Michael Albano

The board discussed and approved the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and rate proposal, which includes a 2.8% rate increase to support infrastructure and water treatment investments. Key operational updates included the startup of seasonal wells, progress on ARPA-funded infrastructure projects, and a 40-year agreement to operate the Saltaire water system. Various contract extensions and new awards were authorized for services including insurance, legal, construction, and equipment procurement. Additionally, the board approved research support for PFAS removal technology and personnel actions, including hiring and promotions within multiple departments.

The meeting featured a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget and Rate Proposal, along with updates on the Oakdale Campus project including site work progress and the contract award for the new operations building. Discussions covered the expansion of the HomeServe partnership, contract extensions for various legal, maintenance, and engineering services, and the approval of bids for construction, equipment, and supply procurement. The Board addressed special service requests, IT infrastructure and cybersecurity upgrades, personnel hiring actions, and proposed land acquisition and uncollectible balance write-off policies. Additionally, the meeting included authorization for well construction applications and conference attendance approvals.

The committee reviewed and presented the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget and Rate Proposal, which includes operating, maintenance, capital, and debt service budgets. Key discussion topics included the recommendation of proposed rates and fees, analysis of consumption and service charges, and hydrant and fireline rate increases. The meeting also included a public hearing notice regarding the proposed rate adjustments and updates on long-term debt balance history and financial performance targets.

The board meeting focused on the adoption of the fiscal year 2027 budget and rate proposal, totaling $346 million. Key agenda items included major investments in infrastructure and water treatment, specifically advanced water treatment systems and water main improvements. The board reviewed fiscal metrics such as debt service coverage ratio, debt ratios, cash on hand, and collection effectiveness. Additional discussions covered the Salt Air Water System agreement to assume operations, ongoing seasonal water well preparations for peak summer demand, and various infrastructure projects like National Boulevard and South River Road. The board also noted the authority's AAA bond rating and progress in reducing long-term debt.

The board meeting covered several key operational and financial topics. Discussions included storm recovery efforts, employee recognition for their work during severe winter weather, and updates on the Oakdale campus expansion project, specifically the construction of a new operations building and the upcoming contract award for this project. Additionally, the meeting addressed the upcoming budget cycle for 2027 and the Pine Barrens annual report. A presentation was provided regarding the partnership with HomeServe, detailing the performance and customer response rates for the new service line and sewer septic protection plans.