REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY
MINUTES
Regular Meeting
February 28, 2007
The WANAQUE VALLEY REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY conducted a
Regular Meeting, which commenced at
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
There was no flag salute necessary as it was done at t he Reorganization Meeting.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Covelli 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, and Patrick Murray
Commissioners Absent: Robert Moshman
Also Present: Richard Miller, Esq., Williams, Caliri, Miller & Otley
Charles Ferraioli, Jr., CPA, Ferraioli, Weilkotz, Cerullo & Cuva
Lee T. Purcell, Jr., P.E., Lee T. Purcell Associates
John Di Meglio, W.B.S.A. Commissioner
Bill Holt Wanaque Reserve
Gregory White, Facilities Manager
Margaret Maas, Recording Secretary
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.
MINUTES
Regular
Meeting –
The Chairman asked if anyone had any questions or comments
on the Regular Meeting Minutes of
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution accepting the Regular Meeting Minutes of January 24, 2007 as presented.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
REPORTS
Commissioner Hadley stated that before we get into the Reports he would like to congratulate Chairman Covelli on his appointment to Chairman and to say publicly – I didn’t say it at the Reorganization Meeting - that my vote against you was not personal, that it had to do with policy issues regarding Ringwood.
Chairman Covelli thanked Commissioner Hadley for that and stated that his services and those comments are very much appreciated.
REPORTS
Facilities Manager
Noise and Odor Control Report.
Mr. White stated that he had a quick update because it is exactly the same as last month’s report, with one exception.
Mr. White reported that we sampled the media in all the odor control units today, and the samples have been sent to the manufacturer to determine the life expectancy of the media. Mr. White stated that the units are working around the clock. They have been working very well and there have been no further developments with regard to noise or odor controls.
Mr. White
stated that with regard to Noise & Odor Control, Mr. Carroll has scheduled
a meeting at Wanaque Borough Hall this coming Monday night at
MOTION Moved by Robert Hadley, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution authorizing Gregory White, Facilities Manager to attend the meeting on Monday,
March 5, 2007 at 8:00 P.M. at Wanaque Borough Hall, as the representative of WVRSA.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
Wastewater Management Plan Update (WMP)
Mr. White
stated that everyone should have in their meeting folders a letter from NJDEP
responding to our previous letter. Mr.
White stated that he has highlighted several particular sentences in the
document. Mr. White reported that the
NJDEP is proposing that WMP planning responsibilities be delegated to the
individual municipalities. Mr. White
stated that in the case of Wanaque – it would be back to the Wanaque
Borough Sewerage Authority(WBSA), in Ringwood they would be responsible for
their own, and
Mr. White
pointed out that in the letter it states the dates of the last approved WMP for
each Municipality; Ringwood -1998,
Wanaque – 1990 and
Chairman Covelli asked Mr. Miller if he thought it would be appropriate, since in the past it was the responsibility of this Authority to file that WMP on behalf of the three entities, that we draft a letter putting on paper that each Municipality is now responsible for its own WMP and
attaching a copy of the NJDEP letter,.
Mr. Miller responded that it wouldn’t hurt to reinforce that we are not going to go forward, based on the decision by the NJDEP.
Inflow & Infiltration (I&I)
Mr. White reported that there has been no further work done since last month. He reported that there are five (5) excavation repairs that still need to be performed by Fitzpatrick. Mr. White stated that due to the weather there has been very little activity.
Mr. White stated that he will be getting together with Mr. Fitzpatrick to find the exact location of where these repairs need to be made and it should be done quickly.
Mr. White
reported that he, Mr. Miller and Mr. Erd have been in discussion with Rob Mac
Namara and Ed Minall of Pulte regarding the old
Mr. White stated that we reminded them of the contractual obligations that they are under to repair this situation. Discussion followed regarding whether the Authority has suffered any consequences due to their not completing this job in a timely fashion.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Plant Security
Mr. White reported that the new automatic gate is partially installed, the electricity has to be run and connected and then the system tested. He stated that the weather has delayed the final installation.
Mr. White stated that the system, when fully functional, will operate on an E-Z Pass type of card or similar device and there will also be an intercom keypad and/or phone system where anybody that isn’t authorized to enter with an E-Z Pass would be able to call in to the office or to any phone within the facility and access can be obtained via that route. Mr. White stated that he believes that it should be completed within the next few weeks, weather dependent.
Discussion ensued on the
Mr. White
stated that the gate would remain open during business hours on business days
to reduce the wear and tear on the gate from the trucks coming in and out. Then at
Mr. White stated that as mentioned earlier, Chairman Covelli and he had an opportunity to speak with Mr. Ed Ho, Executive Director at Rockaway Valley Sewer Authority on several occasions. Mr. White reported that he and his Safety Director Maria Brush came here and gave us an excellent presentation on their plant security. Mr. White stated that it consisted of automatic gates, locking all the buildings with a key or pass card and they also have security cameras located around the facility and inside the all buildings. They showed us how each one of these systems work, how they could view all these areas of the facility from a central location or from a anywhere in the world using a laptop computer. Mr. White stated that he wanted the Commissioners to know that should you wish to have any further discussions on plant security; we have plenty of good information from Mr. Ho, if you would like to see it.
Mr. White stated that he thinks the first step is getting the gate in place and operational and the next item which Mr. Bolduc had brought up many months ago – locking all the doors and securing them. Mr. White stated that the first step with regard to the doors would be getting all the door knobs in place so they can be locked. We also have some doors and frames that have rusted and corroded over the years that would need to be replaced as well. Mr. White stated that of course this would incur some cost for fixing and replacing these items where necessary.
Valley
View at Wanaque TWA Application
Mr. White reported that Mr. Kelly, Engineer for the WBSA has passed on a TWA Application for Valley View at Wanaque for our approval. Mr. White stated that we have received a letter from Mr. Kelly stating that he has reviewed it on behalf of the WBSA, who will be responsible for the collection system and that the flow from the development will flow into
the WBSA lines. Mr. White quoting from Mr. Kelly’s letter reminds us that the flow from this development has been allocated through the Wanaque Housing Group (WHG), which dates back to the middle 80’s.
Mr. White reported that we had reserved 19,350 gallons per day for this development, which was based on 86 town house units. Mr. White stated that the new development, Valley View at Wanaque, will only be discharging 16,460 gallons per day, which is less than the reserved capacity.
Mr. White stated that we have been asked to endorse the Application and the only question this Authority has to answer is whether we have capacity for the development and as stated previously we have been reserving this capacity as per the WHG Agreement.
Mr. Miller explained that the capacity difference we are hearing is that this development is for senior usage as opposed to family usage.
REPORTS
Facilities Manager
Valley View at Wanaque TWA Application Cont.
Commissioner Elcavage asked Mr. White what was his recommendation. Mr. White responded for all the reasons previously stated and as we are obligated under the WHG Agreement, he recommends endorsing the WQM-003 - Statement of Consent – Treatment Works Approval Application for Valley View at Wanaque.
Chairman Covelli asked the Board what was their pleasure.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution entitled “Resolution Authorizing Chairman, Frank Covelli to Endorse Valley View at Wanaque Development – WQM – 003 – Statements of Consent – Treatment Works Approval Application”
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
RFP Solutions, Inc. Service Contract
Mr. White stated that RFP Solutions, Inc., the manufacturer of the new phone system that was installed last year, has inquired if we would like to have a yearly service contract in place for the system. Mr. White stated that they have offered us a price of $972.80 a year. Mr. White stated that he did not respond, as he wanted to get the Board’s opinion and/or approval if you so desire. Commissioner Elcavage asked what the cost of the phone system was. Mr. White said approximately $20,000.00. Mr. White stated that this would be a service –maintenance contract on the phone system.
Chairman Covelli suggested that this be forwarded to Mr. Carroll, PPA. He stated that he believed that Wanaque Borough has the same system from the same manufacturer and possible Mr. Carroll may be able to negotiate a more attractive offer.
Safety Training
Mr. White reported that the Authority will be conducting Safety Training here on March 21st and 29th. Mr. White reported that we have a MEL Safety Institute Certified Instructor coming to perform some Blood Borne Pathogen; Lock-Out/Tag-Out; Respiratory Protections; Jet-Rodder Safety and other training courses for us.
Mr. White stated that if any of the Commissioners would like to attend or are interested, to please let him know.
Mr. White
reported that we will also be performing CPR and Basic First Aid retraining
here in the very near future. Mr. White
reported that we are looking for someone to provide this training. We have previously used
Jet-Vac Truck
Commissioner Bolduc stated that regarding the Jet-Vac, he reported that there has been some concern about the fact, at the local level, that the Jet-Vac has been utilized by this Authority and by the Borough. Commissioner Bolduc stated that they (WBSA) have gotten a written complaint from the Borough pertaining to the use of the Jet-Vac or the misuse of the Jet-Vac. Commissioner Bolduc stated that one of the concerns that they have is that there has got to be a Log kept on the use of the Jet-Vac. He stated that this has got to be mandatory and obviously that will fall under Mr. White’s responsibility, to insure that the employees of the Regional adhere to the proper use of the Jet-Vac as well as the requirement that they log in always.
Mr. White stated that we have only one employee that uses the Jet-Vac and he admitted that he was delinquent in Logging in the book on a recent occasion. Mr. White stated that he was counseled on that and he is well aware of his obligation to log into that book as well as other matters.
Commissioner Bolduc stated that according to the memo we received, there was something like $2,000.00 worth of damage, for a hose that was only two or three weeks old. Mr. White asked if this happened after the Borough used the Jet-Vac or us. Commissioner Bolduc stated that it was after the Regional’s use of the machine. Commissioner Bolduc asked if Mr. White had received a copy of the memo. Mr. White stated that he did not. Commissioner Bolduc stated that he would make sure that Mr. White gets a copy of the memo.
REPORTS
Facilities Manager
Jet-Vac Truck
Mr. White stated that the only knowledge he had was that one of the hoses had a tear in it after our employees used the machine and it was a $300.00 hose, which we have already replaced. Commissioner Bolduc stated that he would see that Mr. White gets a copy of the memo and then he would like a formal reply from him, stating exactly his position and what steps are going to be taken to make sure that both the Borough and the Regional are aware of the requirements.
Mr. White stated that he thinks it would be a wise idea to invite the Borough Sewer Authority and the Town employees to the upcoming Safety Training as well. Mr. White stated that he would write a letter to the Wanaque Borough Sewerage Authority and to Tom Carroll offering them to take advantage of the training. Commissioner Bolduc thanked Mr. White for the offer.
Tour Request
Mr. White
reported that recently he had a call from a local Girl Scout Troop Leader. He stated that she had a group of Girl Scouts
that have to earn their Environmental Merit Badge. She would like to bring her troop here to
the Treatment Facility for a tour. Mr.
White stated that she has suggested
Commissioner Elcavage stated that he would like to make a motion that Mr. White be given the authority to set up and conduct tours through the facility for youth groups to include but not limited to Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Brownies, Schools, High Schools, College students, and organized groups through the Facility at any time that is convenient to Mr. White. Commissioner Elcavage stated that he thinks that it is a wonderful thing to educate the public, particularly youth groups, so they can understand what our towns are doing and what we are doing as an Authority to clean the water and that they need to understand that there is more to it than just flushing. Mr. White stated that he enjoys taking the kids around but he has been a little hesitant to do so while the construction was ongoing, because of the safety concerns..
Chairman Covelli stated that he heartily agrees and he would like to add just one thing, which is more of a procedural issue, that we request a Certificate of Insurance. He stated that he knows that the Girl Scouts carry very good insurance and that the Authority be named as an additional insured as it related to their tour of the facility. Chairman Covelli stated that Mr. White obtain the same from any organization wishing to tour the Facility. If any organization doesn’t have such coverage then it will be at the discretion of - at the minimum - our Attorney or the Board to decide if we want to waive that requirement.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Patrick Murray to adopt a resolution giving authorization to Gregory White, Facilities Manager, to approve requests from organizations wishing to bring their members on a tour of the WVRSA Treatment Facility; providing they provide the Authority with a Certificate of Insurance naming the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority as an additionally insured as it relates to their tour of the facility.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
Annual
Cost for Odor Control
Mr. White stated he was asked by Chairman Covelli to develop an annual cost for our odor control. Mr. White stated that he has done that and that is in the form of a letter, which everyone has a copy of in their folders. Mr. White stated that it involves the replacement of the odor control media, the disposal of the spent media, the purchase of the odor control chemical for the sludge dewatering facility. Mr. White stated that the projected annual cost is approximately $49,000.00.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Annual Cost for Odor Control Cont.
Mr. White stated that Chairman Covelli also asked that I provide the replacement cost for each of the units; should they ever need to be replaced in the future. Mr. White stated that he utilized the 2006 cost from Contract 1-25, which was a total of $86,300.00.
Mr. White stated that for everyone’s information, we have a budget line item for any purchases with regard to odor control, they will be taken out of that line item and we will be able to account for those costs separately.
Chairman Covelli stated that at the last meeting of the local Authority, it was authorized to set up a dedicated account to pay any vouchers that have been or will be billed from the Regional to the local Authority, relating to Odor Control. The monies that will go into that account will strictly be the monies collected from the additional fees charged to the Wanaque Reserve residents. Chairman Covelli stated with this method we will be able to keep accurate track of all monies related to Odor Control for ourselves and for the Auditor. Chairman Covelli asked Mr. White to send a copy of his letter report to both the WBSA and to the Mr. Ferraioli.
Plant Status
Mr. White reported that the plant is functioning very well. He stated that there have been no problems at all and new equipment and the old are all operating well. Mr. White stated that the SCADA system is a tremendous asset to the Authority and we are very happy to have it functioning for us. Mr. White stated that the report was completed.
The Chairman asked the Auditor to give his report.
Accounting
Investments
Mr. Ferraioli stated that at last month’s meeting he and Mr. Miller were asked to review the Certificate of Deposits (CD) that were coming due and to seek rates from various institutions for the reinvestment of those CD’s.
Certificate
of Deposit – Bond Reserve Funds
Mr.
Ferraioli reported that this CD is in Lakeland Bank, Wanaque in the amount of
$1,400,000.00 and was due to mature on
Certificate
of Deposit – Short Term Notes
Mr.
Ferraioli stated that the next CD, in the amount of $1,150,000.00 was scheduled
to mature on
Mr. Ferraioli reported that Lakeland Bank came up with a Money Market Account with an interest rate of 4.5%. Mr. Ferraioli reported when the CD matured the new account was opened with the original amount plus the interest, $1,175,407.95. Lakeland Bank was then authorized to transfer $400,500.00 to Bank of New York.
Mr.
Ferraioli stated that this makes those funds available, should the Authority
need them to pay bills. He stated that
come
Certificate
of Estimated Annual Charge
Mr. Ferraioli stated that every year, once the budget is approved, the Authority creates a document to be presented to the WBSA certifying what the Estimated Annual Charge to the WBSA, for wastewater treatment, for the current Fiscal Year is. The charge of $2,450,000.00, which is the WVRSA FY 2007 Annual Budget, consists of the sum of the Debt Service Charge and Operating service charge.
REPORTS
Accounting
Mr. Ferraioli stated that this Certificate must be authorized by resolution. He then asked for a Resolution authorizing the Certificate of Estimated Annual Charge for Fiscal Year 2007, which is $2,450,000.00.
MOTION Moved by Robert Hadley, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution certifying that the Estimated Annual Charge to the Wanaque Borough Sewerage Authority (WBSA) for wastewater treatment, for Fiscal Year 2007 is $2,450,000.00.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
Audit
Report
Mr. Ferraioli stated that finally we have a resolution stating that you have accepted the Audit Report and the Commissioners will have to sign a certification to that effect.
Mr. Ferraioli stated that although he went over the comments last month he would go over them again tonight:
1. The Authority did not issue 1099 forms to
qualifying vendors. Mr. Ferraioli reported
that that has happened this year.
2. There were several cash receipts that weren’t deposited within 48 hours as required by statute. The Authority will implement procedures to insure that all cash received is
deposited within 48 hours.
3. The Authority’s payroll service is not accounting for State Unemployment Insurance
deductions correctly. The Authority will contact the payroll
service and provide any information necessary to correct the accounting for
State Unemployment Insurance deductions.
Mr. Ferraioli asked if there were any questions on any of the comments of the Audit Report. When there were none, Mr. Ferraioli stated the Commissioners are required to sign the Local Authorities Group Affidavit and the Secretary, Patrick Murray, must sign the Certification of the Resolution, passed here tonight.
The Chairman stated that he would entertain such a motion .
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution accepting
the Audit Report as presented by Mr. Ferraioli.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray
voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution certifying that each governing body member has personally reviewed the annual audit report for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, and specifically has reviewed the sections of the audit report entitled “General Comments and Recommendations”, and has evidenced same by group affidavit in the form prescribe by the Local Finance Board.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
Mr. Ferraioli stated that his report was completed. The Chairman asked for the Engineering Report.
Engineering
Mr. Purcell congratulated the Chairman on his being voted Chairman.
Mr. Purcell stated that he had three things. He stated that the first is a construction status
memo. Mr. Purcell proceeded to distribute the Construction Report and his Agenda.
Mr. Purcell reported that Contract # 1-25 is over 99% completed. He then went over the Engineering report for Contract #1-25
REPORTS
Engineering
1. Septage Receiving Facility – Complete
2. Influent Pumping Station –
The SCADA override connections for the new VFDs need to be completed
Note: Stone Hill Contracting has agreed to reinstall the floats in the wet well
at the treatment plant site at no cost to the Authority. Mr. White has agreed to provide the necessary by-pass pumping for this work.
3. Grit Chambers and
4. Aeration Basins Nos. 1,2 and 3 – Complete.
5. Final Clarifiers – Complete.
6.
7.
The SCADA override connections for the new VFDs for the NPW Pumps need to be completed.
8. Treatment Module
The VFDs for the aerators in AT #4 need to be calibrated and adjusted under load and the harmonic analysis needs to be performed.
9.
Awaiting Contractor’s response to the electrical punch list, which is ongoing now.
10. Haskell Pumping Station – Complete. The backup flow system is working and is tied
into the SCADA system in the plant control building.
11. Final walk-through with the Facility Manager to verify punch list completion to be scheduled probably next week or as soon as the flow system can be reinstalled. Stone Hill is removing their trailers from the site this coming week. The only work remaining will be spring work, which is the lawn restoration work, top soil reseeding, painting repairs as it is required.
The pavement repair between the IPS and the Grit/Chemical Building is holding water and requires reconstruction.
Safety painting and/or repainting at the ends of the platforms on the Final Clarifiers, Grit Dumpster wall and concrete apron at the SW corner of the Septage Receiving Building which is the Contractors responsibility.
12. Final Site Work to be completed in the Spring as listed above.
Mr. Purcell stated that for all intents and purposes Contract #1-25 is completed. Mr. Miller, myself and Mr. White will talk and then Mr. Purcell stated that he will certify, at a near point in time, what I am able to certify.
Mr. Purcell moved on to his Monthly Agenda.
I.. ENGINEERING
REPORT DATED
1-25 – UPGRADES TO THE WPCF – 99% COMPLETE
Mr. Purcell stated that he just completed reporting on that.
II. LTPA ASSISTANCE DURING THE STARTUP PERIOD
– CONTRACT 1-25
Mr. Purcell stated that the way this contract was structured and the way this project was constructed by the Contractor, with their assistance and with Mr. White’s patience and assistance, much of the work as it was completed and could be turned over - was turned over to Mr. White for beneficial use. Mr. Purcell stated that several of the components within this project, have been operational for Mr. White within the last eight months. Mr. Purcell reported that the Odor Control System was one of those that was turned over when completed and there were various other components also.
Mr. Purcell stated that over the next several months, there may be a need for Mr. White, his staff or the Authority to call upon us to give assistance to the Authority, with operational problems. Mr. Purcell stated that his firm would be available to do that. Mr. Purcell stated that his people would need to be paid if we were to do that.
Mr. Purcell stated that there is a new engineer that has been chosen. He stated that there is an Engineering Budget of $21,000.00 and that there is room in the existing budget, if there is a need for us to be called in to do something. Mr. Purcell stated that we must be compensated for such work.
REPORTS
Engineering Cont.
III. SEPTAGE HOLDING TANK SYSTEM 50,000 GALLON CAPACITY
Mr. Purcell stated that the Septage Holding Tank System 50,000 Gallon Capacity has been on the table for discussion with the Authority for several months. Mr. Purcell stated that it certainly will help when you have heavy septage loadings on the treatment plant. Mr. Purcell stated that as it is an open item, that he would highly recommend it at your earliest convenience.
Mr. Purcell stated that there is a cost associated with that – and it is the base flow into the treatment plant everyday. He stated that a portion of whatever the flow is coming into the treatment plant is coming from I & I. Mr. Purcell explained that if there is a flow of 1 MGD coming in – 50,000 gallons is a percentage of that. In the overall O&M/R cost of operating the treatment plant, it would be very easy to establish the dollar portion of that.
Mr. Purcell stated that the Highland Avenue Rehabilitation is an important piece of work and it is not going to be inexpensive.
V. STATUS OF WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN (WMP)
Mr. Purcell
stated that he did receive a copy of the letter that was finally sent to the
Authority. He stated that he made a note
“To each his own”. He stated that
VI. LTPA’S
RECOMMENDATION FOR EXPERT TO ASSIST THE AUTHORITY
IN RESPONDING TO RECENT RESIDENTIAL COMPLAINTS
Mr. Purcell reported that upon the
Authority’s request, he had located an eminently qualified expert to assist the
Authority. Curriculum Vitae of Dr.
Richard T. Dewling, P.E. is on file with the
Authority.
Mr. Purcell stated that this not written on the Agenda, as he was not sure what was going to happen. He stated that he wished the Authority well in all their endeavors. He stated to all the Commissioners, some that I have known for 20 plus years, some for only a few; that it has been a pleasure working with you, with the professionals and the staff of the Authority. He stated that he will miss working with you. Mr. Purcell stated that if he can be of assistance to the Authority – please call him, you know where our office is. We will be glad to assist the Authority in any way you would want us to. Mr. Purcell stated that he has been with the Authority for 21 ˝ years and we would appreciate the opportunity and would like to continue to provide service to the Authority.
Chairman Covelli thanked Mr. Purcell for the report and for those kind words. He then asked for the Legal Report
Legal
Mr. Miller stated that he would like to congratulate the Authority and Management on the clean Audit Report. Mr. Miller stated that he is sure Mr. Ferraioli could address that better than I can. Mr. Miller stated that very often you see the comments and the criticisms take pages. Mr. Miller stated that the kind of comments that were made with respect to this Authority’s operation were really negligible.
Inflow & Infiltration (I&I)
Mr. Miller reported that he talked with Pulte again today and he will pursue the possibility of any negotiations trade off for their delay in correcting the I & I and get some plantings out of it.
Chairman Covelli stated that he would like to add a good component and I think he gave you a little ammunition now. Chairman Covelli stated that Mr. Purcell’s recollection is his recollection of what that infiltration is. Chairman Covelli stated that if you calculate that out, as Mr. Purcell recommended and I concur, with the amount of time that has past since that contract was to have been completed, we will be going into the meeting with a number, which you can negotiate from, and hopefully, you can use that to the betterment of the Authority, but more importantly the residents of Wanaque Reserve. Mr. Miller stated that he would pursue that.
REPORTS
Inflow
& Infiltration (I & I)
Mr. White stated that we have two opportunities where this Authority has a chance to determine our base line flow - in severe drought condition and the other is when we have severe cold when any moisture in the ground is frozen. Mr. White stated that our flows have recently been down in low 800,000 gpd range, which is very close to our base line flow. Mr. White stated that anything above that, which we see on a daily basis, is infiltration. Mr. White stated that one can see that at times we receive a significant amount of infiltration. Mr. White stated that we should be operating in the low to mid 800,000 gpd., every day.
Vouchers
RE: Vouchers M-10177 and M-10179 and M-10180 - FY ‘06
M-10181 thru M-10227 - FY ’07, excluding M-10178
Payment subject to availability of funds.
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 Bolduc asked for discussion. Commissioner Bolduc stated that one of the
vouchers has a comment on it “will be reimbursed from Pulte” – he asked Mr.
White if he could explain. Mr. White
explained that this bill was for work done by National Water Main that is to be
paid for out of the remaining I & I fund.
Mr. White stated that Pulte
cannot pay National Water Main directly, we are going to pay it and then Pulte
has been billed for the reimbursement.
Commissioner Bolduc stated he had one other voucher he didn’t
understand, the voucher is for “
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution to approve payment of Vouchers M-10177, M-10179 and M-10180 for FY '06 and M-10181 thru M-10227, excluding M-10178 with all payments subject to availability of funds.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
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
Elizabeth Parrinello - Mr. White stated that as we discussed in the brief Personnel Meeting we held earlier this evening, and as we all know Mrs. Maas has submitted her resignation and we are all sorry to see her go, the Personnel Committee would like to recommend that upon Mrs. Maas’ retirement on April 1 that Elizabeth Parrinello assume responsibility as Executive Secretary and be compensated at an hourly rate of $17.39. Mr. White stated that she will be classified as a new employee in that position and that she will be subject to the same terms and conditions that are in our Personnel Policy Manual. She will be moving in step progression until the end of her 36 month period. Mr. White stated that she will be subject to performance reviews every 6 months. Mr. White stated that he would like to make that recommendation.
Commissioner Bolduc asked if Mrs. Parrinello would be going to full time. Mr. White stated no that she will work approximately 32 hours per week in the position of Executive Secretary.
Commissioner Elcavage asked who was going to do the meetings. Mr. White stated that Mrs. Maas has submitted a proposal to do so today. He stated that he has reviewed it briefly, that we need to discuss it further in the coming weeks, prior to her retirement, to determine where we are going to proceed with regard to Recording Secretary and the production of the typewritten minutes. Commissioner Elcavage stated that his personal position is that he would be happy to see Mrs. Maas remain as Recording Secretary.
Commissioner Hadley asked if Mr. White had plans to get someone to replace Mrs. Parrinello. Mr. White stated that yes we will need someone to replace her should she become ill or be on vacation. Commissioner Hadley stated his concern that as she was Mrs. Maas’ assistant – will she not need some help also. Mr. White stated that he will be discussing that in the coming weeks and also the proposal Mrs. Maas has submitted.
Commissioner Bolduc stated that he would like to add at this point; we all know that there is some discussion about dissolving the Regional – I would just like have it on the record that should that come about; the position, the hours whatever, may be subject to modification. Commissioner Bolduc clarified that he is not saying there would be a change, that he was just saying that it should be set forth now, rather than someone assuming that the position would be in perpetuity.
Commissioner Elcavage agreed with Commissioner Bolduc and asked Mr. White to see that Mrs. Parrinello is made aware of the appointment first thing in the morning. Commissioner Hadley asked Mr. White if he needed a motion on that appointment. Mr. White stated yes and the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution accepting the recommendation of Mr. White to appoint Mrs. Elizabeth Parrinello as Executive Secretary, at an hourly rate of $17.39 and noting that she will be subject to six month performance reviews as per the Personnel Policy Manual.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray
voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
PUBLIC PORTION
The Chairman stated that at this time he would like to open the meeting to the public. He stated that anyone that would like to address this Board to step up to the microphone and identify themselves.
Ted
Roberto –
PUBLIC PORTION
Ted Roberto Cont.
Commissioner Bolduc stated that if in 60 or 90 days there is still an issue, that the steps he has taken are not working, then he stated that he would be amenable to proceeding with hiring someone else that may have some additional expertise to correct the issue. Commissioner Bolduc stated that he thinks that the prudent way is to allow Mr. White to continue to take the steps that he has taken. Commissioner Bolduc stated that Mr. White has done a number of things and that he also heard from Mr. Holt at the last meeting, he praised the work of Mr. White and thought that he was taking serious, adequate steps to address the issue in a rational and logical manner. Commissioner Bolduc stated that he would like that to continue until such time we find that it doesn’t meet the needs of where we need to go. Commissioner Bolduc stated that he is confident to leave it at status quo to see if it proves out - rather than take another expensive step that obviously we would have to pass on to the rate payers.
Chairman Covelli stated that he would like to comment also before Mr. Roberto responds. Chairman Covelli stated that he agrees and concurs with what his colleague has said. He stated that he would add to the fact that we have actually had an engineer here twice, through our Joint Insurance Fund membership. We have had someone here that has made some recommendations to us that have been implemented or are in the process. Chairman Covelli stated that we have not used the individual that Mr. Purcell has recommended thus far, but that does not mean that engineers have not been here and we have also solicited input from other facilities and how they deal with this. Chairman Covelli stated that WVRSA is not the only facility that is in close proximity to residential housing. He stated that we have utilized those means as well. The Chairman stated that he feels that this Authority has taken a multi-pronged approach in addressing this issue, bearing in mind that we are trying to be as prudent with trying to be responsive as well as being prudent with the rate payers money. Therefore, he would concur with my colleague that we have made a lot of changes around here, we have seen progress in those changes, both tangible and some that will have to be put to the test as the weather changes and there are more demands on the system. He stated that we are in a bit of a lull – the weather has been on our side, but as the spring comes there may be more of an impact. So the proof of the pudding will come as the weather warms.
Mr. Roberto stated that he would like to remind you that the odors are there – even as of last week. He stated that it has been like that this whole year and we are approaching summertime when we are really going to experience problems, if you do have them. Mr. Roberto stated that your engineer, as of tonight, is recommending that you hire an expert or at least look into it. He stated that he thinks it is very important and he thinks that it something the Authority should do as far as the people here are concerned. He stated that he would hate to see the Authority do it only when you are forced to do it. Mr. Roberto stated that the Authority still has time you can make changes yet before the summertime comes. Mr. Roberto stated that he thinks the Authority should listen to Mr. Purcell. He thanked the Board and sat down.
Bill
Holt 8319
Mr. Holt
stated that he had a couple of other issues, one of which has to do with the
Land Swap. He stated that he was hoping
that possibly Mr. White or someone could enlighten him as to what additional
lands, other than the paved road, were included in the land swap that were
given to the Authority. Mr. White stated
that the Authority a 200 ft wide strip of land, which goes on an angle from our
old main gate down to the new access road, where there is a surveyor’s stake on
the north side of the road – straight on a southerly direction down to the
river. Mr. White stated that was the 200
ft strip which was turned over to this Authority as part of the Land Swap. Mr. White stated that Pulte received the old
Mr. Holt stated that on his map it shows the land between the Authority fence to the river as being part of Wanaque Reserve. Mr. White stated that he believed that Mr. Holt is correct, because if the golf course had been constructed – one of the holes was going to run behind the facility. Mr. Holt asked if that was part of the land swap. Mr. White stated no.
PUBLIC PORTION
Bill Holt - Mr. Holt asked if the 200 ft strip went right to the river. Mr. White stated that he was not sure. Mr. White told Mr. Holt that he would check. Mr. White stated that we do not own that portion from our back fence to the river except for the easement for our outfall pipe.
Mr. Holt asked if someone could enlighten him as to how it was decided and by whom as to the Odor Control Units; who made the decision to put them in, was it Pulte’s decision and did they come to you for the design or did your engineer come up with the design and who decided
who was to pay for what.
Mr. Miller stated that his understanding was that it was designed and submitted to Pulte for review and comment. Mr. Miller stated that after having received no response the plan was implemented. Mr. Holt asked who made the design. Mr. White stated that it was done by Mr. Purcell’s office. Mr. Holt stated that Pulte did not have any input to the actual design. Commissioner Bolduc stated that one of the first things that he did, when he got on this Board, was to ask Mr. Miller to send a letter to Pulte to insure that they wanted a system and that they were in agreement and that they had reviewed the plans that were presented to them. Commissioner Bolduc stated that they most certainly were aware of it. Mr. Holt asked if it would be a better way to phrase it – that they were aware of it but were negligent about getting back to you in approving this. Commissioner Bolduc stated that Pulte was fully cognizant of what was going in and that he believed that they were the ones who asked for the system. Mr. Holt stated that his question was simple – confirming that they did not participate in the design of it, they were not active participants. Commissioner Bolduc stated that he did consider them to be an active participant, because they are the ones that asked for the system, the system was given to them, and he believes that their engineers looked at the plans and their silence, as far as he was concerned, is their assent. Mr. Holt asked if the Pulte engineer ever interacted with the WVRSA engineer. And the answer was no. Discussion continued. Mr. Holt stated that the point he would like to get to is – within a residential neighborhood - does this now constitute a necessary part of the plant. He asked “Would you be able to properly function within legal grounds without that odor control system now, within a residential neighborhood”.
Commissioner Bolduc stated that this question was brought up before the Local, your colleague brought it up and stated that he had informed him, that his argument made sense except the premise was wrong and if the premise was wrong his whole argument failed. Commissioner Bolduc stated that the plant was there 20 + years before the development, at the time the plant was built the plant did not need an odor control system. Mr. Holt asked “What legal basis does something that exists, and there is growth around it, believes it does not have to change”. Mr. Holt stated that if you build a residential neighborhood around something that could potentially be a legal nuisance, that legal nuisance has to come up to grade as far as legal requirements. Mr. Holt stated that if the potential odor that could be generated and if the odor control system was not in place it would be a legal nuisance and as it stands now, that system is a necessary part for the day-to-day operation of this facility, otherwise it would be come a legal nuisance. Therefore, Mr. Holt stated that the premise is not wrong. Mr. Holt stated that as progress takes place changes have to be made. Mr. Holt stated that the odor control system is now a standard and a necessary part of the plant, Mr. Holt stated that he fails to comprehend why everyone here doesn’t understand that. Mr. Holt stated that the Authority could not properly operate this plant, without an ongoing set of fines, unless that odor control system was in place.
Mr. Holt closed with the statement that change is inevitable and the argument that just because it was here for all the time that it was here – it shouldn’t have to change is unacceptable to him. Mr. Holt thanked the Commissioners for listening.
Mr. Roberto asked to make an additional comment. He stated that if he felt the way the Commissioners of this Authority feel - that the way you are doing things here is the way it should be – then the Authority should have bought this property instead of Pulte. He stated that if you want to continue to operate the way you are operating here with all the problems you have here such as odor and noise, you should have bought the property and then you wouldn’t have the problems you are having now. He stated that we are here and even as far as the $60.00 we are paying, you make it look like the Reserve created the odor control problem. He stated that the Reserve didn’t create the problem it was there. He stated that if you want to take the attitude you are taking now, then you should have bought all this property and then maybe you wouldn’t have the problem.
Chairman Covelli asked if there was anyone else from the Public that wished to speak. When there was no response he stated that he would entertain a motion to close the Public Portion.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution authorizing closing the Public Portion of the meeting.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
ADJOURN
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution to adjourn this meeting.
On Roll Call Commissioner Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Murray voted yes. Commissioner Moshman was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
The meeting was
concluded at
Minutes respectively submitted by,
Margaret M. Maas, Recording Secretary