Des Moines Water Works

The committee reviewed a detailed presentation regarding the workers' compensation program, including claims data from 2023-2025 and an explanation of the invoice review process. Financial updates included preparations for an upcoming audit by Eide Bailly, LLP, the annual Capital Improvement Program update for Central Iowa Water Works, and a report on the current status of the nitrate removal facility operations.

The Planning Committee reviewed an overview of the Water Main Replacement Program, focusing on the data-driven and risk-based approach used to prioritize system upgrades, maintain reliability, and manage lifecycle costs. The operational update included a report on the restart of the nitrate removal facility due to increased concentrations in source waters and the status of ongoing infrastructure repairs at the McMullen Aquifer Storage and Recovery well and the Saylorville facility. Additionally, the operational impact of seasonal weather on water main breaks was discussed.

The board conducted a review of financial statements and operational updates. Key actions included authorizing a purchase agreement for engineering furniture, soliciting bids for multiple water main replacement contracts, and approving reimbursements for city streetscape projects. The board adopted new standard specifications for water main construction and conducted public hearings to award contracts for various infrastructure improvements, including exterior painting, elevator modernization, and joint sealing. Additionally, the board approved contracts for well drilling services, accepted a completed chemical feed improvement project, authorized professional services for carbon dioxide expansion, and adopted a local match resolution for hazard mitigation grant applications. The CEO provided strategic updates, including progress on key performance indicators, lead service line initiatives, and responses to recent cold weather operational challenges.

The board authorized an agreement for property use with Raccoon Valley Little League, Inc. and approved the issuance of $6,000,000 in Water Revenue Capital Loan Notes for lead service line replacement. They approved a reimbursement to the City of Des Moines for water main replacement work and awarded multiple construction contracts for water main replacements, facility safety showers, and a control room upgrade. Additionally, the board approved license agreements for farm land and hay harvesting at Maffitt Reservoir, authorized the solicitation of bids for SCADA improvements, and approved professional services agreements for design and expansion projects. Reports were provided regarding finance, planning, CIWW highlights, and park foundation activities, followed by updates on water quality, legislative tracking, and bridge feasibility studies.

The meeting focused on the review and refinement of a proposed water use plan designed to address water shortage protocols. Key discussion topics included the introduction of a new Stage Zero conservation phase, the implementation of a color-coded stage system based on weather alert standards, and the clarification of roles and decision-making authority between the Board of Trustees, the technical committee, and operating contractors during potential emergency water supply conditions. The committee also discussed strategies for uniform public communication, coordination with regional stakeholders and the Department of Natural Resources, and specific guidelines regarding lawn watering, splash pad operations, and vegetation irrigation.