Johnathan Grimes

The Utilities Board meeting included a presentation of the 2018/2019 audit, a discussion of the Emergency Water Conservation Plan, and resolutions to adopt the MWPP Program and designate official representation for CWSRF and DWSRF loans. The board also discussed capacity fees for the Daphne Sports Complex and received reports from the Board Attorney, Finance Manager, General Manager, Operations Manager, and Engineering & Consulting teams. Updates were provided on projects, the Everbridge Alert System, natural gas work, public relations services, and the consent decree with ADEM. The board also discussed employee adjustments to address the COVID-19 virus.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various topics. A recommendation for a bid award was accepted for the Daphne WRF Screen Installation project. The financial report indicated an increase in total assets and that the total net income for the year is over budgeted projections. Updates were provided on the CR64/Pollard Road intersection project, the future of the water reclamation facility, Well #15, and the Maxwell Avenue Water Main Replacement project. The board also discussed a new workforce initiative with the Eastern Shore Chamber, the Locke Lane force main relocation, and the continuation of the Leadership Academy.

The Utilities Board meeting included updates on several projects such as the new well at Diamante, water and sewer expansions on 4th and 3rd Streets, and the Grit Removal System bid status. The board also discussed the GOMESA grant for the North Main Street Sewer Line Upgrade, the Administration office remodel, and a 20-year Water Reclamation Facility Capital Improvement plan. Additionally, there were discussions on water quality, water distribution, wastewater collection, and the renewal of gas in Daphmont. An executive session was held to discuss a controversy imminently likely to be litigated.

The Utilities Board meeting included discussions on Spanish Fort storm water repairs, where Daphne Utilities updated the City of Spanish Fort on the project and addressed concerns about an easement and lift station. Erosion concerns near Bugle Retreat and General Canby were also discussed, including potential corrective actions and monitoring efforts. The Board Attorney reported on the finalization of the Agreement with the City of Fairhope regarding shared gas lines. The General Manager presented the new CCR to be mailed to customers and mentioned a future capital improvement plan. The Operations Manager highlighted cost-saving strategies for upcoming work, and updates were provided on the Monroe Street Lift Station and Whispering Pines sewer connections.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. A contract was recommended and approved for the hauling and disposal of municipal sludge to the Baldwin County Solid Waste Department. Resolution 2023-01, concerning the Municipal Water Pollution Prevention (MWPP) Program, was approved. The financial report for March 2023 was reviewed, highlighting budget performances and revenue streams. Updates were provided on water well developments, sewer expansions, and the North Main Street sewer line upgrade project. The board was notified of a reporting non-compliance issue and commended staff for their response. A demonstration of the Daphne Utilities' GIS system was given, and the 811 Safe Digging month was promoted. A new employee was introduced, and board members commented on training and the Cityworks software tool.