Vera Water And Power District

This document serves as a reporting template for a Clean Energy Implementation Plan, outlining compliance criteria and requirements for consumer-owned utilities under RCW 19.405.060 and WAC 194-40-200. The plan mandates the development of four-year targets for renewable energy, non-emitting resources, energy efficiency, and demand response. A core focus is on ensuring an equitable transition, which includes identifying highly impacted communities and vulnerable populations, forecasting cost and benefit distribution, and detailing specific actions to address environmental health disparities and reduce risks. The plan must align with the utility's integrated resource plan and clean energy action plan.

The Board reviewed the District's cash statements for October and discussed the cost of materials and their effect on budgeted items. District expenditures and payroll for October were approved. Directors discussed annual revenue and COLA projections. The Board declared Directors Wilhite and Wulf as unchallenged and elected. The 2021 Proposed Budget was presented, including discussions on construction, growth provisions, the impact of Covid-19, cash on hand requirements, potential water rights acquisition, BPA's rate increases, and grant options for updating the water meter system. The General Manager will provide additional information for further discussion at the next meeting.

The Board discussed the re-organization of the board, nominating Director Hess as Chair and Director Schmedding as Vice-Chair for 2022. The Treasurer's Report was presented, highlighting that the unrestricted cash was higher than anticipated at budget preparation time. The Board certified payables and payroll for December. The Board discussed the process for finding a replacement for the General Manager, desiring outside help with the process to be completed by the end of October. Water rate increase proposals were presented to address the deficit discussed during the recent budget process, and it was moved that the water rate increase be set at an overall average of 8%.

The meeting included discussions on water rights owned by the city of Millwood, the increasing presence of electric vehicles in the District, and the designation of surplus equipment for auction. The status of the office remaining open by appointment only was addressed due to ongoing security concerns. Updates were provided on correcting documents related to the District's water rights and the progress in selecting candidates for the General Manager position, with plans to accelerate the interview process. The Operations Report for May was reviewed, and the General Manager reported on conversations regarding water rights with Modern Electric and Water Company and the need to address the District's hourly pay rate compared to the local average by potentially opening the current IBEW contract.