Mark Booker

The board meeting focused on several key operational and security updates. Discussions covered safety responsibilities for employees, the implementation of enhanced security measures at headquarters following recent threats and storm-related incidents, and an update on recovery efforts from Winter Storm Fern. Financial topics included the review of storm costs, insurance and FEMA claims, and an outlook on future capital projects. The board also reviewed improvements to the incident command system, emergency communication protocols, and the expansion of the critical referral registration program for vulnerable customers.

The committee reviewed internal audit reports, including assessments of environmental safety and transmission and distribution operations. Key discussions included a presentation on the Controls and Compliance Integrity Line, an update on enterprise risk management, and the review and approval of a revised internal audit plan for fiscal year 2026, which incorporates a new storm expenditure audit due to recent severe weather events. Additionally, the committee considered and made a recommendation for the selection of Baker Tilly to provide outsourced internal audit and consulting services for a new five-year contract. Various internal audit follow-up and remediation items from previous audit findings were also addressed.

The Board discussed recovery efforts and costs related to Winter Storm Fern, including the appointment of an independent review team and the approval of a $140 million reimbursement resolution for storm-related expenses. Several contracts were approved to enhance grid reliability and storm response, including professional services for LIDAR mapping, storm recovery management, and vegetation management. Additional actions included authorizing an extra $1 million contribution for utility bill assistance for low-income customers and approving various recurring operational purchases and contracts. Furthermore, the Board adopted resolutions to recognize NES employees for their storm response and to designate Lineman Appreciation Day.

The meeting included an independent review update and a briefing on Winter Storm Fern. Key discussion items involved the approval of a contract for Information Technology Support Services, engineering services for an underground system study, allocation of TVA matching contributions for emergency bill assistance, and various purchase approvals. Additionally, the Civil Service Board discussed revisions to the Civil Service Rules. The Audit and Ethics Committee reviewed the annual auditors' report on financial statements and compliance, the external auditor appointment, and the audit plan for the fiscal year.

The meeting encompassed two distinct sessions. The Electric Power Board discussed updates regarding Winter Storm Fern, approvals for vegetation management services, resolutions for employee recognition and the designation of Lineman Appreciation Day, the allocation of TVA community care funds for low-income bill assistance, requests for unclaimed funds, and various purchase approvals. Additionally, an HR workforce update was provided. The Audit and Ethics Committee session focused on the Integrity Line update, multiple internal audit reports covering environmental safety and T&D operations, the revised FY26 audit plan, and the approval of a contract for outsourced internal audit services.