Mark Howl

This strategic plan outlines the direction for the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System (ENMRWS) project, with a target completion date of 2031. Key strategic goals include completing the ENMRWS by 2031, delivering a water treatment plant solution utilizing membrane/Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology to meet long-term water quality standards while minimizing additional costs for member systems, and progressing the construction of all pipeline segments, pump stations, storage tanks, and treatment facilities within established timelines and budget constraints. The plan also focuses on securing and managing necessary funding from federal, state, and local sources.

The Eastern New Mexico Water Utility Authority's mission is to deliver quality, affordable water to its member communities. This is to be accomplished through a sustainable water delivery system, utilizing all available means, in partnership with its members.

The meeting included discussion and potential action on several key items, including the approval of monthly financials, a resolution approving the execution and delivery of a Water Project Fund Loan/Grant Agreement, annual contract approvals with Thompson Consulting, LLC and Capitol Consultants, LLC, and the annual review and adoption of per diem rates and vacation/Paid Time Off (PTO) policy. Additionally, there were requests for approval of easement agreements with Bella Terra, LLC and Travis LaGrone for the RW3 Pipeline Phase, and the purchase of real estate from Travis LaGrone for the use of Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System Facilities. The board also discussed state and federal activities, project development activities, the Ute Reservoir USGS Report, and reports from the Chair and Administrator. An executive session was held to discuss acquisition of real estate and attorney-client privilege pertaining to threatened or pending litigation.

The meeting included discussion of monthly financials, including approval for monthly financials for February 2024 and approval of a monthly bank transfer request. The board considered approval for renewal of a Certificate of Deposit. There was a request for approval of Budget Adjustment Resolution 2024-01 for the ENMWUA FY2024 Budget, recommendation of award of RFP 24-0225-02 for land restoration services, and recommendation for approval of an amendment to the 2020 Engineering Services Contract. The approval of the ENMWUA Water Conservation Plan was also on the agenda. The board moved into an executive session to discuss limited personnel matters.

The meeting included discussions and potential approvals for the FW3B Pipeline project, including plans, specifications, construction bid package, advertising for bids, and agreements with the City of Portales and Roosevelt County. Also on the agenda was a presentation of the ENMRWS Water Treatment Plant Alternatives Analysis and a report from the WTP Alternatives Study Working Group. Additional reports were given by board members and staff covering federal and state activities, ENMRWS operations and maintenance, project development, and the Ute Reservoir USGS.