Russ Lane

The board approved several financial and operational items, including a purchase order for corrosion inhibitor, the payoff of Bond Series 2012, and associated budget amendments for Funds 50 and 75. Additionally, the board approved a DAA form for an HMGP grant, the purchase of replacement GA control valves, and a policy change eliminating the requirement for speakers to state their address during public comments. A future date was set for a budget workshop. The board also received reports on DEQ sewer extension permits, surplus property auctions, and general operations, and conducted an executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding contract negotiations.

The meeting agenda covered a range of administrative and operational items. The board reviewed consent agenda items including check registers, financial statements, and performance guarantee releases for several development projects. Administrative topics included updates to the leak adjustment policy, human resources reports, and planning for the budget and rate fee schedules, as well as an ordinance amendment. Engineering and operational reports focused on the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, various task orders and amendments for infrastructure projects like the sewer stick model, and surplus property management. Additionally, the agenda included an executive session for consulting with legal counsel and conducting contract negotiations.

Key discussions during the workshop meeting included the approval of a contract with Stantec to conduct a bond feasibility study for the administration and operational complex project. A detailed presentation was provided on recently completed and active capital improvement projects, such as the Malmo Loop Regional Lift Station and Forcemain, and several waterline extensions planned to address PFAS contamination in residents' wells. An update on the new Administrative and Operational Complex design indicated an estimated completion in 2027, featuring space for 155 employees and future expansion. The board also reviewed the upcoming budget schedule, anticipating department budget meetings in early February and a budget workshop in March. The meeting concluded with an executive session for consultation with legal counsel.

The agenda was adjusted, deleting specific East Lake phases. Key discussions included the presentation of new Mission Statement, Vision Statement, and Core Values derived from an employee survey, with a suggestion to re-evaluate these periodically. The Executive Director reported on seeking funding from the Local Government Commission for the H2GO Admin & Operational Complex, anticipating bids in May and hoping for a July agenda placement. Updates were provided on funding applications for the S. Navassa Road LS Relocation Project and the ASR Well Project (Phase 2) through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Staff announced plans for the 2026 Irrigation Expo. The Board approved an addendum to the Financial Advisory Agreement with Davenport to cover bond counsel representation for the new operational complex funding application. Operations reported an amendment to a Purchase Order for motor repair at the RO Plant and an update on routine maintenance for the Atkinson Tr Elevated Water Tank. The Engineering Director presented the Asset Inventory Analysis Report for the water distribution system and approved an early site package award for the Operations Complex construction to MGK Management and Construction. The Board also entered and exited an executive session to discuss legal counsel consultation, contract negotiations, and personnel matters.

The board discussed and approved an amendment to a task order for water line extensions to streets with wells contaminated by Chemours, potentially funded through settlement negotiations with Chemours. An update was given on the ASR Well project, with plans to seek funding from the LGC and hold a workshop for detailed review. Operational updates included the addition of new connections and customers, increased water production, and progress on well site 6. The board approved a purchase order for motor repairs and another for Calcite. Additionally, they approved a task order for an SDF Analysis to ensure adequate funding for systemwide upgrades. The possibility of a holiday bonus for employees was discussed, and the board approved a $300 Christmas bonus for each employee.