Kelly Dudash

The meeting included discussions on Board member appointments and the conveyance leaseback proposal, with concerns raised regarding financial challenges, valuation, and administrative impacts. Updates were provided on the PENNVEST loan security and pending Right-To-Know requests. Technical projects discussed included the Spook Lane tank construction, Laurel Avenue and Oley Turnpike Road water main projects, and SCADA grant extensions. Maintenance reports highlighted recent water main breaks and cold-weather system repairs. The Solicitor confirmed homeownership responsibility for private service line repairs at Friedensburg Road and finalized a water service agreement with PA American. Additionally, the Board addressed lake spillway funding, approved a waterfowl management program for Crystal Lake, considered new infrastructure needs like hydrant replacement, and reviewed potential second water meter installations for residents. Personnel salary increases were also approved following an executive session.

The board reviewed several operational and infrastructure projects, including updates on the Laurel Avenue and Oley Turnpike Road water main projects, and authorized engineering work orders for both. Maintenance reports detailed responses to multiple water main breaks and service failures. The board approved the purchase of a Kubota mini-excavator and an aluminum trailer to increase in-house maintenance efficiency. Additional approvals were granted for SCADA system improvements, including an expansion module and a VFD for Well 14, while deferring action on cellular communications. Legal items included formalizing an AVRCC lease and a license agreement with Lower Alsace Township. Furthermore, the board discussed grant funding for a lake project, federal funding for stormwater corrections, a proposed borough conveyance-leaseback, and property boundary issues related to shared water lines.

The board conducted a reorganization session to elect officers and approved the retention of professional services including legal, audit, and engineering firms. Key discussions included the Laurel Avenue Water Main project contracts, the advancement of the Oley Turnpike Road Creek Crossing project, and updates on PFOA/PFAS compliance. Maintenance reports highlighted water system issues and a proposal for heavy equipment procurement. Legal matters involved rules updates, employee safety procedures for home visits, and collection strategies for delinquent accounts. Additionally, the board addressed the potential conveyance-leaseback arrangement with the Borough, finalized the AVRCC lease, and reviewed committee assignments.

The meeting addressed an audience concern regarding a significantly high water bill, where staff offered to have the water meter tested. The Treasurer's report noted the receipt of the full American Rescue Plan grant for Carsonia Park Phase 1. The Board reviewed the draft 2026 budget, discussing projected capital projects such as a VFD for Well No. 14, backhoe tires, and main/valve replacements, along with potential future building needs. Contract awards included accepting the lowest bid for the Laurel Avenue Water Main Project, contingent upon legal review, and approving substantial payments for the Spook Lane Tank construction to DN Tanks and Kite and Key Electric. Maintenance updates covered leak repairs, generator maintenance contract approval, and the purchase of a hot water pressure washer. The Solicitor updated the Board on pursuing judgment against a severely delinquent account and on the finalized rate structure agreement with PA American Water. Discussions on unfinished business also covered ground maintenance responsibilities with AVRCC. Source Water Protection involved approving a quote for tree removal at the lake and addressing unauthorized motorized vehicle use.

The meeting addressed concerns about late fees on water bills and discussed the Crystal Lake project phases, including desilting, BMP installation, and pathway creation. The board discussed an LSA grant application for Phase 3 of the Crystal Lake project and the status of Well 14 after a cleaning project. They reviewed the monthly maintenance report, including repairs and illegal dumping on Authority property. The board also discussed a new water cooler contract and storm water management systems. Discussions also included renewing the office lease, negotiating a new agreement with PA American Water, cell phone upgrades, and extending the AVRCC lease. The board considered a new cellular-based water meter system and discussed a budget meeting, carnival parking request, and Christmas dinner.