Derek Doss

The board conducted a budget retreat covering several key strategic and operational presentations. Agenda items included opening remarks from the Chief Executive Officer, an overview of community engagement highlights, and an update regarding the Grove project and reservoir management plan. Additionally, the meeting featured presentations on recruitment and internship programs, an update on advanced water treatment and capacity upgrades, and a detailed review of the financial strategy and budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal years. Departmental directors also presented on capital expenditures and major organizational initiatives.

The Board meeting included special presentations on asset management and biosolids. The Board approved the FY2026-2027 total combined budget. Additionally, the Board authorized renewals for employee benefit health insurance carrier contracts, property and casualty insurance, as well as annual technical equipment purchases and software license renewals. Approval was also granted for various fleet vehicle replacements and additions, the purchase of heavy equipment, and several task orders including SCADA upgrades, dam rehabilitation field services, and owner advisor support for advanced water treatment and capacity upgrades. The Board also received an introduction to new meeting management software.

Key discussions and actions during the meeting included the adoption of the agenda and the election of officers for the calendar year 2026, retaining the current slate of officers. The Board approved two task orders to Hazen and Sawyer: one for the Force Main Condition Assessment Plan, not to exceed $136,000.00, and another for the Shoal Creek Sewer Model, not to exceed $327,000.00. Additionally, proposed revisions to the Procurement Policy and Procedures Manual were approved. Updates were provided on the Watershed Protection & Site Design Requirements at the Shoal Creek Reservoir, leading to a motion to engage with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division regarding land development buffer and setback requirements. An update on the AMI Smart Metering Implementation Project and the communication plan for the Stormwater rate change were also presented.

The Board Meeting agenda was amended to include a recognition for Robin Malone and the 30th Anniversary of the Melvin Newman Wetlands Center, while removing a New Business item regarding the Procurement Policy and Procedures Manual Revisions. Financial reports for the period ending December 31, 2025, were presented for information only. Recognitions were made for Melvin Newman's contributions to the Wetlands Center and for Robin Malone's 10 years of service as a Board Member. The Board awarded the Reinforced Concrete Pipe & Fittings Annual Services Bid to Oldcastle Infrastructure and also awarded the Precast Manhole & Structures Annual Services Bid to Oldcastle Infrastructure. The Board entered Executive Session to discuss Legal and Personnel matters. An update was presented regarding Watershed Protection & Site Design Requirements at the Shoal Creek Reservoir, which was tabled for discussion.

This Watershed Improvement Plan, developed by the Clayton County Water Authority, outlines efforts to assess and enhance the health of watersheds, with a specific focus on East Jesters Creek. Key initiatives include conducting stream restoration, mitigating erosion, and reducing pollution from runoff. The plan emphasizes the importance of protecting water quality through ongoing restoration projects and community involvement in responsible waste disposal and natural habitat preservation, aiming for cleaner creeks and sustainable water resources.