Haider Nawaz

The meeting addressed the impact of storm water and groundwater infiltration on the regional sewer system. Key topics included the challenges posed by inflow and infiltration (INI) in member towns, the progress and costs of the ongoing Clean Water Project, and the implications of rising groundwater tables for municipal infrastructure. Discussions also covered a new rate structure for inflow reduction, the need for improved coordination between the district and member towns regarding storm drainage, and potential future collaboration through a memorandum of understanding to address these capacity issues.

The board meeting primarily focused on the status of the state water plan, specifically the challenges and negotiations regarding the insertion of public trust language and the lack of consensus among stakeholders. Updates were provided on the hiring of Cohn Reznick as a financial consulting firm to assist with year-end audits and internal controls following a staff resignation. Additionally, the board discussed tentative labor union agreements expected to yield significant long-term liability savings, legislative updates concerning the 80/20 funding bill for water projects, and the status of class-action litigation.

The board meeting covered several key administrative and operational updates. The Chief Executive Officer discussed upcoming committee meetings, including an energy and environment committee meeting regarding CSO issues, a water bureau meeting on stream flow releases, and an audit committee meeting concerning a recovery plan for an SAP system integration. There was also a discussion regarding the new primacy charge to be implemented for water customers. Legal counsel provided reports on a class-action lawsuit concerning non-member town surcharges, the committee work on streamflow regulations, and legislative bill tracking. Additionally, the board approved the installation of benches on watershed land, authorized funding for legal defense, and addressed a personal injury claim involving an uncovered gate box. Finally, the board noted the resignation of the Director of Finance and discussed potential future reports on affirmative action programs.

The board meeting addressed several critical infrastructure and environmental topics. Key discussions included the impact of groundwater discharge from the Hartford landfill into the sewer system, which poses capacity and environmental compliance challenges, specifically regarding ammonia levels and combined sewer overflows. The Board discussed ongoing efforts to manage sewer user charges and maintain compliance with consent decrees. Additionally, reports were provided on the Water Utility Coordinating Committee, the transition to sewer user charges for member towns, and the recruitment process for a new comptroller. The board also reviewed legal matters, including pending litigation and municipal union negotiations.

The meeting featured a presentation on a prestigious industry award received by a long-term water treatment manager, as well as an update on upcoming town presentations and projects. The board ratified agreements with three employee unions, and discussion occurred regarding the search for a new Director of Finance. Significant time was dedicated to discussing the long-term status of the Goodwin and Colebrook reservoirs and the associated water management agreements. Furthermore, the board received updates on the Army Corps dike system studies, residential development project impacts on water resources, internship programs, and ongoing litigation. A serious concern was highlighted regarding the flood vulnerability and levee infrastructure at the treatment plant, which presents significant financial risk.