Merlin Klotz

The 2025 Water Efficiency Plan outlines strategies for sustainable water use and conservation. It focuses on achieving a quantitative reduction in per capita water demands by 2035, fostering community engagement and education on water-saving practices, and ensuring fiscal sustainability through tiered water rates. The plan also prioritizes efficient water use among commercial and large irrigators, alongside robust collaboration with community stakeholders, to support long-term water security and environmental stewardship.

The board discussed key water conservation initiatives, including the implementation of voluntary stage one drought alerts and the status of residential water waste enforcement. Updates were provided regarding the 'Garden in the Box' distribution program, community landscaping workshops, and the engagement levels of the Citizens Academy. The board also reviewed an interim audit report projecting a strong net financial position and received operational updates on maintenance projects, including the replacement of UV disinfection bulbs and sediment removal at the Cherry Creek diversion structure.

The board meeting featured updates on several key operational and engineering projects. Notable discussion topics included the use of a board facility for an election center, community relations involving local first responders, and a recent 5K run held at the dam. Engineering updates covered the completion of the Wise Pump Station, the decommissioning of various lift stations, progress on the Bradbury tank site blowdown, and the implementation of a reservoir oxygenation system. The board also reviewed water production statistics, wastewater flow data, maintenance program metrics, resource sharing arrangements with Castle Rock, and ongoing progress regarding the organization's IT migration to SharePoint.

The board meeting covered several operational and strategic updates. Key topics included a partnership with Grand Valley State University, the hiring of a new engineering manager, and updates on reservoir levels and maintenance progress using a new CMMS program. Discussions were held regarding a cybersecurity incident involving Canvas and the potential adoption of a no-ransom-payment policy. Legal updates were provided on the Flat Valley Water Partnership water case, membrane filter issues at the plant, and final well site agreements with Ridgegate. Additionally, staff provided a brief report on the conclusion of the legislative session.

The board discussed ongoing community and district activities, including gun dog training at the reservoir and a recent kayaking incident that prompted a review of safety protocols. Updates were provided regarding upcoming ADU and graywater policy guidelines, a successful youth educational outreach event, and the status of the 2025 audit. Additionally, the board approved the disbursements for accounts payable and authorized Resolution 2026-10, which amends the Ramblewood Inclusion Agreement to assist with subdivision plat recording requirements.