CJ Baxter

The committee held a session focused on the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Key discussion topics included the election of the committee chair, a comprehensive overview of the budget message, and adherence to Oregon budget law. Staff presented on fiscal management, expenditure trends, cost-control efforts, and the adaptive planning process for capital improvement projects. Specific capital improvement projects were discussed, including those for wastewater and surface water systems.

The 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Program for Clean Water Services provides a five-year roadmap for investing in core systems, ensuring reliable service, and achieving regulatory compliance. Key priorities include maintaining and rehabilitating existing assets, expanding capacity to support residential, commercial, and industrial growth, and meeting stringent environmental regulations. The program is developed through an annual update process, prioritizing projects based on system condition, regulatory drivers, capacity needs, risk, and service reliability, while aligning with master plans and financial sustainability goals.

This document outlines a series of departmental and program roadmaps for Clean Water Services, detailing strategic objectives, initiatives, and performance measures for the fiscal years 2025-2027. It encompasses a comprehensive range of operational and strategic areas, including government affairs, emergency management, business operations, digital solutions, finance, human resources, legal and compliance, regional utility services, regulatory affairs, water engineering, and natural systems enhancement. The plan serves as a guide for achieving organizational goals, ensuring efficient service delivery, compliance with regulatory requirements, and fostering continuous improvement across all functions.

The board meeting involved a public comment session concerning rising utility rates, low-income assistance programs, and infrastructure facility locations. The board also approved a consent agenda covering contracts and intergovernmental agreements. A presentation was provided regarding the revision process for design and construction standards, specifically focusing on storm water retention, green infrastructure, rainfall analysis methodology, and stakeholder engagement plans for upcoming public drafts.

The board convened a work session to hold an executive session pursuant to OS 192.660(2)(f) for the purpose of discussing exempt records.