Rebecca Sostenes

The meeting included the continuation of a Public Hearing to consider the 2024 Budget and proposed increases in sewer rates, which was noticed via mail to all customers. Key operational updates involved the successful, cost-saving completion of the sewer manhole replacement project in Saddleback Village. Significant personnel changes were announced, including the promotion of the Office Coordinator to Assistant Manager and the Administrative Assistant to Office Coordinator, aimed at maintaining continuity. The Plant Operations Manager also submitted his resignation. New business involved the approval of the 2024 Board meeting dates and official posting locations, as well as approving a Booster Sponsorship for Grand Valley High School. The Board concluded by adopting Resolution 2023-05 to approve the 2024 budget following the public hearing.

The Board of Directors meeting agenda includes standard procedures such as call to order, attendance, quorum verification, and disclosure of conflicts. Key business items slated for discussion involve the review of the September 26, 2024, Regular Meeting Minutes and the September 2024 Financial Statements and Accounting Manager Report. The agenda also allocates time for the District Manager Report, as well as dedicated sections for New Business, Old Business, and Other Business.

The meeting began with an amendment to add consideration of Resolution 2024-01 and Resolution 2024-02 under New Business. Key discussions included the Manager's plan to commence street sweeping operations earlier than usual due to weather conditions, and the ongoing unsuccessful attempt to fill the vacant Plant Operations Manager position. New business focused on seeking approval for two grant applications submitted to the Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District: one for a portable Light Bank to assist the utility department during nighttime repairs, and another for paving the road at the water and wastewater plants. The Board deferred a decision on potentially raising service fees until the next meeting, pending a complete list of existing fees and associated administrative duties. The Board also tabled the decision regarding adopting a website accessibility policy until March, pending confirmation from the BMMD attorney. Resolutions 2024-01 and 2024-02 supporting the traditional and mini grant applications, respectively, were unanimously accepted by the board. In Old Business, follow-up was discussed regarding potential options for a Summer Youth Opportunities Program, with the Assistant District Manager tasked to gather more information from the Garfield School District 16 Superintendent.

The meeting agenda included a review of the August 2024 financial statement and manager's report, along with a presentation from the Middle Colorado Watershed Council. Key operational updates detailed the completion of the water/sewer plant road paving project, partially funded by a Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District grant, resulting in out-of-pocket costs of approximately $37,000. Furthermore, the new portable electric generator for emergency power at pump and lift stations was delivered and tested, costing around $155,000. The new electric generator intended for the sewer plant has arrived at the contractor's yard, with installation anticipated shortly after the concrete pad is poured. Recruitment efforts for a Water/Wastewater Plant Operator are ongoing. New business involved the unanimous approval of Resolution No. 2024-07 and Resolution No. 2024-08. Other business included the approval of $150 for the Grand Valley High School Booster Club.

Key discussions included updates on personnel matters: the hiring of a new Plant Operator (Ian Foster with a tentative start date of July 7th), continued recruitment for a Utility Technician, and planning for the Accounting Manager's retirement by training the Administrative Assistant. The Board reviewed ongoing issues with the Street Sweeper due to the chip and seal road surface, noting that maintenance staff will conduct temporary sweeping until a permanent solution is found. An update on Water & Wastewater Plant Operations confirmed no detectable levels of PFAS contaminants through Quarter 2 of 2025, attributed to the PAC and Alum treatment process. The Collections & Distribution Department benefited from acquiring an old Vac Trailer from the Town of Parachute for $1,000, which will assist in repairing water valve boxes more efficiently. New business involved the unanimous approval of the 2024 Final Audit and the motion to create a Facebook page, while the annexation of Monument Gulch was tabled for further clarification. Other business included a motion to sponsor the Grand Valley Parks Association for $250 and to approve hiring a District Manager Recruitment Consultant.