Jesse Stephens

This Area-Wide Management Plan outlines a framework for the Boone County Regional Sewer District's utility operations, providing an updated strategic direction for sewer services throughout Boone County from 2026 to 2045. The plan focuses on ensuring cost-effective and reliable sanitary sewer service, wastewater collection and treatment, and protecting public health and the environment. Key areas include defining the service area, implementing a Capital Improvements Plan, managing sanitary sewer use regulations, overseeing private and public wastewater treatment facilities, detailing financial capabilities, and outlining implementation strategies to promote regionalization and improve water quality.

The board engaged in a discussion regarding potential collaboration opportunities between the district and the county, specifically focusing on the sharing of technological and human resources services. Additionally, it was determined that a scheduled closed session was not necessary.

The Board of Trustees held a special closed meeting to discuss an unexecuted negotiated contract and engage in privileged communications with legal counsel. Additionally, the Board conducted discussions regarding the hiring, firing, disciplining, or promotion of specific employees, including reviews of individual performance ratings, merit, and personnel records.

The meeting included safety training focused on de-escalation techniques to manage confrontational situations through active listening and composure. Additionally, the team completed cyber-security training regarding phishing and social engineering attacks that exploit timing to appear legitimate. Staff reviewed the importance of slowing down to verify requests that appear timely to prevent security breaches.

The Board reviewed development activity through permit reports and received an independent audit report for the prior fiscal years, which resulted in an unmodified opinion. Updates were provided on the headquarters renovation project, the Area-Wide Management Plan, emergency pump repairs at the Rocky Fork Wastewater Treatment Facility, and ongoing sewer infrastructure rehabilitation. Additionally, the Board discussed service call labor metrics and marketing communications. Formal actions included the adoption of a resolution updating capacity methodology for the South Route K Wastewater Treatment Facility, approval of an employee political office campaign policy, the selection of a vendor for electronic bill presentment and payment services, and authorization to advertise for a replacement pump.