Melissa Walker

The committee discussed the proposed CIWW Water Use Plan and the necessary alignment updates for the DMWW Water Use Plan. Operational updates were provided regarding nitrate levels in the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, the Gallery, and the McMullen Water Treatment Plant, as well as the status of reservoir and well operations. Additionally, an announcement was made regarding an upcoming celebration event at the Arie den Boer Arboretum.

The committee meeting focused on a presentation regarding customer billing collection activities and a report on the current audit process, noting progress and positive feedback on the new audit firm.

The Board of Water Works Trustees meeting covered several key items, including requests for authorization to solicit bids for concrete restoration, agreements for median maintenance and custodial services, and ratification of change orders for well pump and control building projects. The Board also reviewed a revised water use plan, accepted treatment basin and well rehabilitation projects, and conducted a public hearing and bid award process for SCADA backbone improvements. Additionally, the meeting included discussion on customer collection activities, internal audit firm status, and updates on high nitrate levels in local water sources and the resulting impact on operations and reservoir levels.

The Board discussed various operational and financial items, including an overview of water sales, chemical expenses, and investment income. Key actions included authorizing reimbursement to the City of Des Moines for a water main extension, approving a construction deferment agreement for Harvest Academy, permitting the relocation of a sculpture from Water Works Park, authorizing a mutual aid agreement with the Iowa Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network, and initiating a move to join the Iowa Statewide Interoperable Communications System Board. Additionally, the Board authorized the purchase of a new backhoe and a professional services agreement for fluoride room improvements at the Fleur Drive Water Treatment Plant. Legislative and operational updates were provided, specifically regarding water quality monitoring funding and monitoring of nitrate levels and water demand.

The board discussed financial performance, noting strong water sales and positive net earnings compared to the budget. There was a review of unrealized losses on investment values and an update on the progress of capital projects. The board authorized the solicitation of bids for the Hazen concrete restoration and repair project, with a public hearing scheduled for June. Additionally, the board approved an independent contractor agreement for median maintenance on Fluer Drive, noting a decrease in costs compared to the previous year and a shift in watering responsibilities to in-house staff. Finally, a request for custodial services was introduced.