Capital Region Water

The meeting involved comprehensive discussions and approvals concerning the 2026 Budgets and Rate Schedules for Administrative, Drinking Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater funds. Key operational updates included the resolution of issues with the renewable natural gas (RNG) purification equipment at the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility (AWTF) to ensure continuous operation. Committee reports highlighted personnel matters, including staff updates and the retirement of an HR Generalist, alongside a Pride in Excellence (PIE) Award for a team that mitigated a water main break. Operational reviews covered utility work related to the PennDOT Market Street Bridge replacement, the completion of the locker room project, and updates on insurance claims and the status of stormwater fees. The Board authorized several task orders and change orders, including services for the Spring Creek Interceptor and Pump Station Improvements, the Timber Product Harvest/Sale Agreement for MU4, and engineering services for the Riverfront Park GSI Project. Authorization was also granted to ratify a natural gas contract renewal and proceed with the Solar Interconnection Agreement with PPL, noted as a non-rate revenue opportunity.

This special meeting was held for the purpose of presenting the 2026 draft budgets to the public, with no formal action taken on the budgets during this session. Senior Leadership staff provided presentations covering Human Resources, Shared Services, Drinking Water Operations, Wastewater Operations, Technical Services, and Financial Overviews. The Chief Financial Officer detailed proposed adjustments to volumetric rates for Drinking Water and Wastewater, as well as Stormwater fees for residential customers, and adjustments for wholesale customers. The total estimated monthly increase for a typical City of Harrisburg residential customer was summarized as $6.06. Board members commended staff for their diligent work in limiting rate increases while maintaining service obligations.

The City Beautiful H2O Program Plan for Capital Region Water outlines a 40-year integrated strategy for wastewater and stormwater management in Harrisburg. It aims to benefit the community, control combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges, reduce localized flooding, ensure reliable service, improve water quality in local waterways, fulfill regulatory requirements, and minimize financial impacts on ratepayers. The plan incorporates a suite of CSO controls, including a centralized retention treatment basin, enhanced conveyance, satellite storage facilities, green stormwater infrastructure, and sewer separation, along with rehabilitation of critical infrastructure.

The meeting included a presentation on the Forest Management Plan at the DeHart property, covering FSC certification, timber harvests, revenues, and expenses. The Budget and Finance Committee reported on financial dashboards, accounts receivable, and the transition of the 457 Deferred Compensation Plan. The Personnel and Shared Services Committee discussed IT issues, customer service call volumes, customer assistance programs, and employee updates. The Operations and Engineering Committee reviewed task orders, resolutions, and procurement items, including an Easement Agreement and eminent domain proceedings. The Legal and Risk Management Committee discussed insurance claims, cybersecurity, property issues, and proposed federal regulations on Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. The Public Outreach and M/W/DBE Committee covered the M/W/DBE program, customer assistance programs, community events, and communication reports. Management reported on meetings with senators and congressmen regarding funding and a consumptive-use grant from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission. The board also discussed and approved resolutions and change orders related to drinking water and wastewater projects.

The Community Greening Plan for Harrisburg, developed by Capital Region Water, outlines a strategy to address stormwater management and urban revitalization through green stormwater infrastructure. Key objectives include maximizing public investment benefits, reducing stormwater volume in the sewer system, fostering community partnerships, and enhancing public gathering spaces. The plan aims to improve the city's environment, economy, and equity by transforming neighborhoods, improving public health, and cleaning waterways.