Cape Fear Public Utility Authority

The Board received an update on ongoing efforts regarding the GenX water issue, including engagement with engineering firms for testing and participation in scientific studies. Public comments were addressed regarding billing issues, contract amendments, and community outreach. The Board approved several consent items, including an asset inventory and assessment project, cost-sharing agreements for water improvements, low-interest state loans for capital projects, asphalt repair contracts, and various ordinance revisions. Additionally, the Board reviewed administrative and committee reports, including financial data for the close of the fiscal year, and held a closed session to discuss a legal claim.

The board discussed the termination of a Consent Decree regarding sewer overflows, acknowledging significant infrastructure investment and reduction in overflow volumes. Presentations included the annual Consumer Confidence and Water Quality Report. Public comments were received on storm water drainage issues, water treatment costs, and carbon filter supply. The board appointed a new slate of officers for the upcoming fiscal year and adopted a resolution celebrating the 10th anniversary of the authority. Numerous contracts and contract amendments were approved, covering asphalt replacement, emergency services, vehicle purchases, and various engineering design services. Additionally, the board established a new capital reserve fund for Sweeney water treatment enhancements and discussed organizational reports and committee activities. A closed session was held to discuss active litigation.

The board discussed emerging contaminants in the Cape Fear River, including the implementation of Granular Activated Charcoal technology at the Sweeney water treatment plant. Other agenda items included a review of a recent fluoride overfeed incident at the Richardson plant and the authorization of a credit for affected customers. The board also reviewed several operational and financial reports, including the FY2018-2019 budget proposal, and authorized various service contracts, project equipment purchases, and inter-local agreements. A closed session was held to receive a legal report regarding ongoing litigation.

The board reviewed several administrative and committee reports, including the approval of a resolution to donate a retired fire hydrant and the renewal of the authority's banking contract with Bank of America through 2028. The board discussed the proposed creation of a Workforce Development Manager position, ultimately deciding to table the vote until a future meeting. Additionally, the board approved a tuition reimbursement program and the 2023 customer satisfaction survey. Progress on a consolidation study was reviewed, and the board entered a closed session to discuss a claim before adjourning.

The Board meeting included the approval of several consent agenda items, such as a change order for emergency sewer repairs, a sole source purchase for plant equipment, various service and engineering contract awards, and the authorization of principal forgiveness loan applications for PFAS-contaminated water extensions. The Board also reviewed 2023 customer satisfaction survey results, discussed a tabled residential connection interlocal agreement, approved a water station interlocal agreement, and reviewed monthly financial data. Additionally, the Board approved several contract awards and appropriations for the Northern Regional Pump Station and Southside Wastewater Treatment Plant projects, while also receiving updates on affordability strategies and a consolidation study.