Northwest Bergen County Utility Authority

The meeting and public hearing were convened to discuss and adopt the 2011 connection fee rate adjustment. The Board reviewed an auditor's report detailing the calculation of the connection fee based on net investment in the sanitary sewer collection and treatment system. It was determined that the calculated cost per service unit was $3,974, and the Board approved a resolution to implement a 50% reduction, setting the final connection fee at $1,987 per EDU. The testimony of experts in accounting and engineering was incorporated into the record to validate the methodology used in the report.

The board discussed and approved several resolutions including the retention of the Authority's auditor, consulting engineers, bond counsel, and general/labor counsel for 2011. Key actions included approving the regular employment status for two employees, authorizing the Authority to join the Sewage Sludge Incinerator Advocacy Coalition to appeal EPA regulations, and approving two sanitary sewer extensions in the Township of Mahwah. Committee reports covered facility operations, capacity and flow, incinerator rebuild updates, inter-municipal service charges, and financial investment strategies. Additionally, the board reviewed plans for website transparency enhancements and the 2010 annual report.

The board convened to discuss the 2023 Authority Budget. The discussion included an overview of the introduced budget, the financial impact of the increased State Health Benefits Program premiums, and efforts to control administrative costs while boosting revenue. The board officially passed Resolution No. 93-2022 regarding the 2023 Authority Budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2023.

The board discussed professional services contracts, specifically focusing on the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process for legal services and the need to align contract agreements with county requirements, such as establishing hourly rates rather than retainers. There was extensive discussion regarding the Franklin Lakes Project, including engineering services to be provided by T&M Associates and legal services by Douglas Bern, Esq. The board also reviewed the procedure for qualifying professional firms and explored potential shared services with other county agencies.

The board meeting included comprehensive updates from the treasurer, general counsel, consulting engineer, authority engineer, and executive director regarding various operational aspects. The board approved resolutions 30-2026 through 31-2026, which authorized the payment of vouchers, payroll, tax deposits, and benefits, and approved a sewer connection and extension for a property located in the Borough of Waldwick.