Luis González Delgado

The Board of Directors of the Water and Sewerage Authority met to discuss and approve several agenda items. Key topics included the creation of a new capital improvement project for the rehabilitation of the Quinta de Altamira sanitary water pumping station in Canoba, financed with ALPA funds. The Board also authorized the executive leadership to enter into a financial assistance agreement with the State Clean Water Revolving Fund to secure over $39 million for various projects identified in the 2024-2038 capital development program. Additionally, the Board discussed and reviewed a lease agreement for a warehouse facility in Juncos to serve as the receiving and dispatch center for an advanced metering infrastructure project.

The board discussed the incorporation of several projects into the capital improvement program, with a focus on rehabilitation and modernization of production systems, environmental regulation compliance, and reconstruction of systems affected by hurricanes. The board also reviewed the progress of the operational excellence program and integrated maintenance, addressing challenges related to vacant positions and the need for efficient asset management of pumps, motors, and control panels.

The board discussed the authorization for the disposal of surplus property located in Caguas, considering its legal framework, environmental certification, and valuation. Additionally, the board reviewed a request for a contract amendment with the Environmental Laboratory to address costs associated with unregulated contaminant testing and issues with previous laboratory service providers.

The governing board discussed the amendment of Resolution 3154 concerning the Triple-A Capital Improvement Program. The discussion focused on updating the program to include 29 new projects, correcting typographical errors related to fiscal year expenditure figures, and addressing the implications of a significant federal fund allocation from FEMA for hurricane-related infrastructure reconstruction. Board members and staff evaluated the strategy for maximizing these funds, potential challenges such as labor and material shortages, and the possibility of extending the implementation period for projects.

The meeting addressed emergency construction work at the Puntilla site, focusing on the financial status, additional costs for bypass operations, and necessary permits from the Corps of Engineers for rehabilitation. The board also discussed the ongoing drought conditions in Puerto Rico and the resulting water rationing plans implemented in the Salinas and Naranjito sectors to manage supply and protect the aquifers. Further efforts were highlighted regarding the establishment of water truck locations and communication strategies for affected residents.