Tiffany Caruthers

The board meeting included a safety presentation regarding roadside work zones. The Audit and Ethics Committee presented reports on internal audit status, non-metered electric billing, equipment and materials management, contribution and aid to construction, and employee accounts. Additionally, an update was provided on the progress of the Four Pillars recovery initiative following a major winter storm, focusing on emergency management framework, communications, and system resiliency.

The meeting encompassed sessions for the Audit and Ethics Committee, the Electric Power Board, and the Civil Service Board. Discussions included internal audit reports covering topics such as non-metered electric billing, equipment and materials management, and financial account reviews. The Board addressed updates regarding Winter Storm Fern, company memberships, and the approval of operating, maintenance, and capital budgets for upcoming fiscal years. Additionally, the agenda featured a Civil Service annual report, human resources workforce updates, and the ratification of Civil Service Board actions.

The committee reviewed the FY26 Audit Plan presented by PricewaterhouseCoopers and discussed the recommendation for the approval of the external auditor and related fees. Additionally, the committee addressed topics discussed during an executive session and covered miscellaneous business items.

The meeting focused on an operational update regarding Winter Storm Fern, including discussions on infrastructure, vegetation management, and the implementation of LiDAR technology for risk prioritization. An update on an ongoing independent after-action review was provided. The Board approved significant vegetation management service contracts to enhance response capabilities, resolutions recognizing staff and designating a Lineman Appreciation Day, and a request for unclaimed funds from the state. Furthermore, a comprehensive list of purchases and contracts exceeding the established threshold was reviewed and approved, and the Board ratified actions taken by the Civil Service Board.

The committee discussed updates regarding the Integrity Line, receiving a report on two closed investigations. An internal audit overview was presented, resulting in the approval of a modification to the Internal Audit Plan to include a storm expenditure audit due to environmental risks. The committee reviewed audit reports on environmental safety and operations, noting the remediation of Q1 audit observations. Additionally, the committee approved a new five-year contract with Baker Tilly for internal audit and consulting services, with a not-to-exceed amount of $7,000,000.