Jennifer Cain

The board discussed a recommendation regarding the selection of four contractors for a city-wide solar project following a competitive build-operate-transfer proposal process. Key points of the discussion included project scope, contractor local presence, project timelines, and anticipated six-year payback periods for the total investment. The board formally accepted the staff recommendation to proceed and noted that final contract awards would be subject to a future public hearing.

The board discussed several agenda items, including the approval of payroll, payment vouchers, and an interlocal cooperative agreement. Bid recommendations were approved for a water service line investigation and replacement project. Additionally, the board authorized amendments to engineering service agreements for water relocation and water main replacement projects. There was also a brief discussion regarding ongoing utility infrastructure investigations and future grant application strategies.

The board meeting involved several key business items. Key actions included the approval of payroll and accounts payable, a position title change from water quality manager to laboratory superintendent, and the approval of a statement of basis for just compensation for private development project parcels. The board discussed and approved a bid for the water service line investigation and replacement project (Cardinal and Indiana) and authorized the advertisement for the East Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Improvements project. Additionally, the board approved an on-call engineering services agreement with Clark Dietz, an amendment to an engineering service agreement for strategic space planning, and new professional service agreements for the Broadway phase 2 project and the North Ballard neighborhood project. Finally, the board approved a sludge handling study, and members discussed the status of the Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) program.

The board discussed and approved a consent agenda that included payroll records, an update to the Baker Tilly scope of work addressing rate and cost of service studies and bonds, and various waterline and sanitary sewer extensions. Bids for the water service line investigation and replacement on Cardinal and Indiana were taken under advisement. The board approved the bid for water treatment plant improvements (package number two) to Dyke Brothers Lumber and Construction, Inc. Additionally, the board approved a significant change order for the Lloyd Expressway water main relocation project, which involves an open cut installation method due to groundwater issues, with costs being reimbursable by INDOT. Further, the board approved a zero-dollar change order for the campground booster station rehabilitation, an engineering services amendment for the Lloyd Expressway water main relocation, and an amendment to the professional service agreement with Clark Dietz, Inc. for engineering support related to the new water treatment plant.

The board approved a consent agenda covering payroll, accounts payable, various service agreements, and sewer plans for the Eagle Point extension. The meeting included the opening of bids for the water treatment plant improvements, the approval of statements of basis for just compensation related to property parcels, and the authorization of several change orders and cost reimbursement agreements for water main relocation projects. Additionally, the board approved an amendment to a utility work agreement with the Indiana Department of Transportation and the establishment of master service agreements for on-call sewer lift station design services with two firms.