Swift Current’s drinking water is once again safe and ready for the upcoming year.
Keegan Story, manager of environmental services for the City of Swift Current, presented Swift Current city council with the 2026 water treatment plant chemical tender, outlining the annual process for securing the chemicals needed to treat potable water drawn from the Swift Current Creek.
Story explained that the plant uses several chemicals, each serving a specific purpose in ensuring the safety and stability of the city’s drinking water. Potassium permanganate removes iron, manganese and organic materials. Activated carbon removes natural organic compounds and odour-causing elements. Liquid fluoride supplements daily intake to promote dental health. Chlorine liquefied gas disinfects potable water and provides long-lasting residual protection. Caustic soda adjusts pH levels, while liquid alum acts as the primary coagulant to help filter impurities.
An invitation to tender was posted Oct. 31 on SaskTenders and the City’s website, closing Nov. 21. All submitted prices included shipping to Swift Current and excluded GST. Story noted that chemicals used in potable water production are exempt from PST.
He also highlighted a cost-saving measure implemented in 2025, when two unused tanks at the water treatment plant were repurposed for caustic soda storage. The increased capacity allows for larger bulk deliveries and is expected to save $26,000 in 2026.
No local companies submitted tenders. Story recommended council award each chemical contract to the lowest bidder meeting specifications:
• Potassium permanganate to Brenntag Canada in Winnipeg at $5.30 per kilogram
• Activated carbon to ClearTech Industries in Regina at $1.26 per kilogram
• Liquid fluoride to Clearwater Equipment and Technologies in Calgary at $3.38 per kilogram
• Chlorine liquefied gas to ClearTech Industries in Regina at $2.32 per kilogram
• Caustic soda to Brenntag Canada in Winnipeg at $0.66 per kilogram
• Liquid alum to ChemTrade West in Saskatoon at $0.483 per kilogram
Council approved the recommendation.
Original article online at: https://www.swiftcurrentonline.com/articles/city-approves-chemical-purchases-for-water-treatment-plant