Board Meeting: July 7, 2024 @ 9:00 AM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Lisa Woodruff, Nancy Martin, Harry Johnston, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Jennifer Arp, Corey Ghorley, Beth Jones, Keith Allen, Garry Hensley, Bryan Watkins, Mark Cochran, Jamie Veley, Leo Baker, Greg Long, Jody Henson, Shayne Fowler, Sharon Clark, Jeff Hooper, Eric Wright, Ryan Sarks, Sarah Skinner, and Carleton Sherrer.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1.  AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY DWAYNE FOWLER, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2.  DARRELL CAUDILL NOTED THAT IT WAS TIME FOR THE ANNUAL ELECTION OF OFFICERS.

Mr. Caudill opened the floor for nominations for Chair of the CCWSA Board of Directors.

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO NOMINATE ERIC WILMARTH AS CHAIR OF THE CCWSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS. All members voted for the motion.

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS AND RE-ELECT ERIC WILMARTH AS CHAIR OF THE CCWSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS. All members voted for the motion.

Mr. Caudill opened the floor for nominations for Vice-Chair of the CCWSA Board of Directors.

MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO NOMINATE BARRY MANSELL AS VICE-CHAIR OF THE CCWSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS. All members voted for the motion.

MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS AND RE-ELECT BARRY MANSELL AS VICE-CHAIR OF THE CCWSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS. All members voted for the motion.

Mr. Caudill opened the floor for nominations for Secretary of the CCWSA Board of Directors.

MOTION BY BECKY DABBS AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO NOMINATE LISA WOODRUFF AS SECRETARY OF THE CCWSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS. All members present voted for the motion.

MOTION BY BECKY DABBS AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS AND RE-ELECT LISA WOODRUFF AS SECRETARY OF THE CCWSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS. All members voted for the motion.

3.  SARAH SKINNER OF THE METROPOLITAN NORTH GEORGIA WATER PLANNING DISTRICT EXTENDED APPRECIATION TO DAVID KUBALA FOR HIS SERVICE AS DESIGNEE TO THE METRO DISTRICT BOARD SINCE 2006, AND HIS INVOLVEMENT IN THE METRO DISTRICT’S PLANNING PROCESS SINCE 2001. Ms. Skinner noted that Metro District Chair Glen Page was unable to attend today’s meeting, but Ms. Skinner read words of appreciation from Mr. Page to Mr. Kubala for his involvement with the Metro District Board.

4.  GARRY HENSLEY NOTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF A PETITION FOR EXTENSION OF WATER MAIN FROM RESIDENTS OF DRY POND ROAD/WILD AZALEA TRAIL. Mr. Hensley noted that 32 residents have signed the petition (with two residents currently out of water). Mr. Hensley noted an approximate total footage of 14,444 feet for this extension (9,574 feet of 4” HDPE pipe and 4,870 feet of 3” PVC pipe), an estimated task cost of the line of $86,664.00, and a total purchase meter cost of $80,000.00. Mr. Hensley noted there are 70 properties in the extension area, and 69 total properties with road frontage.

MOTION BY JOHN WORKMAN AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF APPROXIMATELY 9,574 FEET OF 4” HDPE WATER MAIN AND 4,870 FEET OF 3” PVC WATER MAIN FOR THE DRY POND ROAD/WILD AZALEA TRAIL AREA AT AN APPROXIMATE COST TO THE AUTHORITY OF $86,664.00. All members voted for the motion.

5.  MOTION BY JOHN WORKMAN AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO APPROVE THE 6/24/24 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

6. BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCIAL REPORT. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating revenues are approximately $462,903.00 above budget projections for the period ending 5/31/24. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating expenses are approximately $2,071,006.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $11,995,884.00 for the period ending 5/31/24.

7.  LEO BAKER PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT IN THE ABSENCE OF CLINT BLACKWELL. Mr. Baker reported an average daily treatment of 26.298 MGD for the month of June 2024 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Baker reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.2 ft. Mr. Baker reported a cumulative rainfall total of 49.21” for the past twelve months.

8.  JAMIE VELEY PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT IN THE ABSENCE OF MIKE VENTERS. Mr. Veley reported an average daily treatment of 2.4 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of 4.0 MG. Mr. Veley reported an average daily treatment of 5.3 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.310 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

9.  JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT. Mrs. Arp noted that no spills or overflows occurred during this reporting period.

10.  GARRY HENSLEY PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT. Mr. Hensley noted that Authority crews have completed work on Holly Springs Parkway, Reavis Mountain Road, and Cherry Grove Road.

11.  DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT. MR. FOWLER REFERENCED CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FROM JOHN GASKIN, VICE PRESIDENT OF PATRICK MALLOY COMMUNITIES. In this correspondence, Mr. Gaskin noted that his company, Patrick Malloy Communities, has had numerous meetings with CCWSA regarding ways to bring sewer to the 270-acre Brooks Family Property he has under contract for a 235-lot residential development located on Julius Bridge Road.

Mr. Gaskin further noted in his correspondence that, based on studies, he has found that many of the alternative concepts running northerly to the existing CCWSA plant located on Cokers Chapel Road will require easements that have not been secured or negotiated, the cost of these easements is not known, and there is no guarantee that they can be obtained within the contractual timelines Mr. Gaskin’s company is under. Some of the alternatives would require a lift station to be located on the Turner property in locations Mr. Turner will not allow because of the visibility from his home, and would allow access too far into his property or could interfere with his cattle. Mr. Turner’s property also contains a mitigation bank (described in detail below) running across the entire length of his property along Buzzard Creek and Smithwick Creek that restricts any sewer easement crossing to two locations. In addition, Mr. Gaskin has determined that due to the extraordinary distances that gravity lines and force mains would have to be run, plus the sizing of the lift station pumps needed to serve the force mains for systems running northerly to the Cokers Chapel Road plant, is becoming cost prohibitive for a 235-residential lot project.

Mr. Gaskin further noted in his correspondence that the only concept that will work for his company from a cost and timing perspective is shown on Attachment A. This concept has been presented to the Brooks and Turner families for some time. It meets Mr. Gaskin’s firm’s costs and contractual constraints, plus Mr. Gaskin has significant progress in securing the off-site easements and lift station location on the Turner property.

This concept requires approximately 1,700 LF of gravity line from the Brooks property entering the Turner property at Julius Bridge Road and Buzzard Flapper Creek, running to a new lift station located at the confluence of Buzzard Flapper Creek and Smithwick Creek, then approximately 4,900 LF of force main to the existing Belmont Lift Station.

PMC built the existing Belmont Lift Station and force main and dedicated it to CCWSA a few years ago at no cost to CCWSA. Based on actual usage, there is existing capacity remaining. PMC would like to make use of that capacity for the Brooks property since they had incurred the cost of that lift station.

Listed below are issues either affecting the off-site sewer design or demonstrate the detail of the negotiations and terms of agreement in concept that PMC has reached with Mr. Turner:
1) PMC is obligated under contractual deadlines with the Brooks family that compress their timetables making it nearly, if not impossible, to secure easements with Georgia Power and other private property owners that would be required to construct any of the alternatives PMC visited that would take the sewer lines north. None of these easements have been secured and, in some cases, no conversation has even begun regarding the terms and costs of these easements.
2) There is an existing conservation easement for a mitigation bank on Mr. Turner’s property (see attached cover sheet “Declaration of Conservation Covenant and Restrictions” between various members of the Turner family and the City of Canton and Cobb County Water Authority, Deed Book 12159 page 274 Cherokee County Records (Conservation Easement). The CE document does not allow borings under or new easements across the existing mitigation bank area with the exception of two defined permitted crossing areas shown on Attachment A, making any routing running north further complicated and made more difficult
3) Mr. Turner has confined the area he will allow a new lift station on his property given the fact that he currently has cattle on the property and will allow only limited access on his property for CCWSA or any other entity that would need access to the future lift station to be built on his property. Therefore, he has limited the location of the new lift station to the south side of the confluence of Buzzard Flapper Creek and Smithwick Creek. This location will not work with several of the proposed concepts going north.
4) PMC and Mr. Turner have negotiated certain terms and conditions in principal and preliminarily agreed upon using the routing, easements and lift station location shown on Exhibit A. Listed below is a list of terms negotiated and/or discussed in detail with Mr. Turner:
a) There shall be a permanent 20 ft. sewer easement and 35 ft. permanent access easement to the lift station proposed for Mr. Turner’s property for approximately 1,700 LF of gravity sewer line and 4,900 LF of force main line located as shown on Exhibit A.
b) There shall be a Fee Simple Site, approximately 70 ft. x 70 ft. in size, purchased from Mr. Turner for the purpose of the proposed lift station shown on Exhibit A.
c) All easements and lift station site shall be recorded using CCWSA easement agreements so no assignments need to be made. All easements, gravity and force main lines, lift station and Fee Simple Lift Station Site shall be dedicated to CCWSA at no cost to CCWSA.
d) PMC shall construct a gate and a service entrance road located off Julius Bridge Road at the intersection of Julius Bridge and Buzzard Flapper Creek in order to provide service access to the proposed lift station.
e) The Vehicular Service Access Easement to the lift station (surface material to be agreed upon by Mr. Turner and CCWSA shall be provided from gate at Julius Bridge to the proposed lift station). A separate access agreement can be reached by all parties if necessary. PMC shall be responsible for construction.
f) The access road and easement shall require a fence (to be installed by PMC) running against the edge of the mitigation bank.
g) All access easements and rights of usage associated with the road shall be conveyed to CCWSA at no cost to CCWSA.
h) PMC and Mr. Turner have agreed in principal on the method of determining the cost of the easements (sewer, construction and access) and the lift station fee simple site. A purchase agreement can be executed in a short time between PMC and Mr. Turner once CCWSA approves the concept. This enables PMC to meet Purchase and Sale Agreement contractual obligations and timing. CCWSA shall incur no expense in preparing these documents nor in the conveyance and dedication of easements and facilities.

Mr. Gaskin noted in his correspondence that he appreciates the efforts and alternatives that CCWSA has discussed with PMC’s team over the past months. PMC would like to request that this issue be presented to the CCWSA Board for review so that PMC may hopefully move forward with approval.

Dwayne Fowler noted that this is the first reading of this issue.

12.  LISA WOODRUFF RECUSED HERSELF FROM THE MEETING DUE TO CONFLICT OF INTEREST WITH THE NEXT ITEM ON THE AGENDA.

13.  DWAYNE FOWLER REFERENCED CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FROM W.L. PRANCE, SR. OF RIVERSTONE PROPERTIES, LLC. In this correspondence, Mr. Prance noted that the Developer Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure Expansion Agreement dated 8/14/19 between CCWSA and Riverstone Properties, LLC is set to expire 8/14/24.

Riverstone Properties is requesting an extension of the agreement for an additional 5 years. Riverstone Properties agrees to pay the Authority $5,000.00 as an administration fee for the extension.

There are 252 taps available for the existing infrastructure. The total cost of the infrastructure is estimated as $315,628.02.

The carrying capacity of the infrastructure based on as-built surveys and CCWSA specifications has been determined to be 252 gallons per minute. Therefore, the total cost of the infrastructure divided by the minimum carrying capacity will determine the per ERU cost. The cost per ERU has been established at $1,252.49.

Riverstone Properties received one payment for $75,149.40 for 60 taps in 2021 (60 taps X $1,252.49 per tap).  Mr. Prance noted that, hopefully, this extension will allow Riverstone Properties to recover its cost via the remaining taps.

Darrell Caudill noted that, from a legal perspective, the Authority would not receive any additional consideration if this agreement were to be extended by 60 months, and any considerations are certainly not comparable to the considerations that the Authority received originally.

Mr. Caudill advised that the Authority should remain faithful to its policies. Mr. Caudill advised that if the Board were to choose to grant this request, adjustments to the Board’s existing policy should then be made, and other developers that have developer expansion agreements with the Authority would need to receive similar offers from the Authority.

IT WAS THE CONSENSUS OF THE BOARD TO ABIDE BY EXISTING POLICY. THEREFORE, THE REQUEST OF MR. PRANCE IS DENIED.

Mr. Fowler noted that he would inform Mr. Prance of the Board’s decision to abide by existing policy.

14.  DISCUSSION FOLLOWED CONCERNING CAPACITY ISSUES AND PEAK DEMANDS. Mr. Fowler noted that future options would be presented to the Board at a later date.

15.  MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO ADJOURN. All members voted for the motion.

Board Meeting: June 24, 2024 @ 4:00 PM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Nancy Martin, Harry Johnston, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Corey Ghorley, Clint Blackwell, Beth Jones, Jennifer Arp, Mark Cochran, Mike Venters, Melanie Stephens, Melissa Darvish, Jamie Veley, Greg Long, Ron Price, Joey Buice, Garry Hensley, Keith Allen, Bryan Watkins, Eric Wright, Sharon Clark, Jeff Hooper, and Jody Henson.

Member Lisa Woodruff was not present at the meeting.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1.  AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY HARRY JOHNSTON, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2.  GARRY HENSLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE HICKORY ROAD/HWY. 140/BATESVILLE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT AT A NEW ESTIMATED COST OF $200,000.00.

MOTION BY NANCY MARTIN AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO AUTHORIZE STAFF TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE HICKORY ROAD/HWY. 140/BATESVILLE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT AT A NEW ESTIMATED COST OF $200,000.00. All members present voted for the motion.

3.  MOTION BY HARRY JOHNSTON AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE 5/20/24 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members present voted for the motion.

4.  BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCE REPORT. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating revenues are approximately $485,042.00 below budget projections for the period ending 4/30/24. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating expenses are approximately $2,007,989.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $9,964,222.00 for the period ending 4/30/24.

5.  CLINT BLACKWELL PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Blackwell reported an average daily treatment of 20.926 MGD for the month of May 2024 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Blackwell reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.2 ft. Mr. Blackwell reported a cumulative rainfall total of 54.00” for the past twelve months.

6.  MIKE VENTERS PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 2.6 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of 2.7 MG. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 5.7 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.350 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

7.  JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT. Mrs. Arp noted that one wastewater spill occurred during this reporting period at Bells Ferry – Lake Tributary. Mrs. Arp noted that approximately 26,620 gallons were spilled due to a change in pipe material and rags. Mrs. Arp noted that Authority crews jetted the line to resolve the issue. Mrs. Arp noted that this location will be monitored for a period of one year.

8.  GARRY HENSLEY PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT. Mr. Hensley noted that Authority crews have completed the Reavis Mountain Road project and will begin working on the Cherry Grove Road project soon. Mr. Hensley noted that Authority crews are continuing work on the Holly Springs Parkway project.

9.  DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT. Mr. Fowler reported concerning peaks on the Authority’s system. Mr. Fowler noted that staff is monitoring the issue, and Mr. Fowler will report back to the Board with updates.

10.  MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO APPROVE THAT THE AUTHORITY ENTER INTO AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH CHEROKEE COUNTY CONCERNING THE BELLS FERRY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, PENDING COUNSEL’S APPROVAL OF THE AGREEMENT. ONCE THE AGREEMENT IS APPROVED, DWAYNE FOWLER IS AUTHORIZED TO EXECUTE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND CCWSA. All members present voted for the motion.

11.  MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO ADJOURN. All members present voted for the motion.

Board Meeting: May 20, 2024 @ 9:00 AM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Lisa Woodruff, Harry Johnston, Nancy Martin, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Corey Ghorley, Beth Jones, Clint Blackwell, Jennifer Arp, Greg Long, Keith Allen, Mark Cochran, Bryan Watkins, Mike Venters, Jamie Veley, Jody Henson, Eric Wright, Melissa Darvish, Melanie Stephens, Joey Buice, Garry Hensley, Ron Price, Shayne Fowler, Ryan Sarks, Jeff Hooper, Sharon Clark, and Clay Strovinskas.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1.  AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY NANCY MARTIN, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2.  COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF A BID FROM KAM CONTRACTING SOUTHEAST, LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,035,179.00 FOR THE RIVERCHASE SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (PHASE 2). Mr. Ghorley noted that this project was for the installation of 1,250 feet of 18” PVC sewer main across an area deemed as wetlands. Mr. Ghorley noted that this scope of work is listed as Item #2 under Asset Replacement on the Authority’s current CIP list with a total original estimated cost of $876,852.00.

Mr. Ghorley noted that the low bid received from Complete Site, LLC in the amount of $936,810.00 was deemed non-responsible per Contractor Qualification stipulations in the bid. Mr. Ghorley further noted that under Section 4.v of the “Instructions to Bidders”, bidders were required to demonstrate qualifications to perform the service to be bid upon by providing (5) owner or engineer of record references on similar projections with the last (5) years. Out of the five references provided by Complete Site, LLC, only (3) had sanitary sewer work involved. The reference contact for two of those five projects never returned request for reference. Mr. Ghorley noted that of the references that did respond, they stated that their projects were 8” sanitary sewer installed on mass graded site development projects.

Mr. Ghorley also noted that due to lack of references for similar projects, the low bidder did not meet the Responsibility requirements for procuring Public Works Construction Contracts as outlined by the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia. This Contractor also did not meet the minimum qualification requirements listed in the bid documents.

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY HARRY JOHNSTON TO FOLLOW STAFF RECOMMENDATION AND APPROVE THE BID OF KAM CONTRACTING SOUTHEAST, LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,035,179.00 FOR THE RIVERCHASE SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (PHASE 2). All members voted for the motion.

3.  COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF A PROPOSAL FROM ATKINS REALIS FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR THE RIVERCHASE SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (PHASE 2) IN THE AMOUNT OF $49,803.00.

MOTION BY NANCY MARTIN AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO APPROVE THE PROPOSAL FROM ATKINS REALIS FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR THE RIVERCHASE SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (PHASE 2) IN THE AMOUNT OF $49,803.00. All members voted for the motion.

4.  COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF A PROPOSAL FROM S&ME, INC. FOR MATERIALS AND COATINGS TESTING FOR THE FITZGERALD CREEK HEADWORKS IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $36,985.00.

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE PROPOSAL FROM S&ME, INC. FOR MATERIALS AND COATINGS TESTING FOR THE FITZGERALD CREEK HEADWORKS IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $36,985.00. All members voted for the motion.

5.  MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE 2025 CIP/FUTURE PROJECTS LISTING (ATTACHED) AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

6.  JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED A BOARD POLICY UPDATE. Mrs. Arp noted the following updates to existing Board policies:
1) CCWSA Safety Policy Manual: Corrected grammatical errors along with minor clarification as needed; Removed “Emergency Action Plan” from the title to avoid confusion with another document
2) CCWSA Fleet Policy Manual: Corrected grammatical errors along with minor clarification as needed; Renamed “Fleet Safety Program Manual” to “Fleet Policy Manual”; Changed equipment damage from $100 to $250
3) CCWSA Personnel Policy Handbook: Corrected grammatical errors along with minor clarification as needed; Renamed “Personnel Handbook” to “Personnel Policy Handbook”; Sick leave donation now includes caring for spouse and children; New hire probation period changed from 90 days to 180 days, per industry standard; Simplified probation period for disciplined employees (90) days; Updated fringe benefits to reflect current offerings; Clarified lunch periods; Changed equipment damage from $100 to $250 to match Fleet Policy
4) Updated the Meter Installation Policy – Removed employee names and used titles and updated contact numbers; Updated price from $50 to $100
5) Updated Payment of Sewer Tap Fees – Fees can only be paid after final approval and recording of the subdivision plat
6) Updated Septic Waste Hauler Regulations – Payments are due 15 days after the bill date
7) Amendment to Septic Hauler Rate – Updated to reflect rate changes passed September 2023 to $0.20 per gallon
8) Wholesale Policy Update – Reflects Board changes from April 2024
9) Updated Extending Water and/or Sewer Policy – Updated language to reflect water extensions are for drinking water only and attached a copy of the revised petition as an addendum

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO APPROVE THE BOARD POLICY UPDATES AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

7.  MOTION BY JOHN WORKMAN AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO APPROVE THE 4/29/24 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

8.  BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCE REPORT. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating revenues are approximately $316,971.00 below budget projections for the period ending 3/31/24. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating expenses are approximately $1,621,268.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported a year-to-date net income of $8,751,948.00 for the period ending 3/31/24.

9.  CLINT BLACKWELL PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Blackwell reported an average daily treatment of 19.777 MGD for the month of April 2024 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Blackwell reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.2 ft. Mr. Blackwell reported a cumulative rainfall total of 48.94” for the past twelve months.

10.  MIKE VENTERS PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 2.6 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of 2.8 MG. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 5.6 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.330 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

11.  JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT. Mrs. Arp noted that a wastewater spill occurred during this reporting period at Owl Creek at Buice Lake. Mrs. Arp reported that approximately 22,800 gallons were spilled due to construction debris. Authority crews cleared the line and monitoring will occur for a period of one year.

12.  GARRY HENSLEY PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT. Mr. Hensley noted that crews are continuing work on the Reavis Mountain Road project and the Holly Springs Parkway project.

13.  DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT. Mr. Fowler noted that he hopes to conduct a Board tour of the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility sometime next month.

14.  MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO ADJOURN. All members voted for the motion.

Board Meeting: April 29, 2024 @ 4:00 PM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Lisa Woodruff, Nancy Martin, Harry Johnston, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Corey Ghorley, Beth Jones, Jennifer Arp, Clint Blackwell, Jody Henson, Greg Long, Keith Allen, Mark Cochran, Melanie Stephens, Melissa Darvish, Jamie Veley, Tyler West, George Parks, Bryan Watkins, Jeff Hooper, Joey Buice, Eric Wright, Shayne Fowler, Ron Price, Lori Forrester, Rick Brown, Sharon Clark, Ryan Sarks, and Nathan Ingram.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1. AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY CLINT BLACKWELL, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2. DWAYNE FOWLER NOTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF THE FOLLOWING AWARDS:
• GAWP Education Program of Excellence – 2023
• GAWP Excellence in Communications Award – 2023
• Georgia Project WET (Water Education Today) Organization of the Year – 2023
• GAWP Platinum Award – Riverbend Water Pollution Control Plant – Calendar Year 2023
• GAWP Gold Award – Rose Creek Water Pollution Control Facility – Calendar Year 2023
• GAWP Platinum Award – Fitzgerald Creek Water Pollution Control Plant – Calendar Year 2023
• GAWP 2024 Certificate of Achievement for Municipal Water Reclamation Operations – Fitzgerald Creek WPCP
• GAWP Platinum Award – Etowah River Water Treatment Plant – Calendar Year 2023
• Rick Brown – GAWP Operator of the Year Award

The Board extended appreciation to Authority staff for achievement of these awards.

3. MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO APPROVE THE RELINQUISHMENT OF AN EASEMENT FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 3290 SIXES ROAD (PARCEL 15N08 044B) TO CHEROKEE GROWTH, LLC AS PRESENTED BY JEFF HOOPER. All members voted for the motion.

4. DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED A WHOLESALE CAPACITY POLICY RECOMMENDATION (ATTACHED). Mr. Fowler noted that, if approved, this revised wholesale capacity policy would become effective 6/1/24. Mr. Fowler noted that this policy sets forth that the baseline water capacity is set at 200,000 gallons for each wholesale customer (effective 6/1/24). Purchased capacity is added to the new “Baseline Capacity” to reflect the updated “Reserved Capacity” for each wholesale customer (effective 6/1/24). Addendum 1 to this policy contains the current Capacity Ledger that details baseline, purchased, adjusted gallons, and total capacity allotted. Additionally, the addendum reflects the current recognized available capacity.

MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO ACCEPT THE REVISED WHOLESALE CAPACITY POLICY EFFECTIVE 6/1/24 AS PRESENTED, WITH THE STIPULATION THAT THIS POLICY AND GRANDFATHERED CAPACITY AMOUNTS ARE REVIEWED ON AN ANNUAL BASIS AT THE TIME OF THE ANNUAL POLICY UPDATE. All members voted for the motion.

5. MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO APPROVE THE 3/25/24 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

6. BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCIAL REPORT. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating revenues are approximately $271.00 below budget projections for the period ending 2/29/24. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating expenses are approximately $1,460,461.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $7,939,314.00 for the period ending 2/29/24.

7. CLINT BLACKWELL PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Blackwell reported an average daily treatment of 17.881 MGD for the month of March 2024 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Blackwell reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.2 ft. Mr. Blackwell reported a cumulative rainfall total of 51.65” for the past twelve months.

8. JAMIE VELEY PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT IN THE ABSENCE OF MIKE VENTERS. Mr. Veley reported an average daily treatment of 3.2 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of 1.1 MG. Mr. Veley reported an average daily treatment of 5.5 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.320 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

9. JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT. Mrs. Arp noted that no spills or overflows occurred during this reporting period.

10. JODY HENSON PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT IN THE ABSENCE OF GARRY HENSLEY. Mr. Henson reported that the Wilkie Road project has been completed, and Authority crews are currently working on the Reavis Mountain Road project and the Holly Springs Parkway project.

11. DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT. Mr. Fowler reported that the Authority is in receipt of a letter from Ritchie Mullen, Water Quality Forester Specialist of the Georgia Forestry Commission. In this letter, Mr. Mullen noted that on 4/10/24, he visited the Authority’s 643-acre site on Shoal Creek Road to determine compliance with Georgia’s Best Management Practices (BMP’s) for Forestry Operations and to evaluate southern pine beetle infestation.

Mr. Mullen further noted in this correspondence that the forest industry has subjected itself to voluntary guidelines called Best Management Practices (BMP’s) in an effort to comply with federally mandated water quality guidelines set forth in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. With respect to this act, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) has designated the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) as the lead agency in the coordination and implementation of the forest water quality program. A primary responsibility of the GFC in overseeing this program is to investigate complaints and resolve any problems.

Mr. Mullen further noted in this correspondence that CCWSA has voluntarily opened its property to the public for recreation and created marked nature trails through the forest. The property has been heavily used by hunters, hikers, fishing, and ATV use. The previous landowner was Georgia Kraft Timber Company, who managed the timber using general forest operations of harvesting, site prep, burning, and tree planting for the purpose of making forest products. CCWSA has also continued forest operations to maintain a well-managed forest for future generations. In 2019, the CCWSA property had a severe southern pine beetle infestation. Action was taken to stop the spread of southern pine beetles by harvesting the pine timber in the areas that were affected. Timber stands that had to be harvested were replanted.

Mr. Mullen further noted that because of recent southern pine beetle infestation in Cherokee County, Forester Mr. Danny Henson requested that Mr. Mullen come to the CCWSA property and evaluate a new outbreak of southern pine beetles. The observation from the field visit on 4/10/24 showed a southern pine beetle infestation was active in various locations of the mature 39-year old pine stands.

Mr. Mullen noted that it is his recommendation to harvest the areas of the southern pine beetle infestation immediately to stop the spread of the pine beetle. Mr. Mullen further noted in his correspondence that the streams that flow through the CCWSA property are tributaries to Etowah River. In forestry operations, a Streamside Management Zone (SMZ) for a perennial stream requires 40-70-100 feet from each side of the stream depending on slope. Intermittent streams require a 20-35-50 foot SMZ depending on slope. Streambank trees cannot be removed; however, timber can be harvested within a SMZ when leaving a residual stand of 25-50 square feet of basal area per acre.

Mr. Fowler noted that Mr. Henson has recommended that the Authority proceed with the harvesting of this timber, and noted that Mr. Henson is obtaining bids for this scope of work.

12. DWAYNE FOWLER NOTED THAT PAT ROGERS OF HAZEN & SAWYER HAS PROVIDED AN UPDATE ON THE PROPOSED SLUDGE DRYER PROJECT, AND NOTED THAT THIS ISSUE WOULD BE BROUGHT BACK TO THE BOARD AT A LATER DATE. Eric Wilmarth requested that the Board receive an electronic copy of Mr. Rogers’ presentation.

13. DAVID KUBALA RECOGNIZED JENNIFER ARP FOR HER WORK IN WATER LOSS. Mr. Kubala noted that, in addition to being a leading professional in water loss in Georgia, Mrs. Arp has been working with researchers at Virginia Tech on a federally funded project through USGS. The project will develop a National Water Use Model and Water Loss Program. The ultimate objective of the project is to develop an easily accessible and secure database to help utilities across the country better manage their water infrastructure systems. Georgia was chosen as the starting place for this project, and they are now focusing on California and Texas.

Mr. Kubala noted that Mrs. Arp facilitated a workshop in April 2024 to help present the data gathered in Georgia to utilities, and California also attended to gain insight into the project as they begin the process. Mr. Kubala noted that CCWSA has been and continues to be an organization that has a high level of expertise in this industry in many ways, and CCWSA is proud of all the dedicated employees who contribute to this utility’s success and help others in our industry.

The Board extended appreciation to Mrs. Arp for her efforts.

14. ERIC WILMARTH REQUESTED STAFF TO PROVIDE OPTIONS TO THE BOARD AT THE TIME OF THE ANNUAL BUDGET PRESENTMENT REGARDING THE AUTHORITY’S STARTING WAGES AND PERSONNEL COSTS.

15. MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO ADJOURN. All members voted for the motion.

Board Meeting: March 25, 2024 @ 9:00 AM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Lisa Woodruff, Nancy Martin, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Jennifer Arp, Corey Ghorley, Beth Jones, Clint Blackwell, Garry Hensley, Greg Long, Jamie Veley, Mike Venters, Mark Cochran, Joey Buice, Ron Price, Melissa Darvish, Melanie Stephens, Bryan Watkins, Jody Henson, Keith Allen, Eric Wright, Jeff Hooper, Sharon Clark, Ryan Sarks, Shayne Fowler, and Carleton Sherrer.

Member Harry Johnston was not present at the meeting.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1. AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY DWAYNE FOWLER, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2. DWAYNE FOWLER NOTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF A REQUEST FROM BROOKE ANDERSON, GENERAL MANAGER OF ETOWAH WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY, TO RESERVE AN ADDITIONAL 250,000 GPD OF WATER CAPACITY FOR WHOLESALE PURCHASE BY ETOWAH WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY. MR. FOWLER NOTED THAT THE AUTHORITY HAS NOW RECEIVED A REVISED REQUEST FROM MR. ANDERSON TO RESERVE 245,000 GPD OF WATER CAPACITY FOR WHOLESALE PURCHASE BY ETOWAH WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY AT THE AUTHORITY’S CURRENT RATE OF $5.00 PER GALLON.

MOTION BY NANCY MARTIN AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO DENY THE REQUEST OF MR. ANDERSON, EVEN AS REVISED, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AUTHORITY’S CURRENT POLICY TOWARDS REQUESTS FOR WATER AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT CAPACITY BY GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES WHOSE WATER AND/OR WASTEWATER SYSTEMS ARE INDEPENDENT OF CCWSA. All members present voted for the motion.

3. COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF A CONSTRUCTION BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $876,852.00 FOR THE RIVERCHASE SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT – PHASE 2. Mr. Ghorley noted this scope of work is listed as Item #2 under Asset Replacement on the Authority’s current CIP. Mr. Ghorley noted a total original estimated cost of $612,684.00.

MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO APPROVE A CONSTRUCTION BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $876,852.00 FOR THE RIVERCHASE SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT – PHASE 2. All members present voted for the motion.

4. GARRY HENSLEY REPORTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF A PETITION FOR EXTENSION OF WATER MAIN FROM RESIDENTS OF WILKIE ROAD. Mr. Hensley noted that six residents have signed the petition. Mr. Hensley noted an approximate total footage of 1,181 feet for this extension, an estimated task cost of the line of $7,086.00, and a total purchase meter cost of $15,000.00. Mr. Hensley stated that there are twelve total properties in the extension area, and eight total properties with road frontage. Mr. Hensley noted an estimated line size of 3” PVC.

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF APPROXIMATELY 1,181 FEET OF 3” WATER MAIN FOR THE WILKIE ROAD AREA AT AN APPROXIMATE COST TO THE AUTHORITY OF $7,086.00. All members present voted for the motion.

5. GARRY HENSLEY REPORTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF A PETITION FOR EXTENSION OF WATER MAIN FROM RESIDENTS OF REAVIS MOUNTAIN ROAD/CHEROKEE GOLD TRAIL/CHERRY GROVE ROAD. Mr. Hensley noted that sixteen residents have signed the petition (thirteen of which are applicable). Mr. Hensley noted an approximate total footage of 6,366 feet of 4” HDPE pipe and 1,284 feet of 3” PVC pipe for this extension (total of 7,650 feet), an estimated task cost of the line of $38,770.08, and a total purchase meter cost of $32,500.00. Mr. Hensley noted there are 28 total properties in the extension area, and 28 total properties with road frontage.

MOTION BY BECKY DABBS AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF APPROXIMATELY 6,366 FEET OF 4” HDPE WATER MAIN AND 1,284 FEET OF 3” PVC WATER MAIN FOR THE REAVIS MOUNTAIN ROAD/CHEROKEE GOLD TRAIL/CHERRY GROVE ROAD AREA AT AN APPROXIMATE COST TO THE AUTHORITY OF $38,770.08. All members present voted for the motion.

6. RYAN SARKS REQUESTED APPROVAL OF THE GMEBS DEFINED BENEFIT RETIREMENT PLAN RESTATEMENT AS REQUIRED BY THE IRS.

MOTION BY NANCY MARTIN AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO APPROVE THE GMEBS DEFINED BENEFIT RETIREMENT PLAN RESTATEMENT AS REQUIRED BY THE IRS. All members present voted for the motion.

7. RYAN SARKS REQUESTED APPROVAL OF THE FY 2024 SURPLUS LISTING. Mr. Sarks noted that the items included on this listing will be sold at auction on 4/27/24.

MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO APPROVE THE FY 2024 SURPLUS LISTING AS PRESENTED. All members present voted for the motion.

8. MOTION BY BECKY DABBS AND SECOND BY JOHN WORKMAN TO APPROVE THE 2/26/24 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members present voted for the motion.

9. BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCIAL REPORT. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating revenues are approximately $814,197.00 above budget projections for the period ending 1/31/24. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating expenses are approximately $934,380.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $7,284,382.00 for the period ending 1/31/24.

10. CLINT BLACKWELL PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Blackwell reported an average daily treatment of 17.549 MGD for the month of February 2024 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Blackwell reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.2 ft. Mr. Blackwell reported a cumulative rainfall total of 50.53” for the past twelve months.

11. MIKE VENTERS PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 2.8 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of 1.3 MG. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 5.5 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.403 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

12. JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT. Mrs. Arp reported that a wastewater spill occurred during this reporting period at 100 Holly Park Court. Mrs. Arp noted that approximately 79,200 gallons were spilled, and the reason for the spill was a crack in the pipe. Mrs. Arp noted that Authority crews diverted flow until 3/11/24, at which time repair of the pipe could be made.

13. GARRY HENSLEY PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT. Mr. Hensley reported that Authority crews have completed work on the Hickory Road project, and work is continuing on the Upper Bethany Road project.

14. DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT. Mr. Fowler noted that staff has completed touring other municipalities that are currently utilizing AMI services. Mr. Fowler noted that he would be meeting with Bermex next month, and would report back to the Board at a later date with updated information.

15. IT WAS THE CONSENSUS OF THE BOARD FOR MR. FOWLER TO REVIEW THE AUTHORITY’S CURRENT WHOLESALE CAPACITY POLICY, SPECIFICALLY REVIEWING CAPACITIES PURCHASED AND NOT USED, AS WELL AS GRANDFATHERED CAPACITIES, AND PROVIDE A RECOMMENDATION TO THE BOARD AT NEXT MONTH’S MEETING.

16. MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO ADJOURN. All members present voted for the motion.

Board Meeting: February 26, 2024 @ 4:00 PM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Lisa Woodruff, Harry Johnston, Nancy Martin, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Corey Ghorley, Beth Jones, Clint Blackwell, Garry Hensley, Jody Henson, Keith Allen, Mark Cochran, Mike Venters, Melissa Darvish, Melanie Stephens, Greg Long, Joey Buice, Jamie Veley, Bryan Watkins, Eric Wright, Sharon Clark, Shayne Fowler, and Ryan Sarks.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1. AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY CLINT BLACKWELL, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2. DARRELL CAUDILL NOTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF AN EASEMENT RELINQUISHMENT REQUEST FROM JIM BELL. Mr. Caudill noted that Mr. Bell has requested relinquishment of the easement on behalf of Chadwick’s Crossing, LP, Parcel 02N03 186.

Mr. Caudill noted that the Authority had acquired this easement from Mr. Bell in 1996, and had paid Mr. Bell in the amount of $14,086.52 for the easement. Mr. Bell has now requested that the Authority relinquish this easement back to him.

Mr. Caudill cautioned that relinquishing this easement back to Mr. Bell could be considered a gratuity, and would be a violation of State law. Therefore, Mr. Caudill recommends that the Authority retain the easement.

IT WAS THE CONSENSUS OF THE BOARD FOR COUNSEL TO INFORM MR. BELL THAT THE AUTHORITY HAS DECIDED TO RETAIN THE EASEMENT. THEREFORE, MR. BELL’S REQUEST IS DENIED.

3. MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE 1/29/24 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

4. BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCE REPORT. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating revenues are approximately $1,003,845.00 above budget projections for the period ending 12/31/23. Mrs. Jones reported that total operating expenses are approximately $686,964.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $6,085,874.00 for the period ending 12/31/23.

5. CLINT BLACKWELL PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Blackwell reported an average daily treatment of 18.430 MGD for the month of January 2024 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Blackwell reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.2 ft. Mr. Blackwell reported a cumulative rainfall total of 50.53” for the past twelve months.

6. MIKE VENTERS PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 3.0 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of .695 MG. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 5.9 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.403 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

7. DAVID KUBALA PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT IN THE ABSENCE OF JENNIFER ARP. Mr. Kubala reported that no spills or overflows occurred during this reporting period.

8. GARRY HENSLEY PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT. Mr. Hensley noted that Authority crews are continuing work on Upper Bethany Road, and noted that the Technology Parkway Roundabout project is now complete.

9. DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT.

10. MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO ADJOURN. All members voted for the motion.

Board Meeting: January 29, 2024 @ 9:00 AM

PERSONS PRESENT: Eric Wilmarth, Barry Mansell, Lisa Woodruff, Harry Johnston, Nancy Martin, Becky Dabbs, John Workman, Dwayne Fowler, David Kubala, Darrell Caudill, Wesley Banks, Corey Ghorley, Beth Jones, Clint Blackwell, Jennifer Arp, Garry Hensley, Joey Buice, Mike Venters, Mark Cochran, Greg Long, Jamie Veley, Jody Henson, Melissa Darvish, Eric Wright, Keith Allen, Shayne Fowler, Ryan Sarks, Jeff Hooper, Sharon Clark, and Carleton Sherrer.

Eric Wilmarth, Chair, called the meeting to order.

1.   AN INVOCATION WAS GIVEN BY DWAYNE FOWLER, FOLLOWED BY THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

2.   COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF THE LOW BID RECEIVED FROM CROWDER CONSTRUCTION FOR THE FITZGERALD CREEK WPCP HEADWORKS REHABILITATION/IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,637,000.00. Mr. Ghorley noted this scope of work is listed as Item #4 under Asset Replacement on the Authority’s current CIP. Mr. Ghorley reported an approved construction budget of $3,600,000.00.

MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY BARRY MANSELL TO APPROVE THE LOW BID OF CROWDER CONSTRUCTION FOR THE FITZGERALD CREEK WPCP HEADWORKS REHABILITATION/IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,637,000.00. All members voted for the motion.

3.   COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF A PROPOSAL FROM HAZEN & SAWYER ENGINEERS FOR CONSTRUCTION PHASE SERVICES FOR THE FITZGERALD CREEK WPCP HEADWORKS IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $217,800.00.

MOTION BY NANCY MARTIN AND SECOND BY BECKY DABBS TO APPROVE THE PROPOSAL FROM HAZEN & SAWYER ENGINEERS FOR CONSTRUCTION PHASE SERVICES FOR THE FITZGERALD CREEK WPCP HEADWORKS IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $217,800.00. All members voted for the motion.

4.   COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF THE LOW BID FROM TADO CONSTRUCTION, LLC FOR THE ROSE CREEK WPCP BYPASS PUMPING PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $548,943.00. Mr. Ghorley noted this scope of work is listed as Item #13 under Construction Expansion/Upgrade on the Authority’s current CIP. Mr. Ghorley noted an approved construction budget of $642,500.00.

MOTION BY JOHN WORKMAN AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE LOW BID OF TADO CONSTRUCTION, LLC FOR THE ROSE CREEK WPCP BYPASS PUMPING PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $548,943.00. All members voted for the motion.

5.   COREY GHORLEY REQUESTED APPROVAL OF A PROPOSAL FROM ATKINS REALIS FOR CONSTRUCTION PHASE SERVICES FOR THE ROSE CREEK WPCP BYPASS PUMPING PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $39,963.00.

MOTION BY BECKY DABBS AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO APPROVE THE PROPOSAL FROM ATKINS REALIS FOR CONSTRUCTION PHASE SERVICES FOR THE ROSE CREEK WPCP BYPASS PUMPING PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $39,963.00. All members voted for the motion.

6.   GARRY HENSLEY REPORTED THAT THE AUTHORITY IS IN RECEIPT OF A PETITION FOR EXTENSION OF WATER MAIN FROM RESIDENTS OF MARKS WAY. Mr. Hensley noted that six residents have signed the petition. Mr. Hensley noted an approximate total footage of 3,252 feet for this extension, an estimated task cost of the line of $19,512.00, and a total purchase meter cost of $15,000.00. Mr. Hensley noted there are 17 total properties in the extension area, and 13 total properties with road frontage. Mr. Hensley noted an estimated line size of 3” PVC.

MOTION BY JOHN WORKMAN AND SECOND BY LISA WOODRUFF TO APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF APPROXIMATELY 3,252 FEET OF 3” WATER MAIN FOR THE MARKS WAY AREA AT AN APPROXIMATE COST TO THE AUTHORITY OF $19,512.00. All members voted for the motion.

7.   MOTION BY BARRY MANSELL AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO APPROVE THE 12/18/23 BOARD MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED. All members voted for the motion.

8.   BETH JONES PRESENTED THE FINANCE REPORT. Mrs. Jones noted that total operating revenues were approximately $2,126,366.00 above budget projections for the period ending 10/31/23. Mrs. Jones noted that total operating expenses were approximately $316,210.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $4,254,646.00 for the period ending 10/31/23.

Mrs. Jones noted that total operating revenues were approximately $1,516,289.00 above budget projections for the period ending 11/30/23. Mrs. Jones noted that total operating expenses were approximately $767,198.00 below budget projections for the same period. Mrs. Jones reported year-to-date net income of $5,009,483.00 for the period ending 11/30/23.

9.   CLINT BLACKWELL PRESENTED THE WATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Blackwell reported an average daily treatment of 17.677 MGD for the month of December 2023 at the Etowah River Water Treatment Facility. Mr. Blackwell also reported that the Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir is currently at full pool at 1189.1 ft. Mr. Blackwell reported a cumulative rainfall total of 50.97” for the past twelve months.

10.   MIKE VENTERS PRESENTED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATIONS REPORT. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 2.7 MGD at the Rose Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, as well as a total reuse monthly flow of 1.2 MG. Mr. Venters reported an average daily treatment of 5.2 MGD at the Fitzgerald Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, and an average daily treatment of 0.280 MGD at the Riverbend Wastewater Treatment Facility.

11.   JENNIFER ARP PRESENTED THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT. Mrs. Arp noted that no spills or overflows occurred during this reporting period.

12.   GARRY HENSLEY PRESENTED THE CONSTRUCTION REPORT. Mr. Hensley noted that Authority crews are continuing work on the Upper Bethany Road and Hickory Road connector lines.

13.   DWAYNE FOWLER PRESENTED THE GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT. MR. FOWLER NOTED THAT STAFF HAS AMENDED THE FORMER “PETITION FOR EXTENSION OF WATER MAIN” DOCUMENT AND HAS DEVELOPED A REVISED DOCUMENT TITLED “REQUEST TO PROVIDE DRINKING WATER ONLY TO UNDERSERVED AREAS” WHEREBY CITIZENS MAY PETITION THE AUTHORITY TO EXTEND CURRENT WATER LINES TO PROVIDE DRINKING WATER FOR EXISTING HOMES. Mr. Fowler noted that citizens of Reavis Mountain Road and Cherry Grove Road would be allowed to re-petition the Authority by utilizing this document.

14.   DWAYNE FOWLER NOTED THAT AN INTERNAL COMMITTEE HAS BEEN DEVELOPED FOR THE PURPOSE OF RESEARCHING ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE (AMI). Mr. Fowler noted that he anticipates bringing a recommendation to the Board at a later date.

15.   MOTION BY LISA WOODRUFF AND SECOND BY NANCY MARTIN TO ADJOURN. All members voted for the motion.