James J. Mackie

The Board of Commissioners discussed various financial and administrative matters, including the approval of a bill list, adjustments to service charges for ratepayers, and the adoption of cash change and stale check policies. Additionally, the Board appointed professional rate and energy counsel, adopted an amended budget for 2026, authorized contract modifications for emergency well construction, and approved emergency sanitary sewer repairs. Other business included authorizing masonry restoration, entering into an intermunicipal sludge management agreement with Burlington County, and approving a cooperative purchasing contract for pump controls.

The board discussed several financial and operational matters, including the adoption of an amended capital budget for fiscal year 2026, the approval of various bill payments, and the adjustment of service charges. Resolutions were passed to increase compensation for the solicitor and labor counsel, and to authorize 2026 salary increases for non-union employees. The board awarded a bid for the pollution control plant grit pad and approved change orders for Well 5A. Additionally, the board addressed reports on personnel, including healthcare options and staff changes, operations updates on utility infrastructure projects, and strategic master planning. The meeting also included an executive session to discuss potential litigation and contract negotiations, resulting in a resolution to withdraw from the State Health Benefit Plan.

The board conducted a retreat focused on the development of a strategic plan, which included presentations on ethics, chain of command, and authority board powers. Additionally, the board authorized an executive session for discussion.

The board discussed various operational and financial reports, including the Executive Director's update on solar panels, the PFOS Summit, and the Treasurer's report on energy credits and investments. Several resolutions were passed, including the authorization of bill payments, service charge adjustments, approval for purchasing through state and cooperative contracts, and a request for bids regarding cellular antenna installations. The board also reviewed committee reports, including discussions on residential lateral solutions and a new building project. An executive session was held to discuss litigation, PFOS, and retiree healthcare benefits, resulting in a motion to adjust the healthcare waiver policy.

The board authorized an emergency meeting to address urgent matters. Key actions included the authorization of an agreement with the Willingboro Board of Education, which was discussed following an executive session regarding contractual legal matters. Additionally, a board member raised inquiries regarding the maintenance and operational status of water well facilities.