"Providing Hometown Reliability"
The Board of Public Works convened the regular session at 8:30 a.m. at the Marshall Municipal Utilities Business Office. Board members present were Ken Bryant, President; Jim Heinzler, Vice President; Spencer Fricke, Secretary; and Chuck Hird, member. Also present was City Councilman Ron Duvall.
The agenda was approved as presented. General Manager Kyle Gibbs reviewed the safety briefing. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as printed on a motion by Mr. Jim Heinzler, seconded by Mr. Spencer Fricke.
Employee Relations Manager Megan Baldridge asked that the Board approve extending Customer Service Representative Marsha Hemme's leave of absence. On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Heinzler, the Board agreed to continue Marsha Hemme's leave of absence two months (until June 2, 2014), if needed, with continuation of health insurance premiums.
Ms. Baldridge reported on the annual wage and benefit review. On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Fricke, the Board approved an adjustment to the pay ranges for each position as indicated on pay range charts provided for the Board.
On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Fricke, further wage adjustments will be discussed at the next Board meeting, April 17, 2014.
Underground Facilities Director Monty Chase reported on a section of sewer main on Boyd Street in serious need of repair. On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Fricke, the Board approved adding this section of main to the current Spray Com Utilities project at a cost of approximately $7,200.
Environmental Services Director Ginny Ismay asked that the Board approve requesting bids for the purchase of a new all terrain vehicle for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Heinzler, the request was tabled until the next meeting.
Administrative Services Director Ken Gieringer reported on the need for additional staffing in the customer service area. On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Heinzler, the Board authorized an additional Customer Service Representative position (to be vacated at a future time in 2014).
Director Gieringer also provided drawings for the Board's viewing of the proposed new warehouse. On a motion by Mr. Fricke, seconded by Mr. Hird, the Board approved obtaining bids for a warehouse structure using the design and build process.
Electric Production Director Jim Johnson updated the Board on the power plant roof project. Bid openings on this project have been extended by two weeks (April 8, 2014). Another lead based paint survey specific to this project has been conducted allowing contractors a better understanding of how to approach the work.
Electric Distribution Director Jeff Bergstrom reported on problems with Unit #9's automation system at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. A new voltage sensor is on order and troubleshooting continues.
Director Bergstrom also reported that 39 customers between Linn and Dexter Streets have had their service moved underground.
General Manager Kyle Gibbs reported on the last legislative session. One of the bills addressed pole attachments and the impact utilities might incur if such a bill passes.
On a motion by Mr. Hird, seconded by Mr. Fricke, accounts payable were approved and warrants ordered issued from the following funds:
WATER OPERATING FUND $ 146,756.30 ELECTRIC OPERATING FUND $ 283,545.17 SEWER REVENUE FUND $ 126,593.80 INTERNET OPERATING FUND $ 25,048.46 NATURAL GAS OPERATING FUND $ 376.76 ELECTRIC CONSUMERS DEPOSIT FUND $ 10,800.00
The next Board meeting will be held Thursday, April 17, 2014.
The Board voted unanimously to adjourn the regular meeting at 9:50 a.m. to go in executive session to discuss matters under Mo Rev. Stat. Section 610.021 [3] concerning personnel actions. Roll call vote:
Spencer Fricke yes
Chuck Hird yes
Jim Heinzler yes
Ken Bryant yes