Melonie Grieser

The board convened for a Utility Committee meeting to discuss mutual projects and planning initiatives concerning the Lake Stevens Urban Growth Area.

The board approved the agenda and a series of consent items. A resolution was passed to adopt a revised rate reduction program, extending benefits to both tenants and property owners. Discussions included an update on plant flow due to saturated ground conditions, an upcoming increase in merchant services fees for credit card transactions, and the status of FEMA grant applications for generator replacements. The board also reviewed proposed changes to the location of utility committee meetings and received departmental reports. Finally, an executive session was held to evaluate the performance of a public employee.

The Board of Commissioners discussed the status of the Puget Sound nutrient general permit and the transition to requirements being incorporated into the NPDES permit via an administrative order. They also approved the final acceptance of the wastewater treatment system and digester vault project. Other topics included an update on the plant's flow and nitrogen levels, an increase in the number of customers on the reduced rate program, the status of the ongoing force main and lift station projects, and a report on active job postings.

The board conducted a regular meeting focusing on several key operational and project-related items. The board approved the award for the Lift Station 11 upgrade project to Shoreline Construction, noting the competitive bidding process and the technical nature of the required excavation work. Management provided updates on key performance indicators, noting successful figures for the 2025 fiscal year, and reported on the Caring by Sharing community donation program. Human Resources announced an upcoming job opening for a customer service position. Additionally, a representative provided an update on the progress of the local Main Street project, including the transition to underground utilities. The board concluded the meeting following an executive session held to discuss the performance of a public employee.

The meeting included discussions on the reduced rate program for low-income residents, with a potential expansion to include renters. The board approved additional services for the 2025 gravity sewer relining program, a change order for the Sherwood lift station decommissioning project, and the award of the 2026 emergency CIP sewer rehabilitation project. Additionally, the board reviewed a successful grant application from the Department of Ecology, which includes both grant and loan components, and agreed to explore the loan option further through a committee process.