Jon R. Johnson

The commission held a meeting to discuss the facility master plan and construction project. Key topics included the history of the facility master plan, the selection of architects and contractors for the project, and the presentation of the guaranteed maximum price proposal. Detailed project elements were reviewed, including site development, new warehouse construction with a bridge crane, administration building renovations, seismic strengthening, and planned frontage improvements along Riverside Drive. The architectural design intent for the facility, including the commission room, customer service area, and office layouts, was also presented.

The commission addressed several key topics including forestry partner reports concerning ongoing timber sales and infrastructure protection projects. Actions taken included the approval of a public hearing regarding water rate adjustments, a resolution to declare surplus clean fuel credits, and a resolution approving a construction agreement with the Bonneville Power Administration for substation metering projects. Additionally, the commission held an initial review of the draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year, covering the light, water, and fiber divisions.

The commission reviewed multiple agenda items, including an easement amendment for Olde Stone Village, an amendment to the U.S. Bank master services agreement for banking services, and a report on forest management activities in the Haskins Creek and Nestucca River watersheds. Additionally, the commission addressed administrative items such as accounts payable and purchasing reports, new employee introductions, and staff reports. Specific actions included the consideration of a request to set a public hearing for water rates, the declaration of clean fuel credits as surplus, a construction agreement with BPA, and the presentation of the fiscal year 2026/2027 draft budget.

The commission reviewed the operations budget for the upcoming fiscal year and discussed the requirement for green energy technology tied to the office expansion project, with staff exploring potential off-site project locations to increase savings. Approval was sought to award an engineering service contract for the Walnut City Tap transmission line upgrade, and the commission addressed an appointment to the Yamhill Regional Water Authority board. The General Manager provided updates on advocacy in Washington D.C., construction-related payments, and community relations activities.

The commission reviewed forestry program reports, including progress on road sales and upcoming harvest recommendations. The general counsel provided an informational update regarding changes in public meeting laws and new legislative requirements. The finance director and auditors discussed the annual audit, adjustments to timber revenue recording, financial statement presentation, and insurance risk assessment consultation.