Deana Covieo-Clarke

The committee discussed a funding request regarding the Boulder Ridge project, which was ultimately denied in executive session. Updates were provided on customer data, account receivables, and billing. The Chief Operator reported on equipment replacements, including an electric motor and a sludge flow meter, the permit renewal process, and upcoming infrastructure maintenance for Alpine Loop. Discussion occurred regarding the need for site improvements for propane tanks. The committee reviewed financial reports, discussed potential changes to legal representation for receivables, approved the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, and voted to increase sewer rates. Additionally, the committee approved the warning for the annual meeting.

The meeting covered monthly updates regarding customer data, meters, and accounts receivable/billing, noting an increase in paperless customers and commitments. The Chief Operator's Report detailed issues with freezing clarifiers due to cold weather and a broken linkage pipe on the backhoe; the committee approved a quote from Sprague Painting to power wash/seal several facilities. During an executive session, the Prudential Committee decided to engage legal counsel to represent committee members in a recent complaint filed against them as a third-party suit. The committee also set the date for the reorganization meeting.

This document outlines the mission and goals of the North Branch Fire District #1. The mission is to protect the environment and waters for current and future generations. Key goals include reducing and preventing water and sewer pollution, allocating existing treatment plant capacity for future development, and maintaining, upgrading, and expanding the treatment plant facilities. The plan also emphasizes efficient operations to minimize costs and consumer fees, alongside maintaining open and transparent communication with consumers.

The Regular Meeting of the Prudential Committee involved reviewing monthly updates, noting an increase in paperless customers to 1,132 and commitments list to 29,897 gallons. Operational updates included the failure and replacement of Pump 2 at the Mt Snow pumpstation at a cost of $13,987, and the purchase of a spare level transducer for $1112 after the pond transfer pumpstation unit faulted. The committee reviewed detailed holiday flow history data comparing 2023-2024, 2024-2025, and 2025-2026 winter holiday flows. The Treasurer's Report was reviewed, and a discussion regarding a resolution on doubtful accounts was postponed until the February meeting. In old business, it was reported that the district's attorney served a complaint to Tom Ferrazza for legal fees incurred due to court filings, and a review of old contracts was planned. The Board received an update from the Water Task Force representative regarding seeking options and funding, confirming there is currently no commitment from North Branch Fire District #1 to oversee the proposed water district. Furthermore, the committee confirmed that new pump station generators are functional, with the goal of achieving one week of backup energy. The committee requested a calendar of due dates be generated in preparation for the annual meeting.

The meeting addressed several key issues, including approving a payment for an outstanding meter invoice and discussing a request to transfer gallonage between properties. The committee received monthly updates on customer data, meter readings, accounts receivable, and billing, including a review of the Fall billing. The Chief Operator's Report highlighted the installation of generators for pump stations and the use of radio transducer locating equipment. The purchase of radio transducer locating equipment was approved. The committee also discussed cost of living increases and decided to address legal and personnel matters in an executive session. Following the executive session, the committee approved wage increases for staff and addressed the transfer of gallonage.