Heather Barnes

The board conducted a public hearing for the fiscal year budget amendment and held a regular meeting. Topics included plant operations, maintenance of MIOX cells and skid systems, pump statistics, and personnel certification achievements. Infrastructure discussions focused on the water tower project and main installation on Bel Air Street. The board adopted an amended budget resolution and a new handbook policy providing COBRA insurance funding for surviving dependents of active employees. Additionally, the board reviewed the expansion of the employee residency requirement, discussed potential rate increases, and addressed a dispute regarding supplemental life insurance that will require legal counsel.

The Board received an annual report from the Lee County Economic Development Group and reviewed plant operations, including the refurbishment of MIOX cells, the completion of ultrafiltration skids, and status updates on river levels and database management. Operational discussions included the conclusion of spring hydrant flushing, the upcoming Water Tower Painting Project, and the approval of the Bel Air St and Park Lane Water Main Replacement Project. Financial deliberations led to the setting of a public hearing for the upcoming fiscal year budget amendment and the approval of a distribution plan for the Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities Workers' Compensation dividend among employees. Additionally, the Board reviewed progress on the Water Tower Refurbishment Project, discussed lead service line replacement strategies, and considered potential adjustments to employee residency requirements.

The board discussed and authorized a Loan and Disbursement Agreement for the issuance of $4,482,000 in Water Revenue Bonds, Series 2026. Additionally, the board adopted and approved Tax Compliance Procedures related to tax-exempt bonds.

The meeting included reports on operational maintenance at the water plant, covering equipment repairs and safety evaluations, as well as the schedule for upcoming spring hydrant flushing. Key financial discussions addressed monthly financials, budget performance, and operating expenses. The Board passed a resolution confirming employee wages and salaries and approved an annual payment in lieu of taxes to the City of Keokuk. Additionally, the Board reviewed progress on the Elevated Water Tower Project, including loan application steps, data management improvements, and future considerations regarding lead service lines.

The special meeting focused on rectifying issues related to the Elevated Storage Overhaul Project bid. The Board discussed Resolution #1245 which contained an incorrect bid total. Subsequently, the Board adopted Resolution #1247 to amend Resolution No. 1245, thereby approving the contract award for the Elevated Storage Overhaul Project to Utility Service Co., Inc. as presented. Furthermore, Resolution #1248 was adopted to clarify and correct the contract price for the same project to Utility Service Co., Inc. in the amount of $3,952,200.00.