By: Lindsay Phillips
Bryan Board of Public Affairs began their meeting on November 15 at 5:00 p.m. Minutes from the previous meeting on November 1 were approved by the board, as well ask the clerk treasurer’s report.
Bryan Police Chief Greg Ruskey approached the podium and asked to use city power for the new block cameras.
As a request of free service, one amp of power per camera to five out of the seven cameras was approved by the board. The remaining two cameras are battery or solar powered.
Director of Utilities Nathan Gardner presented the 2023 Utility Budgets. Budgets were not yet approved by the board as it was an informative presentation.
Power Production Superintendent Jim Coressel went over power supply, electric revenues, shavings analysis, electric expenses and projected results.
Electric Superintendent Al Sullivan addressed the Electrical Capital Improvement updates and upgrades needed.
Communications Superintendent Joe Ferrell spoke regarding the electric communications needs.
The total amount of the 2023 Electric Utility Capital Improvements is $2,690,700.
Operations manager, Derek Schultz talked about the Water O&M Utility Budget, including water revenues, expenses, projected operating results and debt service.
Water Superintendent Jimmy Dunning covered water capital improvements including treatment and distribution as well as the utility office.
Schultz approached the podium again on behalf of Resolution 45-2022, authorizing the Director of Utilities to apply for an Emergency Generator Equipment Grant.
Schultz stated, “The Ohio EPA is now offering a grant opportunity for emergency generator equipment with an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars.” With a November 21 deadline, the board adopted Resolution 45-2022.
A transfer from the 501 Electric Fund to the 515 Electric Capital Reserve Fund was approved by the board along with a transfer of funds from the 502 Water Fund to the 525 Water Capital Reserve Fund.
Following the approval of semi-monthly disbursements, Attorney Rhonda Fisher spoke during comments from the board and staff.
Fisher stated, “I just want to say thank you for the opportunity to attend the conference last week, it was one of the better conferences I’ve been to.”
“Of course, the common thread on everyone’s lips that spoke the last three days was the supply chain issues and smart meters, conductors, transformers, you just can’t get them.”
Schultz requested and was given permission to post and begin the search for a GIS Coordinator.
Schultz stated, “We’d like to begin the recruitment process, the GIS Coordinator position will be responsible and accountable for the GIS system.”
Schultz added, “For those of you who don’t know, Jimmy is the Assistant Secretary Treasurer for the Ohio American Water Works Association.”
“I want to thank him and the Northwest District Board. They hosted a fall meeting this Thursday at the Hope Community Church, it was an opportunity for water professionals to continue their education, and learn about issues in the water industry.”
Bryan Board of Public Affairs closed out the evening by thanking all who presented the utility budget.
Hearing no other business, the meeting was adjourned.
Lindsay can be reached at lindsay@thevillagereporter.com