Cumberland County Utilities Authority

The Director's report detailed the completion of a cost analysis for cleaning digester tanks, determining that outside contracting is the most efficient solution, with bidding expected by July 2013. Discussions included employee savings plans, exploring potential grant money for workforce training from the Workforce Investment Board, and meeting with the New Jersey Business and Industry Association regarding business attraction strategies. The Authority dealt with a permit violation for coliform bacteria linked to high discharges from Buona Vita, resulting in a $33,000 penalty. The transition to a new quarterly billing system was noted, with most users receiving credits. The NJDEP audit was completed, and resolutions were presented to acknowledge the 2012 Audit Report review, award a contract for polymer supply, and appoint CME Associates as Consulting Engineers. The Auditor confirmed the 2012 financial statements received a clean (unqualified) opinion with no required compliance findings. The General Counsel reported on reviewing proposed changes to the Federal Prison User Agreement and preparing opinions regarding health insurance qualifications and loan documents.

Key discussions during the meeting included the submission of Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMR) for June and July 2014, reporting compliance with discharge limits for those months, and noting the recovery of ammonia levels following an earlier plant upset. Amendments to the "Budget Line Items" are complete and awaiting Finance and Budget Committee review. Sludge hauling logistics were reviewed, noting a temporary move back to Cumberland Nurseries in mid-September. Permit modifications are being made for food processors regarding ammonia reporting and cleaning compound inventory. An issue with clogging at the Cubby Hollow pumping station due to prohibited solid waste from Cumberland Manor Nursing Home was addressed, with a corrective letter being drafted. A resolution was passed appointing Karen Doran Davis as the temporary purchasing agent. The Engineer reported the initiation of planning for the replacement of the Seabrook Pump Station. The General Counsel reported on the status of the clarifier lawsuit, noting defendants were served. Finally, resolutions were passed approving the appointment of a temporary purchasing agent and authorizing payment of operating account vouchers.

The meeting agenda covered multiple key areas, including reports from the Director, Engineer, Auditor, General Counsel, and various committees. The Director reported on meeting compliance with the August DMR, salary discussions with employee representatives, and serious operational issues stemming from suspended leachate delivery by CCIA, which upset the plant biology. Notices of violations will be issued to Cumberland Dairy and Bona Vita for O&G limits. Resolutions passed included authorizing transfers and adjustments in the 2012 Budget, amending the Upper Deerfield Sewer Force Main Replacement Project contract to include Change Order #2 (resulting in a decrease in contract price), and authorizing revised User Agreements, which are set to become effective January 1, 2013. The Treasurer's report showed revenues exceeding expenses for the first eight months of 2012. The Board also authorized payments from the Operating Account and the CCUA NJEIT 2010 Construction Fund. The Secretary's resignation, effective October 1, 2012, was announced.

The meeting addressed several key items, including the Director's report on meeting the July Discharge Monitoring Report parameters, a positive update on the eleven-year accident-free safety record, and ongoing work on 2012 budget adjustments. Staff is preparing for the Cumberland County Improvement Authority (CCIA) cessation of discharge by year-end and collaborating with the City of Bridgeton for FEMA reimbursement related to July storm damage. Key resolutions approved the establishment of an employment agreement for the Deputy Director, Michael Fernandez, and the approval of a land application agreement with Cumberland Nurseries L.L.C. for sludge disposal. The Engineer provided updates on the Upper Deerfield Force Main Project negotiations and noted that all permits are secured for the Fiscal Year 2013 Treatment Plant Upgrade Project. The General Counsel reported on drafting new, uniform customer contracts to be implemented by January 1, 2013. Financial reports showed revenues exceeding expenses for the first seven months of 2012, and resolutions were passed authorizing payments from the Operating Account and the CCUA NJEIT 2010 Construction Fund.

The meeting agenda included a reorganization segment covering the appointment of a temporary chairman, nominations and resolutions for the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for 2014, and the appointment of 2014 Committees. Reports were scheduled from the Director, Engineer, Auditor, General Counsel, and various committees. Resolutions addressed the approval of the annual schedule of regular monthly meetings and the approval of specifications and authorization for advertisement for bids for the supply and delivery of polymer. Financial discussions included the Treasurer's Report, specifically the cash position and a resolution approving payment of operating account vouchers totaling $204,715.65.