Walt Warchol

The board meeting agenda includes reports from the manager, operations, and office departments, with specific items such as the financial and storage reports, and a summer employee team-building activity. Old business features a discussion on health insurance, while new business covers an updated fee schedule and a 1938 agreement. The meeting also allows for an open forum, approval of accounts payable, and an executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding litigation.

The board discussed the outlook for the irrigation season, noting expected water supply challenges and the implementation of a stock run. An update was provided on modernization efforts, specifically regarding piping phases and crossing negotiations. The operations and office reports detailed facility maintenance, safety training initiatives, and current progress on assessment collections. The board also reviewed the ongoing flume replacement project, approved an updated fee schedule, finalized the start date for the upcoming water season, and discussed recent training on public meeting laws.

The board discussed a transition to cash-based financial reporting and reviewed current drought conditions and water season startup procedures. Operational updates included canal cleaning, truck maintenance, infrastructure repairs, and water flow management. The office report noted progress on assessment collections and the accrual of interest. Under old business, the board received a project update from the Deschutes River Conservancy and discussed the status of an Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board water acquisition grant. New business focused on exploring new health insurance options for employees, and a representative from the Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District provided information on an integrated water management course.

The board discussed the water drought declaration and current snow water equivalent levels. Financial updates were provided on modernization funds and account balances. The modernization report included details on phase 3 and 4 pipe crossings and grant application statuses. Operations and office reports covered infrastructure maintenance, safety training compliance, FMLA employee contribution approvals, and an increase to the organizational credit card limit. Discussions were held regarding an exit policy and safety programs for flume access. The meeting concluded with executive session deliberations on personnel compensation and the final approval of accounts payable.

The agenda items for the meeting include a Manager's Report covering water and financial reports, an Operations Report, and an Office Report. Old Business discussions involve the ongoing Flume Discussion and the Fee Schedule. New Business topics consist of the 2026 Irrigation Season Outlook with Jeremy Griffin, the Water Season 2026 Startup, a Modernization Update with Kevin Crew, and a discussion on SDAO Law. The meeting also includes an Open Forum segment for public comment and concludes with a scheduled Executive Session to consider employment matters and conduct negotiations for real property transactions.