Peter J. Merlo

Key discussions during the meeting included a public comment regarding the new Infrastructure Fee and its relation to lead pipe replacements, with clarification provided that the fee funds capital investments and is separate from lead service line replacement initiatives. A staffing update was provided by Veolia Water. The Board authorized an increase in funding not-to-exceed $345,000.00 for additional engineering services with GHD Consulting Services, Inc. for the Engineering Retainer project. A no-cost change order contract time extension was authorized for the Colonel Ward Pumping Station Electrical Improvements Project. GHD presented an update on ongoing professional services, including support for an upcoming bond issuance, coordination with the Rate Consultant regarding debt service coverage ratios, preparation to advertise the chlorine improvement project, and oversight of asbestos surveys and capital improvements at the Colonel Ward Water Treatment Facility. Veolia Water reported on monthly financial performance, noting $4.94 million in revenue for January 2026 against a budget of $4.56 million, and provided statistics on customer enrollment in affordability programs and senior assistance programs. The report also detailed recent main breaks and repair efforts under challenging winter conditions.

The meeting included the approval of draft audited financials as presented by the City Accountant. The next meeting is to be announced.

The Buffalo Water Board meeting addressed several key areas, including a staffing update, a contract time extension for a corrosion inhibitor study with the Research Foundation for SUNY, and a report on Limit Accounts activities. GHD Consulting Services provided updates on their assistance with a proposed bond issuance, an updated enforcement policy for delinquent water accounts, discussions with Promise Pay, updates to the Get Water Wise website, and ongoing services at Colonel Ward Treatment Facility and Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park. Veolia Water presented their monthly Management Report, highlighting the Pathways to Affordable Water programs, senior citizen assistance, payment plans, and the Replace Old Lead Lines (ROLL) Program. The board discussed changes to the ROLL Program due to unfunded mandates from the USEPA's Lead & Copper Rule Revision (LCRR), emphasizing the system's compliance with water quality standards and protective measures against lead leaching.

The Buffalo Water Board meeting included discussions and updates on several key areas. The board received information about the New York State Department of Health's approval for Public Water Supply Improvements related to the addition of fluoride. Public comments were heard, with expressions of support for fluoride addition and better public communication. A staffing update was provided, and the board authorized a no-cost change order contract time extension for the Colonel Ward Pumping Station Electrical Improvements Project. Another no-cost change order contract time extension was authorized for the Capital Improvement Project -- Various Locations 2. The board also authorized a cost increase for CHA for the Capital Improvement Project -- Various Locations 2, and an increase in funding for GHD Consulting Services, Inc. for additional engineering services. GHD Consulting Services, Inc. delivered a report on their on-going professional services, including positive social media response, distribution of informational pamphlets, coordination with Promise Pay, and development of a cost analysis for neighboring water utilities. Veolia Water presented their monthly management report, highlighting collections through the Promise Pay program and assistance from New York State programs. The board entered and exited an Executive Session to discuss litigation matters.

The Buffalo Water Board meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. A staffing update was provided, and resolutions were approved regarding the determination of responsibility for Veolia Water North America-Northeast, LLC and the authorization of the Management Agreement with the same entity. The board also approved the Fiscal Year 2020/2021 Budget and authorized a funding increase for Watts Architecture & Engineering for additional services related to the Niagara Street Phase 3 Rehabilitation Project. Furthermore, funding was authorized for a contract with DiDonato Associates for Waterline Improvements Project and increases to contracts with Mark Cerone, Inc. and Erdman Anthony & Associates, Inc. for various watermain rehabilitation and construction projects. The board also approved payments to Veolia Water for services rendered by Destro & Brothers Concrete Co., Great Lakes Plumbing, and Kimil Construction, Inc. Finally, a report was delivered on GHD's ongoing professional services and Veolia Water's monthly management report.