Wade Denny

The meeting involved the initial selection of a Chair and Vice Chair, with Glenn Fee nominated and selected as Chair, and Andy nominated and selected as Vice Chair. Key discussions centered on the 2026 state and federal legislative agendas for Clean Water Services. The presentation covered the legislative agenda development process, the upcoming short state legislative session starting February 2nd, and concerns regarding the state revenue forecast, anticipating agency cuts. Specific legislative priorities discussed included maintaining water infrastructure funding, particularly reinstating the septic loan program; advocacy for housing affordability infrastructure funding; adequate funding for DEEQ's water quality division; policies related to emerging contaminants using a producer responsibility model; promoting water utility resilience and supporting the water workforce; and ensuring water quality protection amidst housing development efforts.

The Board of Directors Work Session covered several key operational and strategic areas. Discussions included the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 Quarterly Financial Report, which detailed revenues collected and budget spent, noting that Service Fees were generally in line with expectations while System Development Charges (SDCs) decreased significantly in Q1 compared to the prior year. The CWS Annual Financial Audit Report for FY 2024-25 was reviewed, confirming no material weaknesses and an unmodified opinion. A Compliance Overview detailed the program's elements, the policy development process, and recent policy approvals across various departments, along with the planned audit of the Procurement program. The session also included an update on the CWS workforce demographics, succession planning efforts due to retirement risks, and initiatives promoting employee engagement and development through the Culture & Development program. Finally, updates were provided on Performance Excellence, noting the continuation of roadmap processes while discontinuing pursuit of the Baldrige Award, and the Climate Action Strategic Roadmap, focusing on mitigation and adaptation strategies.

This document, the North Bethany Stormwater Implementation Plan, outlines the hydrologic/hydraulic modeling methods, facility sizing, and estimated construction costs for regional stormwater management facilities (RSFs) in the North Bethany plan area. It serves as guidance for developers, engineers, and district/county staff to address stormwater quality and quantity needs. The plan details strategies such as locating RSFs at downstream portions of subbasins, utilizing conventional extended dry basins, and integrating Low-Impact Development Approaches (LIDA) to mitigate peak discharges and ensure post-development runoff rates match pre-development conditions, thereby facilitating responsible development within the area.

The Board meeting agenda included several key items. Staff provided an update on the implementation of CWS Resolution and Order 25-5, focusing on measuring public sentiment and providing an analysis of the Clean Water Insurance Company (CWIC). The board reviewed research concerning CWS Billing, including customer assistance programs and a proposed feasibility study for future billing alternatives. Discussions also covered the Long-Term Regulatory Compliance Strategic Roadmap, the current permit cycle, and the NPDES permit renewal plan. Finally, the board engaged in planning and discussion regarding rolling agendas, work session planning, and the proposed budget timeline.

This document outlines the Butternut Creek Enhancement Project, a multi-phase ecological initiative from 2018 to 2032. The project aims to improve water quality, enhance wildlife habitat, and provide natural beauty by transforming the creek to be more resilient to flow changes. Key elements include reshaping the stream, establishing biodiverse native plant habitats, ongoing site maintenance, and community engagement. Partners include Clean Water Services, Hillsboro School District, Washington County, and the City of Hillsboro.