St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 2

Key discussion points included the maintenance report detailing meter checklist progress following the total meter change out, analysis of water loss, and completion of a required MRT site addition after the Sanitary Survey. A contractor reported on larger meter change outs, a fire main leak repair, and a main break repair, suggesting the use of temporary meters for flow detection. The Board prioritized pressure testing lines underneath the Teche and investigating strap meters to address water loss. Board members were reminded to complete mandatory Sexual Harassment and Ethics training for the new calendar year. An update on Capital Outlay was requested from the Parish Councilman. A joint plant update noted that a clarifier will require future replacement. Recommendations were made to graph water loss peaks to identify trends and to identify and meter all fire lines. The Board recognized employees for their excellent preparation for the Sanitary Survey.

The meeting involved the acceptance of Accounts Payable and Treasurer's Report. Key operational discussions included the maintenance report detailing updates to sample sites, completed year-end inventory, a discovered water leak on Pluto that was fixed, and successful annual fire hydrant testing by the fire department. Specific maintenance tasks included the replacement of a fire hydrant and smoke testing on David & Teche Rd. A joint plant update confirmed the plant is running well, with continued interest in acquiring underground storage. The Capital Outlay request was submitted, and the PIL rating improved from class 6 to class 4 following annual fire hydrant testing. Employee salaries were discussed and increased, and the proposed budget for the 2025-2026 year was accepted. The board also discussed replacing the office's terminated Walmart credit card program but tabled the decision.

Key discussions during the meeting included maintenance reports detailing efforts to locate water loss, preparation for the upcoming Sanitary Survey scheduled for December 11th, and updates on hydrant replacements and repairs. A joint plant update confirmed the plant is running well, with continued interest in acquiring underground storage pending grant money acquisition. The board also discussed pending updates on Capital Outlay. A policy was established regarding repeated customer issues with meter lids and satellite dishes, stipulating that the first replacement is free, but subsequent replacements will be charged back to the customer at cost plus a labor fee.

The Board of Commissioners convened for a regular session, addressing various maintenance and financial matters. Larry Fromenthal presented a maintenance report, detailing the replacement of a check valve and a meter, along with ongoing efforts to address water loss. Alexis Hartman also provided a maintenance report, noting routine maintenance and meter change outs. An update was given on roof work, with the board awaiting grant money. The board discussed calibrating the plant's meter due to water loss. A sewer cost increase for Wards 5 & 8, effective October 1st, was approved, leading to a rate increase of $1.50 per 1,000. The board also requested a rate study with LRWA, anticipating a waiting period.

The meeting included discussion of maintenance reports, including valve installations, sewer line repairs, and meter change outs. Progress on the Arlington Project was noted, and the board discussed reapplying for Capital Outlay in October. The board decided against purchasing a remote display for water tower levels due to cost. The auction of old meters was completed, and the board approved placing the Walmart account on AutoPay. The commission received a water grade of 104/100, the best in the parish. Alexis Hartman and Jason Scott received their Level 1 certifications and will begin working on Level 2 certifications in July.