Newport Borough Water Authority

Key discussions included the Engineer's Report, which detailed progress on the Sixth Street project, required signatures for the Buffalo Crossing Highway Occupancy Permit, and the award of a partial grant for the Walnut Street project, prompting the approval for ENTECH to design the full scope from Front Street to Fourth Street. Operational reports covered leak detection from frozen pipes, potential service separation for a commercial entity (Giant), and scheduling a one-year review for the DEP river plant inspection. The Treasurer's report for January was approved, along with the January bills and adjustment report. New Business covered insurance renewals, with the Board electing to remain with current plans despite rate increases, and an update on an operator's licensing progress.

The meeting included a presentation on an alternative energy plan involving a solar farm. Discussions covered the meter replacement project, including USDA approval, public notifications, billing estimates, and change-out forms. The delivery of Well #1 pump has been delayed. An intent to award letter has been issued for the 5th Street project. PennDOT has requested a sign off on utilities for the Market to 6th & 6th Street project. A new rate letter for 2022 was approved. A large water leak was found and repaired. The annual Consumer Confidence report has been completed. Proposed Borough water policies were discussed, including requirements for lead or copper pipe replacement before renting, water testing before property sales, and occupancy restrictions after water shut-offs. A discount was approved for the Fairgrounds connection.

Discussions during the meeting included updates from the Engineer regarding the Sixth Street 30% submittal, the Buffalo Crossing developer meeting, and the ongoing evaluation of projects for the Capital Improvements Program. The Operational Report noted the resolution of a compliance issue at 57 N Second St and plans to issue a boil water notice for the Giant Food store plaza for maintenance. The Treasurer's Report for November was approved. Old business involved reviewing how commercial properties are charged based on Equivalent Dwelling Units (EDUs) versus residential charging structures, and confirming the date change for the Christmas party. New business included confirmation that the audit fieldwork was completed.

The meeting included discussions on the Sixth Street project, Buffalo Crossing development, Walnut Street project, and Well #1 filter replacement. The Capital Improvements Program was evaluated, and a Tapping Fee analysis was approved. Operational updates included the completion of the Newport Assembly of God connection, a quote on membranes from Veolia, monitoring a potential leak at the Giant store, and repairs to leaks on Mason Lane and at Newport Tavern. Pennsylvania American Waters is considering taking over other water companies. The board also discussed commercial EDUs, rescheduling the Christmas party, and a presentation on Tyler Technologies software suites. A board member attended a PMAA conference and reported on grant opportunities and lead pipe inventory.

Key discussions during the meeting included approving ENTECH as the Authority's engineer. Engineering reports covered ongoing work on the Sixth Street project, a review of the Buffalo Crossing concept plan, and the NPDES permit renewal application, which the Board approved with a $500 fee. Operational reports detailed a water-main leak near Hillside Manor, a planned repair to the Giant's fire service requiring a temporary shutoff, and a decision to cut the water line in the street for a property at 300 Dock St. due to illegal water restoration after non-payment, requiring law enforcement presence. New business involved the distribution of Ethics forms, the reappointment of all Board members to their current positions, and the reappointment of the Authority's attorney. The Board also reviewed payment history for an owner complaint regarding fees at 524 Market St. The review of the Water ordinance was tabled.