Darren Sytsma

Waupun Utilities' mission is to deliver safe, reliable, and best-value services, ensuring customer satisfaction and community betterment. The vision is to provide exceptional service through progressive technology while maintaining respect for resources, finances, employees, and the community.

The Commission conducted an election of officers and established a schedule for future regular meetings. Financial reports were presented and approved, detailing operating income across electric, water, and sewer departments. The 2025 Annual Water Quality Report was reviewed and approved, confirming compliance with all standards. Updates were provided on the Well #6 siting project, the Waupun Utilities Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade award, the Business Park Substation project, and general grid reliability and load growth challenges. Additionally, reports were heard regarding electric infrastructure projects, wastewater treatment operational maintenance and challenges, and findings from the annual leak detection survey.

The commission reviewed and approved financial reports and the 2025 financial audit report, which received an unmodified opinion. Operational updates were provided by the General Manager and superintendents regarding outage management, weather-related repairs, infrastructure upgrades, and treatment facility maintenance. The commission also reviewed utility financing options via revenue bonds, approved 2026 budget amendments for electric, water, and sewer funds, and authorized the solicitation of bids for high-side breakers.

The Commission reviewed and approved monthly financial reports and bills. The General Manager provided updates on the Legislative Rally, the Community Impact Program, and the receipt of the APPA Diamond Safety Award. Reports from the Electric and Treatment Facilities Superintendents covered system maintenance, tree trimming, pole reconstruction, water tower inspections, and lab proficiency testing. Additionally, the commission discussed the transition to using electronic packets instead of paper copies.

Key discussion points included the approval of bills for January 2026 and year-to-date financial reports through December 2025, showing operating income/loss for electric, water, and sewer departments. General Manager Brooks provided updates on community outreach, audit preparation, staff cross-training, and scholarship promotion. The Electric Superintendent updated the commission on equipment replacements and substation planning. The Treatment Facilities Superintendent reported on PLC alarm issues following a software update and odor mitigation efforts. WPPI Energy Services Manager presented the 2026 Energy Services Action Plan, focusing on branding and substation advancement. A resolution was presented recognizing the retirement of Steve Schramm. Finally, the commission approved a contract with MSA Engineering for sanitary and water improvements along N. Grove, Park, Roosevelt, and E. Franklin Streets, necessary to meet a grant funding expenditure deadline.