Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District

The meeting focused on the review and acceptance of financial statements, check registers, and investment reports. The committee also received an update on the 2025 audit process, including the completion of pre-audit work and a discussion regarding the upcoming Request for Proposal process to acquire a new auditing firm following the retirement of the previous auditor.

The meeting included a presentation providing an update on revisions made to the District Secure Login website, detailing changes to the interface, user experience, workflows, and security improvements. Key action items involved approving a contract for strategic planning and facilitation services with The Langdon Group, which required a budget amendment of $32,730, and approving a support services contract with Lee Miller of Laradise Law and Policy for consultation on Federal Reclamation Law and Policy and Colorado River Issues. Furthermore, the Board authorized Special Water Counsel to file a Statement of Opposition regarding the Titan AU, Inc. Amended Application (Case No. 25CW3012), and also authorized filing a Statement of Opposition to the Town of Buena Vista's Application (Case No. 25CW3069) to ensure Project Water is not used improperly for replacement of historical return flows. A report from the United States Bureau of Reclamation detailed current storage levels in key reservoirs, including Pueblo, Turquoise Lake, and Twin Lakes, noting system storage was at 101% of average.

The committee reviewed updates regarding the James W. Broderick Hydropower Plant, specifically focusing on ongoing mechanical repairs, Programmable Logic Center upgrades, and the installation of shut-off valves. The 2026 proposed budget was presented, emphasizing priorities such as infrastructure maintenance, water rights protection, fiscal management, and hydro development goals. Reports were provided on the Pueblo Reservoir sedimentation study and the measurement structure design projects for the Hunter Collection System, which aim to improve system efficiency and collection yield. Additionally, the committee acted to recommend the inclusion of specific land annexations by the City of Colorado Springs into the District, subject to established terms and conditions.

The Board meeting included a presentation on the 2026 Adopted Budget publication and the adoption of the Open Meeting Resolution No. 2026-01D. Key actions involved authorizing Special Water Counsel to file a Statement of Opposition in Case No. 25CW3177 regarding the Shoshone Applicants, and to execute a stipulation with the Donala Water and Sanitation District in Case No. 24CW3019. Additionally, the Board reviewed reports from the United States Bureau of Reclamation regarding water storage data and received various informational items, including scheduling for the 2026 annual conference and committee meetings.

The committee reviewed and recommended awarding a contract for design services for spur and delivery lines to 18 participants to Kennedy Jenks, citing their strong approach and schedule management. Discussion covered securing Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding, utilizing State Revolving Fund loans, and applying for Colorado Water Conservation Board grants. An update on construction progress for the Reclamation AVC Sub-Project, including Boone Reach statuses and the injection site, was provided. Additionally, reports were shared regarding a recent public hearing for a Public Needs Assessment and a participants meeting held in Rocky Ford.