Sources familiar with the bidding process have raised concerns about the awarding of the new concession contract for water supply, sewerage, and wastewater treatment services in Matalascañas, El Rocío, the Matalagrana industrial estate, and Almonte. This 25-year contract could exceed 215 million euros with extensions.
The controversy emerged during the contracting board meeting on March 26, where technical proposals were evaluated. It was revealed that the scoring was based on reports from two consulting firms, Aymed Proyectos, Obras y Servicios and Are Asesores y Participadas, despite only the former being listed in the public file and on the State contracting platform.
“"The law grants the board the capacity to hire as many advisors as it deems necessary to carry out its work."
Some bidders requested the annulment of the scoring or the suspension of the opening of economic offers, arguing that the hiring of Are Asesores did not comply with Article 326 of the State Contracts Law. However, the contracting board dismissed the request after a brief recess and proceeded with opening the economic envelopes.
Manuel Vázquez, chief of staff for the Almonte Mayor's Office, acting as municipal spokesperson, defended the legality of the process and the hiring of both companies. He explained that both were contracted through a restricted, non-advertised procedure by requesting quotes. While acknowledging that the publication procedures on the platform were not carried out for Are Asesores, he maintained that the process was identical and legal.
The City Council expects the resolution proposal to be communicated to bidders this week and submitted to the plenary for final approval. Vázquez insisted that “there are no irregularities” in the process carried out by the Almonte corporation, despite critical sources not ruling out potential appeals from bidders.
