REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES
December 13, 2006
The WANAQUE VALLEY REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY conducted a
Regular Meeting, which commenced at
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Hadley with a Salute to the Flag.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Hadley read the following announcement:
This is the
Regular Meeting of the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority. In accordance with the Open Public Meetings
Law, notices of the meeting were furnished to the respective Municipal Clerks
of Ringwood, Wanaque and West Milford together with a request that an
additional copy of the Notice be placed in each
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Andrew Bolduc, Frank Covelli, Joseph Elcavage, Robert Hadley, Robert Moshman and Patrick Murray
Also Present: Richard Miller, Esq., Williams, Caliri, Miller & Otley
Chris Erd, Esq. Williams, Caliri, Miller & Otley
Lee T. Purcell, Jr., P.E., Lee T. Purcell Associates
Gregory White, Facilities Manager
Margaret Maas, Recording Secretary
The Chairman stated that he would like to thank the Authority for the prayers and good wishes when he had his surgery and for the nice basket of fruit.
At this time the Chairman stated that he would like to change the order of business to open the meeting with the Public Portion, to allow our guests to speak, if they choose to, before we move on to the rest of the meeting. The Chairman invited anyone wishing to address the Board to setup forward and identify themselves for the records.
PUBLIC PORTION
Paul Farrantino – Resident of Wanaque Reserve. Mr. Farrantino stated that he believed that everyone was aware that there was a meeting on October 30th at Wanaque Borough Hall to discuss the various issues that the residents have with the WVRSA. Mr. Farrantino stated that some of the Commissioners were present along with Mr. Tom Carroll, Mayor Balunis and Mayor elect Dan Mahler and other town dignitaries. Mr. Farrantino stated that there were eleven members of the committee from Wanaque Reserve (WR) at the meeting as well as three members of the Condominium Board. Mr. Farrantino stated that the purpose of that meeting was to address the issues that stand between us. Mr. Farrantino stated that it was a great meeting in that it seemed that everyone involved was ready to rollup their sleeves and solve our problems. Mr. Farrantino stated that it is our understanding that this Board will vote tonight on how you intend to move forward to resolve these issues. Mr. Farranatino stated that they were happy to get to this place and time and in fact we feel that this is long overdue. He stated that they still have some concerns that this Board and the town council are not yet taking us seriously on these issues. He then asked to please prove us wrong by doing the right thing here and now. Mr. Farrantino stated that he has distributed to each and every Commissioner and Professional a copy of what issues were discussed at that October 30th meeting. Mr. Farrantino stated that he did not think it necessary to read aloud the list but asked if possible could the Authority get back to them with answers on each and every issue. (Copy attached).
The Chairman asked if we have any answers on these issues yet.
Mr. White responded that yes we did and asked the Chairman if he would like him to go right into his report that will answer those questions.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Mr. White stated that this is a continuation of the report that he presented at the October 25th meeting and that he will keep on adding to the current report on record on a monthly basis.
December 13th
- Noise Control
Mr. White stated that at that October 30th meeting, Mr. Farrantino has asked him to approach our current sludge hauler to request that they come in and out of the facility during normal business hours only.
1) Mr.
White stated that the hauler’s response to him was no, because they had hired
specific drivers to service our needs and right now there is no limitations in
their contract, with regard to hours. Mr. White stated that their contract is
over
2) Mr. White reported that we have constructed a 10 ft plywood wall between the pump station and the receiving area. Mr. White stated that at ground level the noise is completely gone. Mr. White stated that the next steps is to get up on one of the balconies of one of the condos in Building #10 and see what the noise level is up there.
3) Mr. White4 stated that tonight we will discuss the possible modification of our delivery acceptance hours for the Liquid Waste Haulers. Mr. White stated that he has also discussed it with them and a decision should be forthcoming this evening.
December 13th -Odor Control
1) Mr. White stated that as reported last month the carbon media was found to be defective in two of the units. He stated that the carbon media was replaced in the grit chamber odor control unit on 10-27-06. Mr. white stated that it was an immediate improvement in air flow and the unit is much remarkably quieter, without any attempts to silence it.
2) Mr.
White reported that on
3) Mr. White stated that the carbon media was replaced in Bay #1 of the influent wet well odor control unit.
4) Mr. White stated that the Authority sampled the mixed media in Bay #3 of all odor control units sampled and sent them to Purafil for analysis to determine life expectancy of the media. Mr. White stated that he would like to jump to #8 to continue on the life expectancy of the Media.
8) Mr. White reported that he received the results from Purafil today and are as follows:
1) Receiving Area still has a greater than 1 year life expectancy
2) Grit Chamber also has a greater than 1 year life expectancy
3) Influent Wet Well media is completely spent and it has to be replaced. The new media was ordered today.
Mr. White stated that he had no answer as to why two still had greater than 1 year expectancy and one was spent.
5) Mr. White reported that on 12-05-06 there was a performance testing of three (3) pass-thru odor control units by Purafil representatives that was witnessed by himself and by James Demitriou of Lee T. Purcell Associates. Mr. White stated that Mr. Purcell will in all probability have a report on this also. Mr. White reported that the Influent Wet Well Unit and the Grit Chamber Unit passed the air flow and the H2S removal tests. The Receiving Area Unit passed the H2S but failed the air flow test. Mr. White stated that the failure was attributed to failed carbon media. Purafil will replace it with new media at no cost, and then the unit will be retested. Mr. White reported that
the new media was received yesterday 12-12-06 and Stone Hill Construction will install the media tomorrow and then we will immediately perform the air flow testing again to see if it meets specifications. If it does not meet it then – then we have other possible issues.
6) Mr. White stated that we put up a plywood wall between the receiving area enclosure and septage garage to prevent drafting / venturi effect and it seems to be working extremely well.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Noise and Odor Control Report. Cont.
7) Mr. White stated that he just reported that we received the new carbon media for the receiving area and that it would be installed on 12-14-06
Mr. White stated that he could also address some of the other items on Mr. Farrantino’s letter and proceeded to address them in order.
1) Mr. White stated that the overflow ports in the grit chamber problem was corrected immediately. Mr. White stated that upon your stating your concerns the Authority put up collection troughs and the Authority constructed a collection system composed of PVC pipe and the collection system is functional. Mr. white stated that if there is any overflow through those ports it will be collected by the piping system and we have purchased flexible hosing and that overflow will be piped or put back into the treatment system and will no longer be spilling out on the ground. Discussion followed.
Mr. White stated that with regard to the testing of the pooling water between building #10 and the plant, that he went over there and viewed the area with Barbara Jaquett and Ed Isreal and we looked at the water pooling there. Mr. White stated that he is 1000% certain that the water is strictly rain water and that there is no sewer water in that water. There was discussion of residue on the roadway and Mr. White stated that he is positive that there was no way possible for that residue to have gotten into the pooling water as the water, due to the lay of the land is 2 – 3 inches above the roadway .
Mr. white stated that he has already addressed #2 and #3.
4) Mr. White stated that this item will be discussed this evening and he would hope to see the Board take action.
Mr. Farrantino asked Mr. White what he was considering in
relation to the hours of the septic truck drop offs. Mr. White stated that he is going to propose
seasonal hours – a set of winter hours and
a set of winter hours. He stated that
the winter hours will be
The summer hours will be 6am until 9pm and it will be for seven days a week. Mr. Farrantino asked why there were different hours and Mr. White explained his decision. Mr. Farrantino stated there are laws about noise – there are laws about noise on the books about being a public nuisance – you cannot have industrial noise prior to 7am.
5) Mr. White asked Mr. Farrantino what areas he was referring to in this statement. Mr. Farrantino stated the areas between building #10 and the plant and building #8 and the plant.
Mr. White stated that he has already addressed the water between #10, which he has explained is wetlands areas. Mr. Farrantino stated that he has heard wetlands and he is not sure if there is such a thing as wetlands as he has never seen anything which indicates such an area. Mr. White stated that Pulte did some drainage work in that area after they were requested to look into it. Mr. White suggested going back to Pulte and requested they look at it again.
6) Regarding the large adult size evergreen trees, Mr. White stated that he spoke with Mr. Carroll regarding this and they felt that bushes such as honeysuckle and forsythia would do a great deal to enhance the look of the area as well as help with the odor. Mr. Farrantino stated that he also spoke with Mr. Carroll and it seemed to him that Mr. Carroll was in agreement that there should be large evergreen trees to hide the unsightliness of the buildings.
Mr. Farrantino asked if the trees were going to be voted on tonight.
7) Mr. White stated that any discussion regarding the additional $60/year assessment must be with the Wanaque Borough Sewerage Authority (WBSA) not with this Authority. Mr. White stated that the WVRSA does not bill residents the WBSA does all billing for sewer services. Mr. Farrantino asked if the WVRSA budgets the amount to cover the replacement of the media, in the odor control units. Mr. White stated that we have a dollar amount for the cost of that media for a year. Mr. White stated that we then pass our costs, in the form of our annual budget, on to the WBSA and that is the Service Contract between us. Mr. Farrantino asked Mr. White if he specifically suggested that possibly it could be paid for in this manner - $60 to each resident at Wanaque Reserve. Mr. White stated that no he did not that the WBSA came up with the method. Commissioner Bolduc stated that the WBSA came up with the number based upon the figures that they received from the Regional regarding the cost of the new media. Chairman Hadley added that as this odor control will benefit no one other than the residents of WR and it seemed fair that they share in the cost.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Noise and Odor Control Report. Cont.
8) Mr. White stated that this item was discussed earlier.
9) Mr. White stated that this item deals with the chemical we are feeding into the sludge dewatering process which has started and is working extremely well.
Mr. White asked if Mr. Farrantino if he had anything further to discuss and Chairman Hadley thanked them for coming to the meeting.
Chairman Hadley then asked for a motion to close the Public Portion of the meeting.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Patrick Murray to adopt a resolution closing the Public Portion of this meeting.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and
MOTION
CARRIED
The Chairman asked for a motion to go into Closed Session to discuss some contractual problems.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Patrick Murray to adopt a resolution authorizing going into Closed Session.
Closed session began at 6:40 PM and was concluded at 7:30 PM with the following motion.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Patrick Murray to adopt a resolution authorizing returning to Open Session.
MINUTES
Regular
Meeting –
The Chairman asked if anyone had any questions or comments on the Regular Meeting Minutes of October 25, 2006 as presented. When there was no response the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution accepting the Regular Meeting Minutes of October 25, 2006 as presented.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray abstained.
MOTION
CARRIED
CORRESPONDENCE
Correspondence
List for
The Chairman asked if there were any questions on the Correspondence List as presented. When there was no response he stated that the Correspondences would be placed on file.
REPORTS
Facilities Manager
Sludge
Hauling Contract Award
Mr. White
stated that on
Mr. White stated that the bids were reviewed by Mr. Carroll, our Cert. Purchasing Agent. Mr. Chris Erd and Mr. Miller also reviewed the bids. Mr. White stated that there were some concerns noted, which he will discuss later.
Mr. White stated that he would like to recommend the awarding of our Sludge Hauling Contract to R & D Trucking for a two-year period. Mr. White stated that we have worked with R & D many times in the past and they have always served us well.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Sludge Hauling Contract Award Cont.
Commissioner Covelli stated that he noticed that they were so much lower than all of the other bidders. Mr. White stated that the price is exactly the same as what we are paying now.
Mr. Erd asked Mr. White is he would like him to address the concerns they had found upon their review. Mr. Erd stated that in previous years all bid notices had been sent to their office for review before they were published. This time they did not get to review them until after the fact. Erd stated that the forms that are being used are Mr. Carrolls’ forms and apparently they have been adopted from the Borough’s forms. Mr. Erd stated that there are some instances where it is difficult to know who is making this contract as the wording is incorrect. He stated that some are minor but there is one the insurance requirement that is quite important. Mr. Erd stated that one of the documents that was incorrect was the Certificate of Insurance, which could prove very important. Mr. Erd stated that in the Insurance section of the contract it stated that the Borough should be named as an additional insured with no mention of this Authority. Mr. Erd stated that the actual Certificate of Insurance they provided did not name either the Borough or the Regional Authority as additional insured - it was just a copy of an Insurance Certificate issued to this Authority without anyone being named additional insured. Mr. Erd stated that this must be corrected.
The Chairman then asked for a motion approving the awarding of the Sludge Hauling Contract subject to the suggested changes of Mr. Erd and Mr. Miller.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Andrew Bolduc to adopt a resolution authorizing
the awarding of the Sludge Hauling Contract for two years to R & D Trucking, Inc. for the low bid of $30.00/1000 gallons for both the first and second years of the contract.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray all voted yes.
MOTION CARRIE
Commissioner
Elcavage asked what were the hours on this contract for the
Hauler to pick up. Mr. White
stated that hours that are specified in the contract are
NJUA-JIF Dividend
Mr. White reported that the Authority will be receiving a dividend check in the amount of $9,700.00, which is good news. Mr. White stated that it is from the Insurance Fund and that we have been receiving it for the past several years.
WVRSA
Christmas Luncheon
Mr. White
announced that this year’s Christmas Luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday,
December 20th at approximately
Odor
Control Report
Mr. White stated that the Odor Control Report h as already been given. He stated that if anyone has any questions, to please feel free to ask.
Risk Management Seminar
Mr. White reported that he and Commissioner Bolduc attended a Risk Management Seminar at Mahwah Township Hall last week given by the Insurance Fund. Mr. White stated that it was an excellent presentation. Mr. White reported that Commissioner Garland from the WBSA also attended, so both of the Authorities were very well represented.
Mr. White
stated that this is the seminar which is presented at the Convention in
Modification of the Hauler’s Hours of Permissible Dumping
Mr. White stated he had discussions with several of the larger Haulers and they told him that they do not have a problem with there being a window of when dumping is acceptable. They have stated that it will not affect them in any way, shape or form.
REPORTS
Facilities Manager
Modification of Hauler’s Hours of Permissible Dumping Cont.
Mr. White stated that he would like to have both Winter Hours and Summer Hours. Mr. White stated that the activity level of the haulers if markedly different for winter and summer. Therefore, Mr. White stated that he would like to recommend:
Winter
Hours to be from December thru March -
Summers
Hours to be from April thru November -
Mr. Erd stated that he had one comment – referring to the previous discussion with the resident of Wanaque Reserve, with regard to the hours of operation. Mr. Erd stated that he had stated an objection to the hours of operation – indicating the noise levels during the hours of operation. Mr. Erd stated that as long as the noise levels are under the standard for decibels – there is no basis for complaint. Mr. Erd stated that he would look into what those levels are. Commissioner Murray stated that he had asked for a noise survey be done at the previous meeting in order to know where our levels are and can then respond to the WR residents properly.
Commissioner Elcavage asked if we could get a copy of the Wanaque Borough Ordinance setting the noise limits. Mr. Erd stated that he believes that it is a County enforcement level but it is a State standard. Mr. Erd stated that it all depends on what type of operation you are and what district you are in, i.e.: industrial use, commercial use, residential use. He stated that we are governmental use adjacent to a residential district. Mr. White asked if we were subject to those standards as we are governmental use.
Mr. White asked if there was any further discussion on those hours. There was additional discussion on possibly asking PMK to come in and do a noise survey. At the conclusion of those discussions the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Patrick Murray, 2nd by Robert Moshman to adopt a resolution to authorize changing the hours of permissible dumping by our haulers to
Winter
Hours from December thru March –
from April thru November –
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and
MOTION CARRIED
Wastewater
Management Plan Update
Mr. White reported that there is no update.
Inflow
and Infiltration (I & I) Update
Mr. White reported that the five excavation repairs to be performed by Fitzpatrick will be completed by the end of the year.
Mr. White stated that there is still serious concern. Mr. White reported that Pulte is still not sure how they are going to address and remediate that issue. Mr. White stated that the initial 20 feet of the pipe cannot be relined, therefore, it looks like a that 20 foot section of pipe will have to be replaced, then they will attempt to reline the 50 feet of pipe which goes under the bridge. Discussion followed.
Commissioner Covelli asked if Pulte has agreed to pay for this remediation. Mr. White stated absolutely yes.
Mr. White
reported that we recently awarded a contract to Cannella Roofing to replace the
roof on the
REPORTS
Facilities Manager Cont.
Plant
Security Update
Mr. White reported that we are waiting for the fence contractor to come in to install the automatic gate for us. Mr. White reported that the gate will work on the EZ Pass system, where stickers will be distributed for all and as one approaches the gate will open automatically. Mr. White stated that there will also be installed a safety ring where a vehicle wishing to exit the property will drive on this ring and the gate will open again. Discussion ensued with regard to the positioning of the gate on the approach roadway.
Flow
Mr. White reported that the flow into the plant has been quite high over the past 1 ½ months. We have received frequent heavy rains, the reservoir is full, the dam is overflowing and he believes that they are at 100% capacity. Mr. White stated that we are receiving about 1.0 million gallons per day. He stated that the level is dropping slowly, we were prepared to bypass last week but fortunately we did not have to do so. Mr. White stated that he believes that we are still receiving a lot of infiltration. Mr. White stated that he hopes that the remediation of the Highland Avenue Bridge pipe will have a large impact on that infiltration.
Revenue
Mr. White reported that we still realized $79,000.00 worth of revenue last month, and that is with 8 – 10 days of closure, due to the heavy rains. Mr. White reassured the Commissioners that at no time will he ever compromise the operation of the facility for the sake
of a few dollars. Mr. White stated that whenever we have concern with the flows, the potential for bypassing etc. – the truckers are told to go elsewhere.
Mr. White stated that he had a number of Personnel Items that he will go over later as well.
Accounting
Mr. Ferraioli is not here tonight but he did say that the Audit Report is completed and that he will present it at the next meeting.
Engineering
Mr. Purcell disbursed a status report on Contract 1-25 and proceeded to go over each item
with the Commissioners
Engineering
Report on the Upgrade – Contract 1-25
Mr. Purcell reported that as we go through the report you will hear that many items are completed and pending final inspection. Mr. Purcell stated that the contractor is starting to pull off some of his trailers at this time. He is also starting to clean up the site and it is starting to come back into how it looked before the project was started. Mr. Purcell stated that we cannot be completed and closed out of this project until all the punch list items are satisfactorily addressed and taken care of. Mr. Purcell stated that it is very important now that we all get together and make sure that the punch list is completed and t he work is satisfactory
1. Septage Receiving Facility
The facility is complete, pending final inspection. He stated that the drain has been installed and the painting is completed, so the haulers can easily wash down any spillage
2. Influent Pumping Station -Complete pending final Inspection.
Completed installation of the new seal water system. The stilling well and floats (backup system) are clogged due to the volume of septage discharged to the IPS. Stone Hill Contracting has prepared two (2) quotes for the remediation of this system and we are awaiting a third proposal from Stone Hill.
3. Grit Chamber and Grit Chemical/Building
Grit chamber #2 was placed on line.
Work in this facility is complete except for the installation of the SCADA system, which is in progress, and pending Final Inspection.
Cannella Roofing has completed the necessary roofing repair at the direction of the Authority with the exception of the metal capping which is being fabricated and will be installed in the near future.
REPORTS
Engineering
Engineering
Report on the Upgrade – Contract 1-25
4. Aeration Basins Nos. 1, 2 and 3
Work is complete except for connection to the SCADA system and pending Final Inspection.
5. Final Clarifiers
The spare control panels were delivered
Work is complete except for connection to the SCADA system and pending Final Inspection.
There is a note here that there will be a meeting, regarding management concerns on the decking on the 20th of this month.
6.
The new seal water system was installed.
Installation of the SCADA system hardware is in progress.
7.
The exterior of the building was power washed.
Work is complete except for resolution of the over temperature problem with the spray water pumps and pending final Inspection.
8. Treatment Module
The hardware for the SCADA system was installed
The new equipment was connected to the SCADA system.
Connection of the existing equipment to the SCADA system is in progress.
9.
Work on the required programming for the desk top computers continues.
The antenna was activated and is communicating with the Haskell Pumping Station
(wet well depth only).
Once the entire SCADA system has been installed and programmed, a complete test of the system will be conducted.
10. Haskell Pumping
Installation of the SCADA system hardware is in progress
11. Final Site Work is in Progress
Bituminous concrete paving was completed.
Construction of concrete sidewalks was completed.
Storage and office trailers that are no longer required have been removed from the site. Restoration of these areas is in progress.
The drain in front of the septage receiving building was installed.
Mr. Purcell reported that the project is 93% complete as of last week.
Commissioner Elcavage asked Mr. Purcell to explain the SCADA system, which he did
Mr. Purcell distributed his next hand-out and stated that it was his Agenda for the meeting. Mr. Purcell stated that he has already addressed the first item on his agenda and he would like to move on to #II
Mr. Purcell stated that Mr. White reported on this item earlier. Mr. Purcell stated that it is important that the I & I is corrected as quickly as possible.
III.
LTPA Proposal – Wastewater Management Plan (WMP)
Mr. Purcell stated that his firm has issued a proposal to the Authority with regards to the WMP almost two years ago. He then asked Mr. White if there has been any response from the State on our request for guidance. Mr. White stated that there was no response what-so-ever.
IV. Septage Holding Tank System 50,000 Gallon Capacity
Mr. Purcell stated that he is awaiting direction from the Authority to proceed with the final design for bidding this project.
V. Clean Water Council Public Hearing –Held on
Representatives of LTPA attended this public hearing and prepared a draft comment letter for the Authority’s consideration and submission to NJDEP. Mr. Purcell asked if this letter was sent out by the Authority. Mr. White responded that yes the letter was sent out.
REPORTS
Engineering
VI. NJDEP
Informational Meeting – Held on
Representatives of LTPA attended this public hearing and prepared a draft comment letter for the Authority’s consideration and submission to NJDEP. Mr. Purcell asked if this letter was sent out by the Authority. Mr. White responded that yes the letter was sent out.
VII. LTPA’s Recommendation for Expert to Assist the Authority in
Responding to Recent Residential Complaints
Mr. Purcell stated that we issued a recommendation to the Authority for an expert to assist the Authority in addressing some of the problems that the residents of WR have raised. Mr. Purcell stated that the Curriculum Vitae of Dr. Richard T. Dewling, P.E. is on file with the Authority.
Mr. Purcell stated that was the extent of his report.
Legal
Access
road
Mr. Miller reported that his office received, from Pulte, the Maintenance Bond on the Access road which they are required, under their contract to furnish us. Mr. Miller stated tht it is a two-year Bond which covers 25% of the cost of the installation of the roadway.
Ringwood Litigation
Mr. Miller stated that the litigation with Ringwood is ongoing. Mr. Miller stated that we have a motion pending to dismiss their answer and allow us to do some discovery. Mr. Miller stated that would allow us to take the deposition of the former business manager of Ringwood
Who participated in our discussions and was the one who advised Ringwood at that time, that to do it through the Regional would be cheaper to pay them their costs than it would be for them to do it on their own. Mr. Miller stated that he is prepared to say that in our behalf.
Mr. Miller stated that he received a call from the Special Counsel from Ringwood, who has asked if we would consider a settlement at this time. Mr. Miller stated that we are suing for $13,l000.00 and they are asking if we would consider something like 50% for a quick settlement.
Mr. Miller stated that his answer was that he had no authority to discuss a settlement. Mr. Miller stated that he was also told by Counsel, and he has no way to prove it, that they were offered by representatives of Wanaque that they would have us forgive this indebtedness if they (Ringwood) would vote to dissolve this Authority.
Commissioner Elcavage asked Mr. Miller what he thought a reasonable amount might be, considering that maybe we don’t want to pay a lot of attorney’s fees chasing $13,000.00.
Mr. Erd asked Commissioner Elcavage was he asking for a recommendation of a settlement amount. Commissioner Elcavage stated yes. Mr. Erd stated that should not be done in an open session. Mr. Erd stated that it is a good question to ask – just not in open session that should be discussed in Closed session.
It was decided that as Mr. White also has some issues to discuss in Closed session, that it
be held until that time. It was noted that any voting must to be done in Open Session but the discussion should be in Closed Session.
Mr. Miller stated that he had no further legal items to address.
Vouchers
The
Chairman asked for the voucher report.
Mr. White stated that approval of these vouchers is subject to the availability of funds.
RE: Vouchers M-10043 thru M-10052 - FY ‘06
M-10053 thru M-10118- FY ‘07
REPORTS
Vouchers Cont.
RE: Vouchers M-10043 thru M-10052 - FY ‘06
M-10053 thru M-10118- FY ‘07
RESOLUTION – Read by Title
"RESOLUTION REQUISITIONING FROM THE REVENUE FUND TO THE REVOLVING FUND BY THE WANAQUE VALLEY REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY ("AUTHORITY") PURSUANT TO SECTION 506 OF THE BOND RESOLUTION ENTITLED "RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS OF THE WANAQUE VALLEY REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY AND FOR THE RIGHTS OF THE HOLDERS THEREOF, AND AUTHORIZING $12,500,000.00 PRINCIPAL AMOUNT THEREOF ("RESOLUTION") ADOPTED BY THE AUTHORITY ON AUGUST 26, 1987, AS AMENDED OR SUPPLEMENTED THEREAFTER"
Commissioner Covelli has some questions on some of the vouchers, which Mr. White
provided him with explanations. Commissioners Bolduc and Elcavage requested copies of the backup document of one of the vouchers. When Commissioner Covelli was satisfied the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution to approve payment of Vouchers M-10043 thru M-10052 for FY '06 and M-10053 thru M-10118 for FY ‘07, all payments to be subject to availability of funds.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION CARRIED
Commissioner Elcavage asked, referencing Mr. Theresa’s bill for computer work, if these were for four new computes systems. Mr. White stated no that they were upgrades. Mr. White stated that three systems were upgraded to a flat screen and the fourth system, which is our training system has been upgraded to allow more audio visual capabilities. Mr. White stated that it covers four complete systems and those systems are networked together.
OLD BUSINESS
The Chairman asked if there was anything to be discussed under Old Business. When there was no response he asked if there was anything to be discussed under New Business.
NEW BUSINESS
Personnel Committee Report
Commissioner Covelli stated that he is not sure that this is a subject for Open or Closed Session but when the Personnel Committee met with the employees he explained it to them and as they already know about it, he thought it appropriate for open discussion.
Commissioner Covelli stated that as this Authority purchases the health benefits through the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) for all of our employees. He reported that the SHBP has become very expensive. Commissioner Covelli that they assured the employees that they were not interested in changing any of their benefits but that there may be a better program out there which will cost the Authority less.
Commissioner Covelli stated that in order for us to look at options we would have to get our loss experience from the State. He stated that the State unlike any other insurance company charges for this information. The charge for this information is Two thousand dollars.
Commissioner Covelli stated that considering what we spend for Health Benefits, he feels that we have an obligation to do due diligence, pay them the two thousand to get the data, to make sure that either we are getting the benefits that we need to provide from the State or we should be looking for an Alternative.
Commissioner
Covelli stated that the Borough of Wanaque has joined the Health Insurance Fund
(HIF),
NEW BUSINESS Cont.
After additional discussion Commissioner Covelli recommended that we pass a motion authorizing Mr. White to order the data and that he would advise him on how to go about that. Commissioner Covelli stated that he believes that we can either join the HIF as ourselves or we could piggy-back on the membership of the Borough. Commissioner Murray asked how much the Borough thinks they have saved by going this route. Commissioner Covelli said he was not sure but he believes that it is in the tens of thousands.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution authorizing Mr. White to order the Loss Experience Data from the State Health Benefits Plan at a cost of Two Thousand dollars.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION
CARRIED
CLOSED SESSION #2
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Patrick Murray to adopt a resolution to go into Closed Session to discuss employee salary matters and Pending Litigation.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION CARIED
Closed session commenced at
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution authorizing returning to Open Session.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION
CARRIED
Personned Committee
Report
Richard Revelant - Mr. White stated that our Night Operator, Richard Revelant had a successful Performance Evaluation on 10-21-06 and he would like to recommend an increase in base salary from $19.79/hr to $$20.58/hr.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Andrew Bolduc to adopt a resolution authorizing a salary increase from $19.79/hr to $20.58/hr to Richard Revelant, Night Operator for having had a successful Performance Evaluation.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION
CARRIED
Timothy Johnson – Mr. White stated that regarding our new hire, Timothy Johnson, that his 90-day probationary period be extended and additional period of 30 days with his next evaluation will be on 1-11-07. Mr. White stated that he would like to recommend that to the Board.
MOTION Moved by Andrew Bolduc, 2nd by Patrick Murray to adopt a resolution authorizing that Timothy Johnson’s probationary period be extended for an additional 30 days and that his next evaluation date be set for 1-11-07.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS Cont.
Personnel
Committee Report
Frank Lembo – Mr. White stated that our new hire, Frank Lembo, Maintenance / Groundskeeper, having had a successful Performance Evaluation, that he would like to recommend that he be removed from probationary status and be placed on non-probationary status effective 12-18-06 and that he receive a corresponding hourly wage increase.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution authorizing Frank Lembo be placed on non-probationary status and that he be awarded an
hourly wage increase, effective
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION CARRIED
Mr. White stated that he would like a resolution approving the three-year agreement with the employees. Mr. White explained that everyone agreed to 3.5% for FY ’07, 3.5% for FY ’08 and 4.0% for FY ’09 with a guarantee there would be no requirements to contribute to the cost of their health benefits.
Commissioner Covelli stated that he would work with Mr. White to complete the appropriate agreement which will also stipulate that the Authority has agreed to the hourly differentiation with respect to Jury Duty service. He explained that the Authority acknowledges and recognizes and agrees to the pay differential for Licenses #7 and #8 and that with regards to the health benefits that they will remain non-contributory for the next three years, however, that the Authority reserves the right to change both the network and the provider of the plan, but will guarantee the level of benefits provided.
MOTION Moved by Robert Moshman, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution ratifying an agreement between the Authority and the employees for a three-year salary increase of 3.5% for FY’07, 3.5% for FY’08 and 4% for FY ’09 and including a guarantee that there would be no requirements on the employees to contribute to the cost of their health benefits.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION
CARRIED
Mr. Miller asked if the Board would like to authorize him to discuss settlement with the Borough of Ringwood regarding our pending litigation.
MOTION Moved by Robert Moshman, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution authorizing Mr. Miller to reject the overture made by the Special Attorney
from Ringwood regarding this Authority considering a Settlement.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes.
MOTION
CARRIED
ADJOURN
MOTION Moved by Andrew Bolduc, 2nd by Robert Moshman to adopt a resolution to adjourn this meeting.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Elcavage, Hadley, Moshman and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Covelli was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
The meeting was concluded at
Minutes respectively submitted by,