Ed Sutherland

The committee meeting addressed several financial and administrative topics, including year-to-date financial updates, Oracle system stabilization, and progress on audit preparation. Discussions also covered water and sewer operating revenue, delinquent customer receivables, the effectiveness of the Promise Pay installment plan, and cash collection improvements following smart meter implementation. The committee reviewed high customer call volumes due to water main breaks and discussed staffing challenges in the call center and lobby. Additionally, the committee evaluated funding for urgent transmission main repairs, infrastructure maintenance, and grant-funded joint infrastructure programs.

The meeting included an executive summary investment report and a discussion on infrastructure asset class recommendations. The committee reviewed market performance, focusing on volatility and the impact of interest rates. Discussions also covered portfolio rebalancing strategies to mitigate risks and the potential use of cash as a proxy for fixed income. Additionally, the committee addressed the funding requirements for newly engaged investment managers.

The committee meeting focused on the selection of a consumer community advocate for the board of directors. Key discussion topics included the nomination and election of a chair and vice chair, a review of candidate requirements such as residency and voter registration, and an evaluation of various applicants for the vacant position. Members discussed the importance of community advocacy, the vetting process for candidate eligibility, and the diversity of backgrounds represented on the board.

The board discussed revenue and collections through the Fair Share Agreement and received infrastructure updates regarding the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans, including sewerage reimbursements, lead service line materials, and the smart metering program. Presentations covered the West Power Complex construction progress and the commissioning of frequency changers and turbines. Additionally, the board approved funding requests for coagulant pilot testing and basin rehabilitation projects. The meeting also included reports on water main repair work, condition assessment technologies for water infrastructure, and the development of an enterprise asset management system.

The Water Quality Master Plan for the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) evaluates the current condition and performance of its water treatment processes and operations. The plan establishes a framework for future improvements to address challenges from aging infrastructure and evolving regulatory requirements, focusing on regulatory compliance, capacity, and reliability. Key strategic initiatives include the phased replacement of the Carrollton Water Treatment Plant, the implementation of high-priority risk-based projects at both the Carrollton and Algiers WTPs, and corrosion control pilot projects utilizing zinc orthophosphate. The WQMP aims to ensure efficient operations, sustained compliance, and continued public confidence in the drinking water system through a prioritized, risk-informed pathway for long-term investments, supported by 5-year and 30-year Capital Improvement Plans.