Tacoma Public Utilities

The meeting involved discussion and a vote regarding Resolution U10657, which contemplates a letter of agreement to amend the current collective bargaining agreement with the Professional and Technical Employees Local 17 union. The agreement finalized market-based wages for 2013, resulting in a flat 5% increase for 2013 in lieu of a market increase, plus a one-time lump sum payment of $11,000 to each employee. The agreement also resolves the accretion of the collection systems worker classification into the unit and establishes a new lab scientist series. Board members expressed significant concern regarding salary compression affecting non-represented employees who have not received raises for over four and a half years.

The board meeting segment primarily focused on comments and a presentation regarding the juvenile fish collection facility at the Cushman Dam complex. The presentation detailed the recent launch of the surface collector, which involved innovative, cost-saving measures such as launching a $12 million net transition structure upside down before it rolled over in the water. Discussion highlighted the creativity and engineering ingenuity of the organization's employees in developing solutions, including a new design for wave attenuators that may be patented, and a redesign of stairs into adjustable ramps to accommodate changing reservoir levels. Board members expressed pride in the organization's stewardship of resources and the creative problem-solving culture demonstrated in this and other projects, such as the water filtration plant.

The discussion centered around the 70th Anniversary of the Public Utility Board, highlighting the significant historical decisions made 70 years prior regarding resource purchases, dam construction for water resources, and railroad operations. Board members reflected on the legacy of citizen-led utility service and the rapid technological changes encountered over seven decades, emphasizing the continuous need for safe and reliable power, water, and rail service. Key accomplishments during a recent board tenure included approving the building of a gas station for locomotives, which now serves engines from both Tacoma Rail and Union Pacific and BNSF.

This document outlines the guiding principles for Tacoma Public Utilities and its Public Utility Board. The plan's core purpose is to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable utility services while ensuring an excellent customer and community experience. Key focus areas include demonstrating compassion and equity for customers, advancing carbon neutrality and sustainable resource management, maintaining financial stability, building resilience to environmental and market changes, and fostering a safe, inclusive workplace with opportunities for employee growth. The overarching vision is to be a trusted community partner delivering equitable, affordable, clean, and reliable services essential to the quality of life.

The Public Utility Board meeting addressed key resolutions and reports. Resolution U-11438 authorized an increase to a contract with Inertia Engineering and Machine Works, LLC, for the purchase of 25kV distribution switches, with discussion clarifying the unit cost and annual escalation clause. Resolution U-11439 authorized the execution of an updated telecommunications site license agreement with Crown Castle GT Company, LLC, for operating a tower on the North End Reservoir site, noting this agreement differs from the standard colocation template. The Director provided a summary of staff response to public comments from the prior meeting. The Board convened in executive session to discuss the performance of a public employee.