Gwen Howard

The meeting included a safety briefing and the presentation of outstanding service awards to employees for their actions during a vehicle fire. The Board conducted a public hearing on proposed updates to the billing price book, which outlines fees for various district services. Key discussion topics included the methodology for setting labor rates, the decision to restructure turn-on fees by customer class to assist residential customers experiencing financial hardship, and the financial impact of collection and disconnection processes on both residential and commercial accounts.

The board meetings focused on reviewing and approving various capital expenditure projects, including LNG facility compressor refurbishment, LNG tank painting, replacement of sluice gates at the Florence Water Treatment Plant, and property demolition and restoration activities. The committee also reviewed updates to the District's Billing Price Book, including proposed revisions to various service rates, and received reports on the Actuarial Valuation for the retirement plan and 2025 audited financial statements. Additionally, the board conducted performance and salary reviews and discussed legislative reports and property declarations.

The board meetings focused on a wide range of operational, financial, and administrative items. Key discussions included capital expenditures for water infrastructure and facility safety improvements, such as the Walnut Hill Reservoir project and Platte South water facility upgrades. Procurement activities involved contract approvals for water main installations and various information technology services. Personnel matters addressed salary increases for promotions, the ratification of new salary structures for management roles, and the approval of a multi-year Collective Bargaining Agreement. Additionally, the committee reviewed legislative reports, surplus property declarations, and audit findings.

The board meeting covered several operational and administrative topics, including a safety briefing, capital expenditure requests for water production and reservoir projects, and final contract payments for lead service line replacement. Discussions were held regarding the demolition of the Walnut Hill Reservoir to improve site safety and preserve the historic pump station. Additionally, the board ratified a two-year contract renewal for HR management software, authorized the purchase of a reach truck forklift, and reviewed plans for a new electronic benefit administration system to improve employee self-service capabilities.

The board reviewed and approved capital expenditures, including network equipment replacements, A/V upgrades, and property acquisition. Contract acceptances and final payments were authorized for various construction projects. Additionally, the board approved main extensions for new subdivisions, wage increases and salary ratifications for employees, and adopted positions on pending state legislative bills, including changes to real property transaction procedures and utility excavation definitions. A closed session was held to discuss personnel matters.