Stephen H. Coutu

The board discussed several ongoing infrastructure projects, including the pipeline project, dam removal project, and lead service line replacement program. Key updates included ongoing coordination with the Department of Transportation regarding utility permits and road work paving schedules. Financial reports were reviewed, comparing current budget performance and revenue, and the board noted successful outreach events regarding the dam removal. Technical updates on SCADA system upgrades and seasonal maintenance operations were also provided.

The meeting included the presentation of awards to Rhode Island State Science Fair winners whose projects focused on water-related topics. Following the student presentations, the board held elections for its officers, resulting in the re-election of the existing chairman, vice chairman, and secretary-treasurer. Additionally, the board appointed a new member to the policies and procedures review committee and confirmed that other committee assignments and chairs would remain unchanged.

The meeting included an executive director's report covering the progress of the Pucket pipeline project, design review workshops, and various utility and infrastructure developments, including the maintenance garage and dam project. The board also reviewed lead service line replacement program updates, capital improvement projects, and water consumption data. A financial report was provided, detailing pre-audit statements, budget variances, and trust fund reports. Furthermore, the board discussed the filing of mandatory ethics forms.

The Board of Directors held a review session concerning the status of the Pucket Pipeline project, specifically focusing on technical challenges and project delays. The discussion addressed the ongoing design and permitting efforts required for roadway and utility crossings, including a detailed technical explanation of the micro-tunneling methodology proposed for the I-195 segment. The Board evaluated current project schedules, permit application timelines for railroad and infrastructure crossings, and the status of 90% design plans for various project components.

The meeting focused primarily on the bid evaluation and award recommendation for the Water Main Street Replacement Project, a critical, year-long discussion item. Staff reviewed proposals from two contractors, Berkeley Construction and CD Utility, noting several issues with Berkeley's submission and recommending the award to CD Utility for $1,387,369. The discussion included a detailed review of addenda, specific monetary differences between bids, and clarifications regarding National Grid funding application for associated work. Later in the meeting, the Board addressed bid inspection services, approving a task order to CDM Smith for $150,327. Finally, the Board approved the total budget estimate, not to exceed $2,000,000, for the project, including contingency funds.