Keith Lyons

The Commission received a federal lobbyist update regarding national policy areas and future engagement opportunities in Washington, D.C. Financial claims and reports, including an investment portfolio review, were processed. The Commission approved the filing of a water rate case with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to address retail and wholesale water rate adjustments. Additionally, 2026 wastewater treatment facility sewer rates were approved. Personnel committee reports and recommendations were adopted following a closed session. Finally, the CEO and General Manager presented an operational report highlighting strategic developments and staff efforts during extreme weather conditions.

The meeting included the approval of outstanding checks, wire transfers, and financial reports for October 2025. The Personnel Committee reported on the annual organization chart update, continued representation for the company auditor under the General Counsel, and recommended maintaining the 2025 corporate goals for 2026. A motion was passed regarding the representation of the KerberRose and Steimle Birschbach firms. The General Manager's report detailed an update on an industrial customer following a raw product release and mentioned scheduling a meeting for the industrial pretreatment permit renewal. Additionally, the status of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for banking services was reviewed, which included proposals from three banks for MPU, City of Manitowoc, and combined services.

The meeting addressed the Action Level Exceedance, where MPU submitted a report to the WDNR regarding the installation and optimization of CCT. The WDNR requested further investigation into lead levels and biofilm growth. MPU intends to perform a biofilm and water quality assessment, evaluate distribution system water age, and conduct UDF in 2021. The Generation Operations report was presented, and concerns were raised about missing data. The WIWARN Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement and Resolution were discussed to support emergency preparedness and resource sharing among water and wastewater utilities. The unbudgeted Menasha Avenue Watermain Replacement was addressed due to numerous watermain breaks, with plans to prioritize urgent replacements.

This document provides an overview of Manitowoc Public Utilities' strategic direction, accomplishments, and planned activities. Key focus areas include maintaining local electric grid resiliency, transitioning to renewable energy through the Manitowoc Refuel Renewable Project, optimizing operational costs, and ensuring financial stability. The plan aims to extend the life of community-owned assets, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, divert waste from landfills, retain local jobs, and provide reliable, customer-focused utility services.

Manitowoc Public Utilities (MPU) outlines its strategic direction through planned activities for 2025 and key accomplishments from 2024, guided by an annual strategic planning process and a rolling 5-year roadmap. The plan focuses on operational excellence through infrastructure upgrades and service improvements, financial excellence via rate adjustments and modeling, and enhancing the customer experience with new digital tools and improved communication. A core pillar is investing in workplace culture and employee development through initiatives like the MPU Academy. The organization also emphasizes community support, sustainability, and delivering competitive, safe, and reliable utility services, aiming to be a trusted community partner and industry leader.