REGIONAL SEWERAGE AUTHORITY
REGULAR MEETING
August 30, 2006
MINUTES
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 Meeting
Law, notices of the meeting were furnished to the respective Municipal Clerks
of Ringwood, Wanaque and
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Andrew Bolduc, Frank Covelli, Joseph Elcavage, Robert Hadley, Robert Moshman
Commissioners Absent: Patrick Murray
Also Present: Richard Miller, Esq., Williams, Caliri, Miller & Otley
Charles Ferraioli, Jr., Ferraioli, Wielkotz, Cerullo & Cuva
Lee T. Purcell, Jr., P.E., Lee T. Purcell Associates
Robert Beinfield, Bond Consultant, Hawkins, Delafield & Wood
Gregory White, Facilities Manager
Daniel Mahler, Wanaque Councilman, Liaison to WVRSA
Margaret Maas, Recording Secretary
The Chairman stated that he would entertain a motion for the recognition of William M. Gramlich, Past Chairman – Commissioner upon his passing.
MOTION
WHEREAS, the Commissioners of the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority desire to record their deep sorrow at the death of their esteemed former associate who, as a Commissioner and past Chairman, served with distinction;
RESOLVED, that the Commissioners of the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority hereby give formal expression of their deep sense of loss in the death of William Gramlich, and do hereby note in the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority records the passing from this life of a man respected by his associates, and loved by his friends and family.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman
Voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
A moment of silence was observed by all present.
The Chairman stated that he would like change the order of business to accommodate Mr. Beinfield, Bond Counsel from Hawkins, Delafield & Wood, who is here to advise us with regard to short term borrowing.
Temporary Funding Notes – Short Term Borrowing
Mr. Beinfield had copies of the resolution authorizing the issuance of One Million, Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,500,000.00) Authority Temporary funding Notes. Mr. Beinfield stated that he had conversations with Mr. Ferraioli and Mr. Miller regarding the Authority’s need for some temporary cash flow money. Mr. Beinfield invited Mr. Ferraioli to join in with the explanation. Mr. Ferraioli explained that at the onset of the Construction Project there were questions of how we would pay for it. At that time financing was discussed and it was decided that we did not want to do that, and as we have this contract with Pulte - their payments will cover the cost. At that time Pulte was asked that should it become necessary; would they accelerate the payments and do it so we can complete the project on schedule and so we can accommodate their schedule. Pulte stated yes they would go along with that.
Mr. Ferraioli stated that as it turned out the project moved along even quicker that we thought and when we asked Pulte for the payment they originally said no; as the whole real estate market had slowed down. Mr. Ferraioli stated that they have stepped up to the plate and promised two additional payments. We have received one payment late July and the second was promised for August, but we haven’t seen it yet. Mr. Ferraioli stated that the reason we are doing this financing is that the project is coming in on budget and ahead of time. He stated that part of the financing is that we must notify the Director of Division of Local Financing Board that we are going to be going for financing. Mr. Ferraioli stated that he did and Howard Isez of Department of Community Affairs (DCA) contacted him to ask why. Mr. Ferraioli stated that he explained to him about the project coming in ahead of schedule and on budget, which is somewhat unusual. Mr. Ferraioli stated that the normal is a project of over budget or over schedule and additional funds are necessary.
Mr. Ferraioli stated that the way he chose the number of $1.5 million that it was a number he felt comfortable that would enable us to complete the project. Mr. Ferraioli stated that if the Authority chooses to move forward we can do the paving project or the Septage Holding Tank project, the funds would be available. Mr. Ferraioli stated that it is important that everyone understands, that as far as the budget we will be introducing shortly is concerned, the impact that will be felt will be apparent as we will have to include the interest on the borrowing; but from a cash flow point of view, next year at this time the WBSA will have to give us the $1.5 to pay the principal off and the $1.5 is going to have to be from their proceeds from Pulte.
Mr. Ferraioli stated that Mr. Beinfield has the various resolutions, which are the tools to move forward. Mr. Ferraioli stated that he has spoken with Brian Burke, who has done several financing projects for this Authority, under different banks, he is with RBC. We are happy to work with Brian again, we trust him, and as we have worked together before, we know he understands all the service agreements back and forth. Mr. Ferraioli stated that we are able to do this financing without a credit rating and without an offering statement therefore, the cost of issuing this Deficit Bond is a lot cheaper than if we had to go through the normal routine.
Mr. Miller stated that in the Resolution, Mr. Burke’s fee as Underwriter is for $4,500.00, which in his experience is reasonable and fair. Mr. Miller stated that also in the Resolution it stated that we have the right to close with a rate of interest that will not exceed 5%.
Mr. Miller
stated that we must close before September 30th in order to keep it
in this fiscal year. He further stated
that his office will see to it that the notice will be published on
Chairman Hadley stated that if there were no questions that he would entertain a motion to adopt the Resolution.
MOTION Moved by Robert Moshman, 2nd by Andrew Bolduc to adopt a resolution authorizing the adoption of the Resolution entitled: “Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of $1,500,000.00 Authority Temporary Funding Notes (Series 2006) of the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority” (copy attached).
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman
voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
CORRESPONDENCE
Correspondence
List for
The Chairman stated that if there were no comments or questions on any of the Correspondence, he would declare that they 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 Frank Covelli, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution accepting the Regular Meeting Minutes of July 26, 2006 as presented.
On
Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley, and Moshman voted
yes. Commissioners
MOTION
CARRIED
REPORTS
Facilities Manager
Mr. White stated that he had a few updates for the Commissioners.
Pulte – I & I Work
Mr. White reported that National Water Main is currently completing the grout repairs within the system. He stated that they should be done within a week or two. Mr. White stated that the only remaining work to be done is five excavating repairs. They will be done by Mr. Fitzpatrick shortly. All repair work should be done within the next two or three weeks.
Flow
Mr. White stated that he was pleased to report that with all the rain we have had in the last two days there was only a minor increase in flow, whereas in the past there would have been a tremendous increase. Mr. White stated that he feels that the repairs that have already been completed have made an impact.
Mr. White reported that awhile back when this problem was addressed, New Hope Pipe gave the opinion that they could reline that pipe. That opinion came out of a pre-construction meeting held here at the Authority. Mr. White stated that the gentleman from New Hope Pipe
that gave that opinion subsequently went on vacation and never returned to the company. Mr. White stated that at a subsequent review by Boswell Engineering and National Water Main it was determined that they were not as confident that the pipe can be relined. Mr. White reported that they also brought in the field supervisor and actual field crew for New Hope Pipe that would perform the work and upon their review of the tape that there was no way they could reline that pipe. Mr. White stated that it appears that there will be an excavation involved, whereas a portion of that pipe will be excavated and possibly replaced. Mr. White stated that engineers are currently reviewing the issue and work should commence shortly.
Pulte Update
Mr. White reported that hasn’t met with the committee members recently. He stated that he has had a few complaints of odor and noise that he has dealt with. Mr. White stated that he met with individual home owners, but nothing unusual.
NJUA-JIF By-Law Resolution
Mr. White reported that Mr. Covelli has requested that we table that for the next meeting.
Odor
Control Units
Mr. White reported that our odor control units that we installed around the facility contain a carbon-media and a mixed media and over a period of time that media gets used up and no longer has any absorptive capacity to it. He stated that the life expectancy was anticipated to be six (6) to twelve (12) months. Mr. White reported that the manufacturer performed a service where we sample that media and submit it for analysis every three months, which we did recently.
REPORTS
Facilities
Manager
Odor Control Units
Mr. White stated that they have since determined that the media should last us longer than a year. He stated that they couldn’t pin it down any closer, but that it should be greater than one year. Mr. White stated what that means that it will save us some money in media replacement costs. Mr. White stated that we will continue to sample the media on a quarterly basis; until we can get a handle on just how long it will last.
Mr. White stated that in relation to that there will be a new line item in the budget for approximately $30,000.00 dollars for media supply for the new units. Mr. White stated that while this is a new line item it was discussed and anticipated. Mr. White stated that hopefully it will be less than $30 K, if the media lasts us for greater than a year.
Mr. White
stated that as a reminder
Bronze Signature Plaque – Contract 1-25
Mr. White stated that he had one item with regard to the construction project. He stated that the Specs call for the placement of a Bronze Tablet in the vestibule for the project, as we have done in past projects. Mr. White asked if everyone was in favor of having the Tablet manufactured and placed alongside the previous ones. Mr. White stated that he needs a listing of how everyone would like their names to be spelled out. Mr. White stated that he needed to know this tonight so he can notify the contractor accordingly. Mr. White stated that the cost of that item was budgeted at $1,500.00. He stated that should it not be performed you would be given a credit for that amount. Discussion followed. The outcome of the discussions was the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution to authorize the creation and placement of a Bronze Tablet commemorating the Contract 1-25 – Upgrade to the Wastewater Treatment Facilities, as noted in the Contract 1-25 Specifications.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman
voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
Mr. White stated that he would notify the contractor accordingly and he would get a list of how everyone would like his name displayed.
Septage
Mr. White stated that last year when he and Mr. Ferraioli were preparing the budget and Mr. Ferraioli put in $733,000.00 as Anticipated Revenue – he was sure that was impossible. Mr. White stated that he is very happy to report that he was wrong as it looks like we will be up in the $875,000.00 to $900,000.00 range, which is approximately $150,000.00 above the budget figure.
Mr. White stated that he would like to point out that the employees have done a great job handling the additional work and they deserve a lot of credit as well.
Plant
Mr. White reported that the flows have not increased dramatically with the significant rain that we received. He stated that the flows, before the rain, were down in the high 700’s or approximately 800 Thousand GPD range. We have since gone up a little.
Mr. White reported that the plant is running extremely well. He stated that there is a lot of significant work occurring with the construction project such as; jockeying pumps around, temporary connections to pumps and controls, etc. Mr. White stated that it is a difficult time for the plant and for the operators, but it is proceeding extremely well.
REPORTS
Facilities Manager Cont.
Commissioner Elcavage stated that we are looking at possible $800,000.00 in septage receipts and we are able to do that because of the upgrade of this plant, the cooperation of the local sewerage Authority with the I & I efforts and the fact that the plant is being run properly, which is a credit to Mr. White. He stated that at some time during this meeting and as we now have our funding in place, he feels that we should take another look at the proposed Septage Holding Tank and now that Mr. Ferraioli is present, we could receive his input.
Mr. Ferraioli asked if he wouldn’t mind holding that until next month when we do the budget as that will be one of the items that will be on the Capital Improvement Budget.
NJDEP
Letter
Mr. White stated at last month’s meeting, with the discussion on the WVRSA Wastewater Management Plan, it was discussed that there had been no word from NJDEP yet with regards to the letter the Chairman wrote to Ms. Terry Pilawski.
Mr. White reported that he authored a follow up letter requesting that we receive a response; he made several phone calls to our project person – Maggie. Mr. White reported that those phone calls have not been returned, therefore, he stated that he has no new information.
Accounting
FY 2007
Budget
Mr. Ferraioli stated that he would be meeting with Mr. White and Mrs. Maas to work on preparing the new budget. He stated that he would be setting up a meeting with the Finance Committee to go over the proposed budget before the next meeting.
Engineering
Mr. Purcell stated that he had an Agenda and an Engineering Status Report with him Purcell stated that he would like to read the Engineering Status Report. tonight which he proceeded to distribute. (copies attached)
Item #1
Engineering Report Status on Contract 1-25
1. Septage Receiving Facility
Mr. Purcell reported that the final painting is in progress.
2. Influent
Pumping Station (IPS).
Mr. Purcell reported that the existing pump #1 and control panel were removed.
The new pump #1 and control panel were installed, started-up by the manufacturers and placed on line.
He reported that the painting of new pump #1 and piping is in progress.
Mr. Purcell reported that existing pump #3 was connected to the temporary controller.
He reported that the removal of the existing control panel and installation of the new control panel is in progress.
Mr. Purcell reported that the new transducer and floats were installed in the wet well and are operating the temporary controller.
Stone
Hill Shut Down Claim
Mr. Purcell
stated that he would like to discuss the work on the IPS. Mr. Purcell stated that the Authority had to
make available the IPS for the contractor to work in. Mr. Purcell stated that the timing for this
project was pre-arranged and everyone had their part in getting the job
accomplished. Stone Hill Contracting had
the responsibility to temporarily pump around while he was doing the necessary
work in the wet well. The sub- contractor
Mr. White stated that due to that situation, the contractor has submitted a claim for their costs that evening for slightly over $5,000.00. Their claim is based on the cost for preparation and then they were not able to perform their work due to the non-performance of all County.
REPORTS
Engineering Cont.
Stone Hill Shut Down Claim Cont.
Mr. Miller
stated that after reviewing the claim and discussing it with Mr. Purcell, they
feel that the claim is sustainable, but they both feel that we should pass this
on to the sub-contractor that caused it -
2. Influent Pumping Station (IPS). Cont.
Discussion ensued. One item discussed was why was there a need for someone else t o come in and pump out the wet well when we have our own Jet-Vac. Mr. White explained that our equipment is not capable of doing the job. He stated that our equipment is smaller and we can remove approximately 10 – 15 yds. of debris out of the wet well. For us to use our small truck it would take a whole day to vac it up, fill it up, decant the water etc. Mr. White stated that the time involved would not work. Mr. White stated that the contractor had to get in there to take out the old pump and replace it with a new pump. Mr. White stated that the job was completed the next week. We brought in National Water Company and they cleaned it out satisfactorily and the contractor was able to get in and do his job with no further problem.
Commissioner Moshman stated that if the only question is do we ask for reimbursement – then the answer is yes. The following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Robert Moshman, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution authorizing the payment of the Stone Hill Claim and authorizing Mr. White
negotiate
a fair settlement with
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman
voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
3. Grit
Chambers and Grit Chemical/Building
Mr. Purcell reported that the installation of the air header and baffle is in progress and that the painting of the interior walls, ceiling and doors is in progress
4. Aeration
Basins Nos. 1-3
Mr. Purcell reported that the wires for the new control panels were terminated at the panels.
5. Final Clarifiers
Mr. Purcell reported that there was no work this month.
6.
Mr. Purcell reported that the new roof planks were installed over Microstrainers #1 and #2 and grouted in place.
Mr. Purcell reported that Microstrainer #1 and its Control Panel were placed on line.
He reported that the existing Microstrainer #2 and its control panel were removed. And the new control panel for Microstrainer #2 was installed.
Mr. Purcell reported that the installation of Microstrainer #2 will be completed today.
Mr. Purcell reported that the manufacturer’s start-up Microstrainer #2 is scheduled for tomorrow, August 29th.
Mr. Purcell reported that the start-up of the new NPW pump #2 and control panel was performed and the pump was placed on line.
Mr. Purcell reported that the roof fan over Microstrainers #3 and #4 was installed and the fan and automatic louver are operable, but have not been placed on line by the Authority.
7. Treatment Module
Mr. Purcell reported that the DO probe was installed at the parshall flume but was not energized. The Manufacturer’s start-up of this probe will not be scheduled until the probe on AT #4 is installed.
Mr. Purcell reported that the structural and miscellaneous metal for the new platforms and stairs has been partially delivered. The remainder of these materials is scheduled to be delivered this week.
Mr. Purcell reported that the Bollards were installed.
REPORTS
Item #I
Engineering Report Status on Contract 1-25
8. Shop
Drawing Review and Processing – 99% Complete
Mr. Purcell reported that essentially all of the shop drawings have been completed. The project over all completion is at 75%. It appears that the contractor is going to meet his completion date.
Item #II
–
Mr. Purcell stated that Mr. White has already reported on this issue.
Item # III
LTPA Proposal – WMP – Response to NJDEP’s Letter Dated September 20, 2005 and
To Prepare a New Application
Mr. Purcell stated that this was answered earlier in the meeting by Mr. White.
Mr. Purcell stated that as soon as we get an answer we should move on that and get it on track.
Item #
IV Septage Holding Tank System 50,000 Gallon Capacity
Mr. Purcell stated that it was his understanding that the Authority made a decision that they will not put a change order out. Mr. Purcell stated that it is too late for the contractor to consider that. Mr. Purcell stated that the second consideration was to wait to see about the funding before considering the design and going to public bid. Mr. Purcell stated that the revenue stream was excellent on the septage. He commented that if you get an average 50,000 gpd of flow - that takes away 50,000 gallons of allocatable capacity for the treatment plant. Mr. Purcell stated that if the Authority can see its way clear; the Septage Holding Tank System will smooth out the operation and give Mr. White some relief and he may then be able to justify more capacity.
Mr. Purcell stated that he needs direction from the Authority in order to know what to do.
Mr. Ferraioli asked Mr. White if he had a dollar amount for the Septage Holding Tank.
Mr. Purcell stated that the only dollar amount that was discussed was when it was contemplated that the Septage Holding Tank project be done as a Change Order to the Construction Project. Mr. Purcell stated that to get that cost; he should be preparing an Order of Magnitude of Cost Estimate for a 50,000 gpd Septage Holding Tank System. Mr. Purcell stated that he did not have that figure at this moment. Discussion followed on the benefits of a Septage Holding Tank System.
The outcome of the discussions was that this would be held until next month when the new budget is scheduled to be discussed.
Mr. Purcell stated that his report was completed.
Legal
Land Swap Deal
Mr. Miller stated that they were finally done with the property ex change. He asked Mrs. Maas if she had received copies of those documents and she answered no. Mr. Miller suggested that we send copy’s to the insurance people as we have a new road and a new description of the land exchanged.
Pulte
Mr. Miller stated that Pulte still owes us a final paving coat on the Access Road. Mr. White concurred that the access road has the base coat but still needs the final top coat. Commissioner Elcavage stated that he feels that there are not enough of the NO PARKING signs on that road, as there were tire tracks on the edges of the road where they tried to reseed those areas where they were stopping. There was discussion on when the road will get the top coat.
Mr. Miller reported that he received a call from one of the residents of Wanaque Reserve regarding the odor control and he is aware that there have been other calls regarding the noise. Mr. Miller reported that what happened was they called Pulte and they were told “It is not our problem, call the Health Officer in Wanaque with your complaint”, which they did. Mr. Miller stated that the Health Officer then called the Authority and said that we must control it or there is going to be a problem.
Mr. Miller stated that he is not sure that Pulte’s response is appropriate. He feels that it could have been stated differently; like “; we/they are working on it or they are putting a new system in” etc. Mr. Miller stated that they did have it in their Offering Statement, it was a little hidden, but it did state that there would be some odor from the plant.
REPORTS
Legal
Pulte Cont.
It was suggested that possibly we send a letter to Pulte stating that we feel that was not an appropriate answer to give to the residents and as we do not wish any further confrontation with them, we are requesting that they cease making such statements.
Mr. Miller stated that his report was completed.
OLD BUSINESS
The Chairman asked if there was anything to be discussed under Old Business.
Commissioner Bolduc stated that he would like discuss the fact that the State has not responded to us regarding our request in relation to the Wastewater Management Plan. Commissioner Bolduc stated that also the Borough of Ringwood has not given us a response either. Chairman Hadley (Ringwood Representative) stated that they just keep putting it off at every Council meeting. Commissioner Bolduc stated that if we just continue to ignore that then shame on us, but he feels that the time has come for this Authority to follow through with what we have stated would be the outcome if they did not respond. Commissioner Bolduc feels that with their blatant disregard of our many, many requests that we have no other choice but to institute legal proceedings to collect the funds that they owe us and that he would like to make that a resolution. Discussion followed. The result of the discussion was the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Andrew Bolduc, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution to authorize Mr. Miller, our attorney to institute legal proceedings to collect
the monies owed to this Authority by the Borough of Ringwood.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman
voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
The Chairman stated that he had inadvertently skipped the Voucher report, therefore, he asked for that report at this time.
REPORTS
Vouchers
The
Chairman asked for the voucher report.
RE: Vouchers M-9903 thru M-9946 - FY ‘06
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 stated that he would second the motion – but he had a few questions. He asked regarding Key Equipment voucher. This is the lease for the copying machine and upon reviewing it he noticed that we are being charged an insurance charge. Commissioner Covelli stated that we already have coverage through NJUA-JIF and he would like us to contact them – informing them that we already have coverage and to seek reimbursement for the amounts we have already paid.
Commissioner Covelli stated with regard to the bill from David Zuidema, Inc. – it was noted that appeared to be a copy of the claimant’s signature and it is required that the signature be a live one.
REPORTS
Vouchers Cont.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution to approve payment of Vouchers M-9903 thru M-9946 for FY '06, all payments to be subject to availability of funds.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
OLD BUSINESS
The Chairman asked if there was anything further to be discussed under Old Business. When there was no response the Chairman stated that he would move on to New Business.
NEW BUSINESS
The Chairman asked if there was anything to be discussed under New Business.
Personnel Committee Report
Commissioner Covelli reported that we have received a Loss Control Report from the Safety Office of the NJUA-JIF. He state that he would like to commend Mr. White as it was a very favorable report. Commissioner Covelli stated that this is done by the JIF on an annual basis, to inspect the facilities. He reported that what is important and then reading from the report “The three million dollar renovation, upgrade and odor control project is approximately 80% completed with a final date of November 2nd. The plant is still under some disarray but conditions appear safe. Areas under the care of the construction crew were generally accessible with no major issues found. Commissioner Covelli stated that he thinks that this is a very favorable thing and would like to commend Mr. Purcell, Mr. White and the employees of the Authority – that they we are running as safe as can be expected under these conditions. Commissioner Covelli stated that he would like to go on record that we should accept the report and that Mr. White has informed him that there were two deficiencies found in the report, which have since been corrected. Commissioner Covelli feels that we should acknowledge the report and the fact that deficiencies have been corrected and that we can communicate to the JIF that the deficiencies been corrected.
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Joseph Elcavage to adopt a resolution acknowledging the receipt of the Loss Control Report and authorizing Mr. White
communicate with the NJUA-JIF that all deficiencies have been corrected.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman
voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
New
Employees
Commissioner Covelli reported that the Personnel Committee was charged with the responsibility of interviewing candidates for the newly created position of Additional Mechanic for the facility. He stated that the scope of their work expanded when we had the resignation of a plant operator. The committee reviewed the applications for both positions. The committee then interviewed three individuals. After meeting with all three and deliberating the committee came up with the following recommendation.
The Personnel Committee came to a unanimous conclusion of the two best qualified individuals, and he wished to stress the fact that all three candidates were all well qualified, were Frank Lembo and Timothy Johnson.
Commissioner
Covelli stated that the committee chose for the position of Mechanic, Frank
Lembo of
NEW BUSINESS
Personnel Committee Report. Cont.
New Employees
Mr. White
stated that we are going to make a contingent offer of employment to Frank
Lembo for the position of Maintenance Mechanic/Groundskeeper at a starting
salary of $19.79 per hour with an effective starting date of
Mr. White
stated that we are going to make a contingent offer of employment to Timothy
Johnson for the position of Plant Operator at a starting salary of $16.27 per
hour, with an effective start date of
MOTION Moved by Frank Covelli, 2nd by Andrew Bolduc to adopt a resolution authorizing the hiring of two employees: Frank Lembo for the position of Maintenance Mechanic/Groundskeeper at a starting salary of $19.79 per hour and Timothy Johnson for the position of Plant Operator at a starting salary of $16.27 per hour; with an effective start date of September 11, 2006.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
Commissioner Hadley stated that the Committee would also like to recommend that the third applicant be notified of our decision and that his application be kept current in the event that we should be in a position to be hiring again and he will not need to reapply that he will be offered employment first.
Mr. White stated that during this interview process he worked closely with Mr. Eric Szoke of Mr. Miller’s office, as the Authority had to develop a form called “Pre-employment Investigation Authorization Form”. Mr. White explained that this form enables the Authority to conduct criminal backgrounds, motor vehicle backgrounds check on an employee and as well giving us authorization to perform NJ Department of Transportation Drug screen on the individual. Mr. White stated that he would like have the form approved by resolution.
Mr. Miller stated that this new form gets the employee’s consents to the waiving of any privacy rights and to looking at all these records. Mr. Miller stated that they understand that their employment is conditioned upon receiving those reports.
Mr. White stated that any future employee will be required to sign the authorization. Mr. White stated that they are also required to go to Healthnet/Urgent Care and submit to a physical examination, perform a Pulmonary Function Test and have a Drug Test. Mr. White stated that the cost of this pre-employment work up costs the Authority $55.00 per person.
Mr. White stated that Mr. Miller and Mr. Szoke have prepared another form that goes along with the previous one which he needed to get approval of; which is a “Contingent Offer of Employment” form. Mr. White explained that this form is also signed by the employee. This form notifies the employee of his rights and states that they will receive a pre-employment physical, contingent upon all the above stated checks and that they are an employee at will. Mr. Miller stated that means that they may quit at any time and that we may discharge them at any time. Mr. White stated that the form notifies them that they are a probationary employee for a period of 90 days.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution approving the following forms entitled “Pre-employment Investigation Authorization Form” and “Contingent Offer of Employment Form”, as official forms of the Wanaque Valley Regional Sewerage Authority, to be utilized in all future hiring application processes.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
Mr. White stated that there will have to be some changes made to our Personnel Policy to accommodate the utilization of the Pre-employment Investigation Authorization Form and the Contingent Offer of Employment Form. Commissioner Covelli stated that he would also like to include that form in the Loss Control Program.
NEW BUSINESS
Personnel Committee Report
Richard
Revelant – Mr. White reported that our Night Operator recently had a
successful 27 month performance evaluation; therefore, we need to approve an
increase in hourly salary for the individual from $19.03 per hour to $19.79 per
hour. Mr. White stated that this
increase is retroactive to
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution approving an increase in salary for Richard Revelant, due to a successful 27 month performance evaluation. The increase is from $19.03 per hour to $19.79 per hour and is retroactive to April 20, 2006.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION CARRIED
Employee Meeting Report
It was decided that this report be held over for Closed Session discussion.
Waiver of Health and Medical Benefits
Mr. White stated that the Authority gives the employees the option to voluntarily waive their health and medical benefits. Mr. White stated that in the past the Authority has agreed to
Reimburse 50% of the cost savings realized to the employee.
Mr. White asked the Commissioners if it was their desire to continue that policy and if so at what percentage. Discussion followed. Mr. White stated that last year we realized nearly $45,000.00 in premium savings for the waiving of the benefits, which we reimbursed $23,000.00 and we saved a similar amount for the Authority. Discussion followed. The outcome of the discussions was the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution authorizing the continuation of the program offering the employees the option
of Waiving their Health and Medical Benefits and that they be reimbursed 50% of the realized premium savings to the Authority.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
PUBLIC PORTION
The Chairman opened the meeting to the public and stated that anyone that wished to address the Board may do so at this time.
Councilman Daniel Mahler – Councilman Mahler stated that he had just a few questions. He asked what the date of the Electronic Collection Event was. Mr. White informed him that it was Saturday, September 16th.
Councilman Mahler asked regarding the revenue from the Septage - was that from volume alone or did it include a rate increase. Mr. White stated that there has been no increase in our rates for several years. Councilman Mahler asked to what do we owe the increase. Mr.
White stated that we did get a couple of new haulers – one of which is very large.
Councilman Mahler stated he had one additional question – he asked regarding the new 50,000 gallon Septage Holding Tank – would a larger one be more beneficial.
Mr. White stated that the larger the tank there would be increased costs associated with that. Discussion followed.
Councilman Mahler thanked the Commissioners for answering his questions.
The Chairman stated that he would entertain a motion to close the Public Portion of the meeting and go into Closed Session.
PUBLIC PORTION Cont.
MOTION Moved by Robert Moshman, 2nd by Robert Hadley to adopt a resolution authorizing the closing of the Public Portion of this meeting and moving into Closed Session to discuss employee contract negotiations, and that there may be action taken upon returning to Open Session.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
CLOSED SESSION
Closed
Session commenced at
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Andrew Bolduc to adopt a resolution to return
to Open Session.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
Personnel
Committee Meeting
Commissioner Covelli stated that after discussion in Closed Session it was decided the Committee would meet again with the employees and propose a 3.9% increase for the next three years. The Committee also decided to approve the Shift Differential for anyone that is taken off a premium shift to attend Jury Duty. With regard to their request for compensation for attaining additional licenses beyond the six (6) already approved; the Committee recommended that an additional $.50 be granted to any employee, once he has attained licenses S-4 and C-4 or #7 & #8.
Discussion followed and at the conclusion of those discussions the following motion was moved.
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution to authorize the Personnel Committee to meet again with the employees and offer
them the pay increase as discussed and to inform them of the decision to approve the Shift Differential to anyone called away from a premium shift for jury duty and approve and additional $.50 to any employee that attains their 7th and 8th - S-4 and C-4.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
ADJOURN
MOTION Moved by Joseph Elcavage, 2nd by Frank Covelli to adopt a resolution to adjourn this meeting.
On Roll Call Commissioners Bolduc, Covelli, Elcavage, Hadley and Moshman voted yes. Commissioner Murray was absent.
MOTION
CARRIED
The meeting was concluded at
Minutes respectively submitted by,
Margaret M. Maas,
Recording Secretary