete a Subcontractor Listing Form that tracks HUB/MWBE and Section 3 certification status for potential subcontractors. Vendors must comply with various insurance requirements, including workers' compensation, commercial general liability, and professional liability insurance with specific coverage limits. The county reserves the right to award contracts to multiple offerors and requires vendors to be free from debarment and tax debt. Pricing adjustments will be calculated using the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) with a maximum annual increase of 4.0%. While no specific budget range is provided, the contract includes provisions for potential liquidated damages ranging from $200 to $300 per calendar day for various performance infractions. Contractors must also complete a Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) and adhere to strict ethical and legal compliance standards throughout the contract period.