The board approved a $1.52 million pipeline repair contract and directed staff to proceed with a $48 million water treatment plant financing strategy through a federal WIFIA loan. Staff identified significant cost savings of $18-20 million in the treatment plant projects while still meeting capacity and safety requirements. The board also supported state legislation for low-income water rate assistance to help ratepayers manage infrastructure improvement costs.
The Board postponed approval of $5.8 million in construction management contracts for major infrastructure projects due to concerns about awarding management contracts before construction contracts, which differs from historical practice. Following recent political violence, safety protocols including "Run, Hide, Fight" procedures were discussed to enhance employee security. A new employee retention policy was approved offering financial incentives for workers who provide 6-24 months...
A water agency held a poorly attended public workshop on rate adjustments, prompting discussion of additional community outreach efforts. The Pine Grove Community Services District formally requested the agency take over their water services due to rising costs and governance challenges. Staff identified $6 million in potential project savings through value engineering by deferring non-critical capacity expansion components at treatment facilities.
The agency is considering 5-9% annual rate increases for five years to fund $19 million in critical infrastructure upgrades to aging water systems. Current 4% increases only cover half the needed improvements, while wastewater rates may rise 3-5% annually to address 1970s-era system deficiencies. The agency has secured $3 million in grants and is pursuing a WIFIA loan for additional low-interest financing.
