Ellen Ditonto

The board reviewed several financial and operational matters, including the audit report for the previous fiscal year, which resulted in an unmodified opinion for all divisions. Key actions included the approval of fuel supply contracts, procurement of a new utility vehicle, and authorization for demolition and repair work on local infrastructure. The board also approved the issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes to fund design upgrades for a water pump station, authorized sewer slip lining work, and established blanket purchase orders for local vehicle maintenance. Furthermore, the board authorized a real estate purchase for a fueling station site, awarded a contract for the installation of a utility-owned rooftop solar facility, and entered into a lease agreement for its operation. Additional approvals covered software maintenance and network security renewals. Management provided updates on operational stability, the American Public Power Association safety award, progress on fiber infrastructure expansion, and a grant award for the Mason Industrial Park project.

The board discussed and approved several resolutions including the payment of various bills and payroll disbursements across multiple funds. Authorization was granted for the purchase of software subscriptions, a skid steer loader, a mini hydraulic excavator, bucket trucks, and a deck-over trailer for various divisions. The board approved a revised Personnel Policy Manual, authorized the addition of a Systems Analyst position, and entered into a modified wholesale power agreement with the New York Power Authority. Additionally, the board awarded a contract for a utility-scale solar photovoltaic facility, made determinations regarding the environmental impact of battery storage projects, extended a sludge hauling contract, and approved cleaning services for an anaerobic digester. The general manager provided updates on retooling events, power plant repairs, water main leaks, fiber construction progress, and upcoming committee meetings.

The board meeting addressed various financial and operational matters, including the approval of warrants for utility fund payments and debt service payments for solid waste and water infrastructure projects. The board accepted annual financial disclosure statements and authorized continued membership and professional service contracts with the New York Association of Public Power (NYAPP). Furthermore, they approved the purchase of a new refuse truck for the Solid Waste Division and the bid for water well redevelopment and pump replacement at Cassadaga Well No. 1. The General Manager's report covered website updates, utility performance metrics, power plant operations during cold weather, and ongoing infrastructure maintenance regarding pole replacements.

The meeting commenced with the welcoming of a new Board member representing City Council, followed by the election of the Board Chairperson, Greg Anderson. Committee assignments were announced for the Personnel, Strategic Planning, and Finance & Capital Projects Committees, including their respective future meeting dates. A public comment was received from a resident suggesting a partnership with Klaw Industries for recycling glass from the BPU waste stream for use in concrete production. The Board approved warrants for bills across multiple funds (Electric Light, Water Rent, Wastewater Operating, Solid Waste Operating, District Heating) totaling $2,286,880.41 for the period ending January 26, 2026. The executive officers' action in drawing payrolls and disbursements from the General Fund in December 2025 was approved and ratified. Resolutions were adopted authorizing blanket purchase orders up to specified limits for miscellaneous supplies and materials from local vendors, and a blanket purchase order up to $90,000 for vehicle maintenance and repair services by Boyle's Motor Sales. Salary ranges for salaried staff positions were revised effective January 1, 2026, representing a 2.00% adjustment. The Board authorized an Electric Division Purchase Order for $87,500 to K&E Fabricating Company, Inc., for on-site repair of the HRSG Economizer at the Samuel A. Carlson Generating Station. An agreement was authorized with Caysea Contracting Corporation for asbestos abatement services at the Carlson Generating Station for a sum not to exceed $58,750, as they submitted the lowest evaluated cost in response to an RFP. The General Manager reported on operational matters, including the use of the LM6000 Gas Turbine due to frigid temperatures to protect customers from high FAC rates, successful management of system integrity during cold weather, and ongoing work with NYPA to finalize a rate structure agreement. The review of bids for solar projects was postponed until the next month's committee meetings, and updates were provided on finalizing the 2025 unaudited financial results.

This document announces the launch of the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' community-owned, open-access fiber network. It details service availability across the BPU electric territory, competitive pricing for residential and commercial services, and incentives for early sign-ups. The initiative aims to provide affordable, reliable, and future-ready internet access, fostering competition and supporting community growth, education, and economic development through enhanced connectivity. The full system is expected to be operational by December 31, 2026.