Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA)

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a clarification that the session was held virtually, pursuant to executive orders regarding physical quorum requirements due to the public health situation, with anticipation that the July meeting might require a physical quorum. Housekeeping notes were provided concerning virtual presentation procedures and public submission of questions. The agenda approval was handled, followed by awards and presentations recognizing employees for years of service and for being Employee of the Month for April, May, and June 2020. Key discussions in the public hearing section involved informational presentations from sponsored community organizations, specifically the Kissimmee Valley Livestock Show and Fair, detailing their 2020 event successes, increased attendance despite the pandemic context, and utilization of sponsorship funds for marketing and student days. Osceola Arts also provided an update on the impact of the closure since March, noting cancellations, program rescheduling, facility maintenance during downtime, and the critical importance of community support to remain operational.

The meeting included logistical announcements related to public access and participation during the COVID-19 crisis. The agenda was approved with a modification to remove an item regarding the approval of a third amendment to board policy directive d 11-03. Awards and presentations were given to recognize employees for their achievements and years of service. The board discussed participation in the Florida Utilities Alliance for purchasing agreements and approved an extension for the purchase of wires and cables. The third quarter financial report for fiscal year 2020 was presented, highlighting sales, financial strength, and the use of rate stabilization.

The meeting included discussion of custody accounts, plan assets, and cash flow summaries. Topics included contributions, distributions, and online access for individuals. There was a review of plan assets as of May, including assets under custody by Regions, totaling $90.3 million across five separate accounts. The discussion covered fiscal year-to-date cash flow, contributions, and distributions, with a comparison between the current and previous plan years. Also, there were updates on personnel, financial performance, and investment team additions, including the appointment of a new chief operating officer and chief compliance officer.

The meeting addressed technical difficulties at the start. The board discussed a customer satisfaction survey conducted at the beginning of last month. A financial update was provided, including a comparison of megawatt-hour sales and revenues from April 2020 to April 2019, and data related to the impact of the pandemic, including customers eligible for interruption and payment arrangements.

The meeting included discussions and modifications to the agenda, such as the withdrawal of Crystal Harris from consideration for a board seat and the movement of Michael Couric to fill that slot. Service awards were presented to Luis Rodriguez, Matt Mason, and Terry Biller, and Erika Gwen was recognized as the July employee of the month. A public hearing was held for the recommended FY 2021 operating and capital budget, with a presentation detailing the budget timeline and key components. The budget reflects a three percent increase from 2020, with no projected staffing or base rate increases over the five-year plan. The board also discussed and approved the seventh amendment to the KOS commercial paper program for the extension of the note purchase agreement with JPMorgan. Cindy Herrera provided an update on Human Resources, highlighting safety enhancements, financial wellness initiatives, and COVID-19-related measures.