Des Moines Water Works

The committee meeting covered the operations of Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) wells, including an overview of their history, usage, and current construction status at the Polk County Pumping Station. Additionally, a status update was provided regarding the Lead Service Line Contract and current nitrate concentration levels in the water sources.

The meeting focused on a review of the 2026 utility metrics at the end of the first quarter and an update on the progress of the annual audit, including the status of financial statements and footnotes. Additionally, the committee discussed the initiation of the 2027 budget process, staff training on Oracle software, and internal month-end procedures.

The board discussed several items, including authorization for a five-year strategic planning facilitation agreement, adoption of 2026 emergency water shortage rates, various construction and maintenance contracts, and the naming of the Prairie Meadows Knowledge Walk. Additionally, the board addressed the acceptance of project upgrades and the issuance of purchase orders for water treatment plant membrane replacements, and reviewed financial, committee, and operational reports, including updates on legislative sessions, water usage metrics, and safety incidents.

The board meeting addressed several agenda items, including the review of financial statements, list of payments, and CEO-approved expenditures. Key action items involved authorizing agreements for strategic planning, adopting emergency water shortage rates, and approving contracts for asphaltic concrete and concrete work. Additionally, the board considered change orders for lead service line replacements, the naming of the Prairie Meadows Knowledge Walk, and various infrastructure projects including HVAC, roof, and electrical system upgrades at treatment facilities. Further authorization was granted for the purchase of water treatment membranes and the execution of professional services agreements for SCADA improvements and design services for filter plant rehabilitation, along with ratification of flood improvement amendments. The board also received committee reports and updates on legislative matters and operational issues.

The committee discussed the proposed CIWW Water Use Plan and the necessary alignment updates for the DMWW Water Use Plan. Operational updates were provided regarding nitrate levels in the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, the Gallery, and the McMullen Water Treatment Plant, as well as the status of reservoir and well operations. Additionally, an announcement was made regarding an upcoming celebration event at the Arie den Boer Arboretum.