Allison Watkins

This DWSRF Project Plan evaluates current needs and recommends alternatives for comprehensive improvements to the Village of Newberry's water system. Key priorities include replacing lead-impacted service lines to ensure compliance with Lead and Copper rules, updating aging infrastructure such as cast iron watermains to improve water quality and system reliability, and upgrading the undersized water storage tank to meet increased demand. The plan aims to enhance public health and environmental impacts through targeted investments and strategic funding from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, with project completion anticipated by Fall 2028.

The council approved the payment of monthly bills and the 2014 Water Bond. Reports were presented regarding finances, and various departments, including the Sheriff, Fire, and Water & Light. Updates were provided on the lead line identification and pothole project, the Water & Light roof, and ongoing storage tank projects. New business included an amendment to the agenda, a resolution to move toward an appointed Village Clerk ordinance, discussion on a Fire Millage ballot item, sewer line projects, the 2025 audit, and staff hiring plans. The council also received information regarding upcoming community events and public hearing topics for taxation and water fund reviews.

The council meeting covered various operational and financial items, including the review of monthly payables and upcoming bond payments. Key topics discussed included updates on capital projects such as the wastewater treatment plant storage tank, the Green Energy Program, and electrical infrastructure improvements. The council also addressed follow-up responses to public concerns regarding fire hydrant maintenance, street lighting, and utility billing issues. New business items included the decision regarding the PA95 electricity program opt-in and the implementation of a new utility bill payment system.

The Council received a post-storm update from the Village Manager and addressed various financial items, including the approval of monthly bills and upcoming bond payments, as well as the acceptance of the Treasurer's report. Reports were submitted by village officers, leadership, and several committees regarding infrastructure, planning, and utility operations. Unfinished business included the tabling of a service extension request for Pentland Township and updates on the WWTP vehicle purchase, storage tank project, Green Energy program, and electrical repairs. New business involved the authorization to opt into the PA95 electricity program for 2026-2027 and a review of a new utility bill payment system.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Public comments addressed concerns regarding fire hydrants. Key financial discussions included the approval of monthly bills for the period of January 17, 2026, through February 13, 2026, totaling $374,161.83, and the approval of March 1, 2026, bond payments for the 2005 and 2009 Water Bonds. The Treasurer's Report for January 2026 was accepted, and the status of the Save the Bells Fund was noted. Unfinished business centered on the 2026 CWSRF Bond Requirements, where the Council approved engaging Miller Canfield Municipal Finance attorneys and Bendzinski Municipal Finance Advisors, and adopted the CWSRF Notice of Intent Resolution. Approval was also granted for rate structure number two for the EWR Green Energy Program and for a quote of $11,071.00 for Well 7 cleaning and parts replacement. New business involved sending the Pentland Township Request for Service Extension and the Safe Routes to School Letter of Support to the Infrastructure Committee for review, and approving the Village Manager to purchase a WWTP vehicle not to exceed $35,000.