Aaron Wallin

The agenda for the meeting included a Roll Call, Public Comment, and Presentations, specifically regarding the KU Collections Process. Action items focused on the approval of minutes from the previous meeting, capital repair projects including the Kaukauna City Plant Left Forebay Wall Stabilization and Concrete Repairs, and the Rapide Croche Plant Downstream Retaining Wall Replacement. Other action items involved the replacement of a 2022 Ditch Witch Trencher, WisDOT Property Acquisition, and 2026 Key Performance Indicators. Discussion items covered the 2025 Work Plan and KPIs. Monthly reports included financial statements, Power Cost Adjustment Clause, uncollectible account summary, outage report, river flow data, water report, safety minutes, and project updates.

The meeting included presentations on the SCADA Project and the annual groundwater well evaluation. Key decisions included authorizing the General Manager to sign a 50-year agreement renewal with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for underground electric lines, at an estimated administrative fee of $19,980. The Commission also authorized the execution of a quit claim deed to release easement rights impacted by the WisDOT I-41 corridor rebuild project, as KU has no existing facilities there. The Deferred Compensation Committee Charter was approved to formalize governance for the 457 and 401(a) retirement plans. Furthermore, the contract for two grounding transformers from Virginia Transformer, totaling $747,400, was authorized, and the 2026 Electric and Water Operating and Capital Budgets were approved. The Commission also approved the October accounts receivable write-offs and payment of outstanding checks.

Kaukauna Utilities is embarking on a new strategic plan through 2030, building upon its 2025 Strategic Intent. The plan is guided by core priorities of being customer-driven, community-minded, and environmentally responsible. It focuses on serving customers affordably, strengthening community connections through support and engagement, and promoting environmental sustainability through initiatives like water treatment improvements, energy efficiency programs, and responsible waste management.

The commission meeting included an introduction of new employees. Updates were provided on the 2025 Work Plan and Key Performance Indicators, and a review of the 2026 Budget and Long-Term Financial Plan. The commission also reviewed the Electric and Water Financial Statements and monthly reports. Approval was granted for September accounts receivable write-offs and payment of checks. The commission moved to a closed session to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation, and later returned to open session. Actions taken included approving a new organization chart with revised positions, the 2026 compensation plan, the recommended merit pool for 2025 performance, and the updated Water Treatment System Project Incentive Plan.

The strategic intent for Kaukauna Utilities focuses on being customer-driven, community-minded, and environmentally responsible. This overarching direction guides the organization's long-term goals and operations.