Mark Rentschler

The meeting included the approval of the Minutes for the June 24, 2021 meeting. Key discussions focused on the spring 2021 groundwater sampling event, which identified exceedances for Arsenic and E. coli above maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) in isolated samples, alongside nuisance contaminants. Updates were provided on the Dayton Water Quality Study and Infrastructure Review, highlighting that PFAS is the most challenging water quality concern and noting deficiencies in Dayton's Asset Management Plan. The status of implementing the DM-5 booster station project and the stand-by power project was reviewed. Additionally, results from 'Test Your Well' events in Butler, Preble, and Warren counties were presented, covering tests for nitrate, bacteria, iron, and metals.

The Board of Directors meeting covered several financial and operational matters. Key actions included accepting staff reports for the Interim Budget Report (period ending April 30, 2020) and the Investment Report, which detailed investment rates across various accounts. The Board adopted resolutions approving recommended rates for the 2021 conservancy maintenance assessments for Flood Control purposes and MCD subdistricts, as well as the rate for the 2021 Dam Safety Initiative assessment collection. The preliminary operating budget for 2021 was approved and adopted. Furthermore, the creation of FEMA Capital Projects (Fund 401) was approved to receive financial assistance for FEMA-funded capital projects. Supplemental appropriations and advances of funds were approved related to the FEMA High Hazard Potential Dams (HHPD) grant and FEMA assistance for Memorial Day tornadoes cleanup. The Board approved the 2019 Annual Report, accepted staff reports on dam safety and flood protection activities, and approved a resolution in support of the application for EDA funding for the Old North Dayton Levee and Alternative Transportation project. Emergency declarations regarding the Dayton Service Facility fire and COVID-19 were ordered continued. Updated Bylaws and Permit Request Appeal Rules were approved. Finally, officers for the upcoming year were elected, and stipends were authorized.

The special meeting was convened primarily to review the Benefit Assessment Study and ongoing refinements for the Seventh Readjustment of the Appraisal of Benefits. Discussions included the results of Phase 1 and Phase 2 studies conducted by Stantec, which involved pilot studies in Hamilton, Dayton, and Miami County to calculate direct and indirect benefits under various appraisal alternatives (including a new Alternative 5 flat-rate approach). Feedback was sought from the Board on narrowing down the alternatives and refining concepts such as the Equivalent Benefit Unit (EBU) zone-plus approach. Insights were also presented from public opinion research conducted by Burges & Burges, highlighting public awareness gaps, support for the pause, and concerns regarding the complexity and fairness of assessing indirect benefits. Furthermore, the Board discussed feedback received from the Advisory Committee facilitated by MVRPC. Following the open session, the Board moved into executive session to consider pending or imminent court action, after which they authorized the General Manager to sign a settlement agreement negotiated with Sunesis.

The Board of Directors convened for a work session where the General Manager provided a briefing on strategic priorities. The subsequent regular meeting involved designating an acting Secretary. Key financial matters addressed included the acceptance of the Interim Budget Report for the period ending April 30, 2022, investment report review, and the unanimous approval and adoption of the preliminary operating budget for 2023. The Board also approved the recommended rates for 2023 conservancy maintenance assessments, including adjustments to the Regular Maintenance levy to incorporate the expiring Dam Safety Initiative rate. Several supplemental appropriations were approved for projects such as the Lockington Dam Left Wall Drain System and Concrete Repair, Phase 1; the Old North Dayton Levee and Alternative Transportation project; the Great Miami Riverway program continuation; and the purchase of a MowerMax Boom Mower. Contract authorizations were granted for the Miamisburg Fourth Street Sycamore Creek Mitigation Project and the Old North Dayton Levee and Alternative Transportation project. Discussions covered flood protection updates, including levee analysis, hazard prevention sign installation, maintenance activities (such as repairs at Race Street Pump Station and erosion control at Miller Ditch), and equipment/facilities updates. The Board ratified staff action regarding a grant funding request for the Huffman Prairie Access Improvements project and reviewed data on high water events in 2022. Resolutions honoring retirees Janet M. Bly and Angela J. Manuszak were approved. Finally, the Board elected new officers for the upcoming year and adjourned to executive session to consider pending or imminent court action.

The meeting included a compliance check with Sunshine Law and Bylaws, noting that notification was sent via electronic mail on September 9, 2025. A primary discussion centered on low head dams along the Great Miami River, emphasizing the significant safety hazards they pose. Updates were provided on several low head dam projects: the Troy Great Miami River Dam Removal & River Improvement Project, the Piqua Low Dam removal and modification project funded by various state and federal programs, a river safety project at Dayton's Island Low Dam involving the University of Dayton River Stewards, plans for dam safety improvements near the South Montgomery County Low Dam in West Carrollton related to a whitewater park development, discussions with Frontier Group regarding the Hutchings Station Low Dam in Miamisburg, a feasibility study for modifications to the Hamilton Low Dam and Two Mile Low Dam, and the Stillwater River Low Dam Project led by the Village of Covington.