Antietam Valley Muncipal (Sewer) Authority

Key discussions included finance items, specifically the ratification of checks totaling over $103,000 from the General and Payroll accounts, and the approval of the Treasurer's Report for December 2025. Under committee reports, the Administration/Personnel committee addressed the need to complete a wage study and grant raises to two employees who passed operator exams. The Finance committee focused on reviewing the Budget Comparison dated 12/31/2025 and the necessity of building the Capital Budget. The Safety committee noted that safety videos are watched monthly, and an action was taken to get pricing for employee sweatshirts. Under I & I, Change Order No. 1 for a larger pipe diameter amounting to $9,336.46 was accepted. The Superintendent reported on ongoing pump maintenance issues requiring parts fabrication, an ordered packing gland, and planned concrete work for warmer weather. Repair quotes were reviewed for the Muffin Monster, and updates were given on sampler freezing and waiting for parts for the Cues Camera upgrade. Engineering reports covered troubleshooting low water pressure for the Headworks Upgrade, placing an invitation to bid on PennBid, the rejection of all bids for the Digester Conversion, and confirmation that the NPDES Permit Renewal is being processed. Finally, the Office Manager reported on issuing sewer forgiveness credits for leaks to three entities: Mr. Stavros Flamporis, Central Berks Regional Police, and Mr. Steve Miller.

Key discussions and actions included the ratification of combined General and Payroll account payments totaling $217,060.46 for the period ending December 17, 2025, and approval of the Treasurer's Report for November 2025. Under Administration/Personnel, an employee was taken off probation with a retroactive hourly increase, job descriptions were discussed, and an employee was approved for a Cost of Living Raise effective January 1, 2026. The Finance section saw the approval of the 2026 Budget, with the Capital Budget compiled monthly, and discussion on advertising for a Laborer position. In Insurance/Pension, a quotation for Cyber Liability Insurance was approved. Buildings/Grounds/Equipment discussions involved getting quotations for concrete repairs at the old Pump Station and checking for a written agreement regarding a backhoe. Under the Superintendent's report, necessary parts were ordered for an obsolete pump, repairs were initiated for a damaged computer board on a flow chart, and approval was granted to purchase two All Weather samplers due to freezing issues. Engineering updates covered receiving the WQM Part II Permit for the Headworks Upgrade, noting that a decision on the Digester Conversion contracts is due by the January meeting, and reviewing the status of the NPDES Permit Renewal and LSA Funding Application. The Office Manager reported on the distribution and advertising of 2026 meeting dates and the approval of Sanitary Sewage Transportation & Treatment Rates from the City of Reading. The meeting concluded with adjournment to an Executive Session to discuss sewer plant equipment.

The meeting addressed financial matters, including the ratification of general and payroll account checks, and the approval of payments for specific projects. The Treasurer's Report for October 2025 was reviewed and approved. Committee reports covered administration, personnel, finance, insurance, pension, buildings, grounds, equipment, and safety. Key discussion points included employee agreements, the completion of the 2024 Audit, and a review of the 2026 Budget Draft. The board also discussed insurance quotations, worker's compensation policy fees, and potential cyber liability insurance. Updates were provided on the Headworks Upgrade, Digester Conversion, NPDES Permit Renewal, and various grant applications. Additionally, a sewer forgiveness request was approved, and the termination of an electricity contract was noted.

The meeting included discussion of financial reports, committee updates, and engineering matters. Key topics included the review of checks for ratification, the treasurer's report, and updates on DEP Wastewater Operator Tests. The board discussed the 2024 Audit, CD interest rates, and modifications to the Cues camera. Updates were provided on insurance quotations, building plans, safety videos, and the F.O.G. program. The solicitor reported on collection efforts for sewer fees and charges. The superintendent discussed PA One Calls, DMR submissions, motor repairs, and pump station maintenance. Engineering updates covered the Headworks Upgrade, Digester Conversion, NPDES Permit Renewal, and CIPP Lining Project. The Office Managers Report addressed a Sewer Forgiveness Request, health insurance increases, and employee Thanksgiving and Christmas gifts. The meeting adjourned to an Executive Session to discuss personnel issues.

The meeting covered financial matters, including the ratification of payments from the General and Payroll Accounts, and the approval of the Treasurer's Report for July 2025. Personnel matters included the ratification of hiring Gary Hartman and David Herb, and the termination of Mr. Sell. The board discussed electricity pricing and decided to proceed with a 48-month contract with Freepoint Energy Solutions. Updates were provided on the new garage lease agreement, safety protocols, PA One Calls, and repairs to a leaking water service line. The board also discussed the Headworks Upgrade and Digester Conversion projects, as well as funding applications. Additionally, the board approved sewer credit requests from multiple residents.