Ryan Cressman

The board meeting included communications regarding data center contracts and customer service, along with committee reports from the Committee of the Whole, Finance Committee, and Pension Fund Trustees Committee. Key actions included the approval of the 2026-2029 Energy Optimization Plan, the adoption of an amendment to the Cafeteria Plan regarding Health Savings Accounts, the establishment of the 2026 regular board meeting schedule, and the acceptance of the 2025 audited financial statements. Additionally, the board authorized a fourth supplemental utility system revenue bond resolution to facilitate debt service savings.

The board meeting agenda includes the review of various electronic communications from members of the public regarding customer billing, lawsuits, and union contracts. Committee reports will be presented from the Committee of the Whole, Finance Committee, and Human Resources Committee. Key action items involve resolutions for a revised Defined Benefit Plan investment policy and the delegation of authority regarding cafeteria plan benefit design and administration.

The board meeting focused on several key items including the approval of a collective bargaining agreement with the IBEW Local 352, the extension of the internal auditor's contract pending CIA certification, and the authorization of an easement grant to Lansing MI Ventures, LLC. Additionally, the board recognized outgoing commissioners with tributes, reviewed financial and audit status reports, and discussed management recommendations regarding bond issuance and external auditor selection. The meeting also included manager's remarks concerning the Deep Green project, bond sales, and community programs.

The meeting agenda includes discussions regarding the General Manager's delegation of the Cafeteria Plan, a Board self-evaluation survey, reviews of appointee position descriptions, and an evaluation process for appointees.

The agenda for this meeting includes the approval of the Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes from January 13, 2026. Key discussion items involve an update from the Retirement Plan Committee (RPC), consideration of an alternative platform for Commissioners' Smartsheet Dashboard, and a discussion regarding the next review of the BWL Board of Commissioners Rules of Procedure.