Anthony C. Cannon

The meeting includes the consideration of recommendations from the classification and compensation study consultant, the consideration of the market adjustment and merit program for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, and a review of the employer 401(k) contribution.

The committee meeting materials include agenda items for an upcoming session and minutes from a previous session. Key topics covered include a presentation on health, dental, and pharmacy insurance renewal recommendations, the consideration of a Community Service and School Involvement Leave policy, discussions on market adjustments and merit programs for employee compensation, a review of 401(k) employer contributions, and an update regarding an ongoing classification and compensation study.

The board addressed several key operational and financial matters. Major agenda items included the consideration of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) contract award with Sensus-Xylem and the recommendation for the bid award for Boviet Substation site work. The board also reviewed monthly financial statements, discussed the FY 2025-2026 budget amendment for the Gas Fund, considered the award of an auditing services contract, and addressed the adoption of a series resolution for the issuance of combined enterprise system revenue refunding bonds. Additionally, the meeting included updates on budget development, the general manager's report, and executive sessions regarding privileged information and economic development incentives.

The workshop session included a finance update where the Chief Financial Officer proposed changing the unbilled accounts receivable accrual method to a single annual year-end adjustment across all four funds starting in FY 2027 to improve reliability and consistency. A budget update was provided, showing overall combined GUC rates are below the median, alongside the timeline for the FY 2026-2027 budget process. The Electric Update covered wholesale cost pressures impacting GUC's large power budget, driven by load growth, aging generation, and decarbonization efforts. ElectriCities presented on the Pathway to Carbon Neutrality, noting legislative changes like the elimination of the interim 2035 carbon reduction target via Senate Bill 266. Rate projection scenarios for NCEMPA were reviewed, with the rate committee selecting Option 2 (a 4.5% increase in 2026). The session concluded with a planned closed session to discuss economic development incentives under N. C. G. S. 143-318.11(a)(4).

The meeting commenced with the acceptance of the agenda, followed by a safety brief detailing emergency procedures. Recognition was given to the Water Resources Backhoe Rodeo Team for their performance in the October competition, including first and second-place finishes in various events. Recognition was also extended to the Water Resources Tapped Out team for placing 2nd in the Pipe Tapping competition and the Barrel Boys team for placing 2nd in the Hydrant Hysteria competition. The financial statement for December 31, 2025, was reviewed, noting stable year-to-date results and specific reserve fund balances. The General Manager's Report included informational readings on various bids awarded during the previous month for AMI solutions, radiographic x-ray services, construction, vehicle procurement (Ford F-250, F-550, and a 2000 Ford Ranger), concrete poles, chemical supplies, and wire lugs. The report also noted avoided demand costs from load management operations and highlighted several instances of outstanding customer service provided by employees. A semi-annual report on the disposal of surplus property from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, was presented, showing total revenue generated. Other announcements included the finalization of a prepay agreement for gas purchases and upcoming relocation of board meetings due to HVAC work. The Board ultimately entered and exited a Closed Session to consult with counsel and discuss confidential matters.