HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 21st 2024 Minutes
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
Page 1 of 17
Approved by the Board of Commissioners 07-23-24
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
_________________________________
May 21, 2024
_________________________________
The Board of Commissioners met at the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) Headquarters-
REO Town Depot located at 1201 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI, at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May
21, 2024.
Chairperson Semone James called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Corporate Secretary, LaVella Todd, called the roll.
Present: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price,
Dale Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle. Non-Voting Commissioners present:
Commissioners J. R. Beauboeuf (East Lansing), Brian Pillar (Meridian Township), and Robert
Worthy (Delta Township)
Absent: None.
Corporate Secretary LaVella Todd declared a quorum.
Commissioner Beth Graham led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by Commissioner David Price, Seconded by Commissioner Tony Mullen, to approve the
Regular Board Meeting Minutes of March 26, 2024.
Action: Motion Carried.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS
Djoachim Lockhart, Lansing, MI spoke about technical issues with paying his bill online.
COMMUNICATIONS
Electronic mail received from Sheila Contreras regarding MLK Water Main - Referred to
Management. Received and Placed on File.
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
Page 2 of 17
Electronic mail received from Jessica Pasche regarding Power Outage - Referred to Management.
Received and Placed on File.
Electronic mail received from Jon Kermiet regarding RICE Plant - Referred to Management.
Received and Placed on File.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Vice-Chairperson David Price presented the Committee of the Whole Report:
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Meeting Minutes
May 14, 2024
The Committee of the Whole of the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) met at the BWL
Headquarters-REO Town Depot located at 1201 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI, on Tuesday,
May 14, 2024.
Committee of the Whole Chairperson David Price called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and
asked the Corporate Secretary to call the roll.
Present: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price,
Dale Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle; and Non-Voting Members Brian Pillar (Meridian
Township) and Robert Worthy (Delta Township)
Absent: J. R. Beauboeuf (East Lansing)
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Public Comments
There were no public comments.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Tracy Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Semone James, to approve
the Committee of the Whole Meeting minutes of March 19, 2024.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion carried. The minutes were approved.
Grant Update
Breina Pugh, Government & Community Relations Manager, presented the grants program
update. Ms. Pugh provided information on current grant applications, recently completed
applications, awarded projects underway, grants awarded, grants not awarded, and upcoming
grant opportunities.
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May 21, 2024
Page 3 of 17
Commissioner Zerkle commended the work that has been completed which resulted in the
receipt of a number of grants. General Manager Dick Peffley added that cooperation between
the BWL and the city helped with the receipt of grants.
Chairperson Price commented that he was impressed with the number and variety of grants
received.
Commissioner James asked the time period of the awarding of the grants. Ms. Pugh responded
that the process started in 2023. GM Peffley responded that most of the grants had been
received in the last year and a half. Commissioner James also asked if a team of grant writers
were employed by BWL. GM Peffley responded that Ms. Pugh received support from several
departments. Ms. Pugh responded that a BWL team is put together with subject matter experts
who can help with community, finance, and technical items, along with Baker Tilly to help with
the technical aspects of the grant writing.
Commissioner James asked what Baker Tilly is paid for assisting. Ms. Pugh responded that it
depends on the amount of time provided.
Bill Line-Item Presentation
Executive Director of Customer Experience Stephen Serkaian introduced Deanna Sparks,
Customer Operations Manager and James Black, Customer Billing & Accounts Supervisor who
gave a line-item presentation of customer billing. Included in the presentation were the
customer account and billing period summary, monthly usage and current charge details for
electric, water and sewer services, available payment options, and customer resources.
Commissioner Mullen commented that the sewer charges are billed for the city. Mr. Serkaian
responded that an RFP has been sent out for a bill presentment provider which, when awarded,
will result in the bill being changed to indicate and differentiate the sewer charges from the city.
Commissioner Mullen also asked whether different townships were charged for services. Mr.
Serkaian responded that a franchise fee was charged. GM Peffley responded that previous
administrations didn’t want the association.
Commissioner Thomas asked whether the actual on-peak and off-peak hours could be placed on
the bill. Mr. Black responded that would be good to include in RFP. Commissioner Thomas
thanked the BWL for not charging a fee to pay the utility bill online and also asked if the bill
payment by phone could be streamlined.
Commissioner Graham asked whether sales tax was charged on the entire utility bill or just
electric usage. Mr. Black responded that he will check and get back with the Commissioners.
Commissioner Zerkle asked whether pointing out to customers the average cost per day would
help the customers save money.
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May 21, 2024
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Commissioner Graham asked whether two meters are available for customers in Lansing as some
townships have. GM Peffley responded that a separate irrigation meter is available but it is
mostly in townships where there are larger lawns.
Commissioner Leek asked if there was a discount offered for autopay. Mr. Black responded that
conversations have been held but it has not been instated yet.
Commissioner James asked whether a credit card fee is charged and how much cost is absorbed
when payments are made by credit cards. Mr. Serkaian responded that credit card payments are
capped at $3,000 without paying a fee. GM Peffley added that there were complaints regarding
the fee and the cost of service was evaluated with having good customer relations.
Commissioner Zerkle commented that there is usually a minimal cost for the receipt of a credit
card payment and BWL doesn’t have a credit charge fee.
Commissioner Mullen asked how many people still receive paper bills and don’t pay online. Mr.
Black responded that a poll would need to be taken but customers are encouraged to receive
electronic billing. Mr. Serkaian responded that a third of the community makes their payments through
the kiosks and lobby but BWL prefers ACH withdrawals for payment. GM Peffley and Ms. Sparks
responded that customers like the face-to-face interaction.
Commissioner Thomas commented that not having a credit charge compared to companies that
do have a charge is beneficial for the BWL.
Commissioner Zerkle commented that no service fee is charged for the sewer and GM Peffley
responded that the city pays BWL to add the sewer charges to the utility bills.
Commissioner Worthy asked about the infiltration charge. Mr. Black responded that the
infiltration charge is for any leaks that occur as all of the water needs to be cleaned.
Commissioner James asked whether sewer costs more than water. GM Peffley responded that
in townships the amounts are more but in Lansing sewer costs two times the amount of water.
Commissioner Pillar asked if business customers had similar bills and if there was notification on
the bills when rate changes are made. Mr. Black responded business billing had a similar setup,
but rate changes are made known through marketing campaigns. Mr. Serkaian added that BWL
responds to media requests, and calls and visits are made to business customers.
Commissioner Thomas commented that the commercial was fabulous and complemented the
team.
Chairperson Price asked if the presentation will be made available and Mr. Black responded that
it will be placed on the BWL website on May 15, 2024.
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May 21, 2024
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Strategic Plan Update
General Counsel Mark Matus announced that proposed enhancements to and the
recommendations by the team for the strategic plan, with the input received from the directors,
employees, stakeholders, and community surveys, would be presented. Mr. Matus requested
adoption by resolution of the amendments to the strategic plan.
Chairperson Price commented on the importance in the concepts of the strategic planning
process.
Amy Adamy, Public Relations & Marketing Manager, presented the proposed changes to BWL’s
Mission, Vision and Values.
Commissioner James asked why changes are being made and whether there would be additional
changes made. Ms. Adamy responded that amendments are being made to the vision and values
to provide clean, concise language that is easy to remember, connects more employees, and is
inclusive for all utilities, and then upon approval today it would be combined with the strategic
plan which is to be completed July 2025.
Chairperson Price commented that operational aspects such as carbon neutrality can be added
later.
Commissioner Zerkle asked about descriptive phrases that are being replaced. Ms. Adamy
responded that utility of the future has been replaced with utility of today, transforming
tomorrow.
Commissioner Schrader commented that the proposed changes were clearer.
Commissioner Mullen commented that financial responsibility needs to remain in the proposed
changes. GM Peffley commented that affordable utility service is included in the vision.
Motion by Commissioner Semone James, Seconded by Sandra Zerkle to forward the Resolution
for 2021-2025 Strategic Plan: Strategic Foundation Statements (Mission, Vision & Values) Update
to the full Board for approval.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
Leah Bucio, Planning Business Analyst, presented the FY2026 strategic plan progress. The plan is
on track to present for approval in Fall 2024.
Commissioner Thomas and Chairperson Price commended the quality of the presentation.
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May 21, 2024
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Resolution Honoring Brian Pillar
Chairperson Price presented a resolution to honor Commissioner Brian Pillar for his service as an
Advisory Commissioner to Meridian Township.
Motion by Commissioner Sandra Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Dale Schrader to approve
the Resolution honoring Brian Pillar for his service on the Board of Commissioners and to forward
it to the full Board for consideration.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion carried.
Other
GM Peffley reported on two items.
1. First S.T.E.P. graduation will be held on May 16th.
2. GM’s response to communication from Dusty Horwitt which urged EGLE to deny the air
permit application for the RICE engines on the basis that he didn’t believe the BWL’s
actions were inclusive with the public and would operate within environmental
guidelines. GM Peffley stated that communications received, and contracts negotiated
regarding the RICE engines were discussed and approved by all Commissioners. GM
Peffley added that BWL employees follow rules and regulations for facility operations and
will continue to do so.
Commissioner Mullen commented that most of the evaluations were received for the three
appointed employees and that for those who haven’t responded yet, the deadline is today.
Adjourn
Chairperson Price adjourned the meeting at 7:06 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
David Price, Chairperson
Committee of the Whole
Finance Committee Chairperson Sandra Zerkle presented the Finance Committee Report:
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes
May 14, 2024
Finance Committee: Sandra Zerkle, Committee Chairperson; Beth Graham; David Price; and
Dale Schrader; Alternates: Semone James, Tracy Thomas; Non-Voting: Commissioners J. R.
Beauboeuf, Brian Pillar, Robert Worthy.
The Finance Committee of the Board of Water and Light (BWL) met at the BWL Headquarters –
REO Town Depot, located at 1201 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
Page 7 of 17
Finance Committee Chairperson Sandra Zerkle called the meeting to order at 7:17 p.m. and asked
the Corporate Secretary to call the roll.
Present: Commissioners Beth Graham, David Price, Dale Schrader, and Sandra Zerkle; Also
present: Commissioners Semone James (Alternate), Tracy Thomas (Alternate), DeShon Leek,
Brian Pillar (Meridian Township), and Robert Worthy (Delta Township).
Absent: None
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Public Comments
There were no public comments.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner David Price, Seconded by Commissioner Dale Schrader, to approve the
Finance Committee Meeting minutes of March 19, 2024.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, David Price, Dale Schrader, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
March YTD Financial Summary
CFO Heather Shawa presented the March YTD Financial Summary. Days Cash on Hand and the
net income remain under target due to the cash outflow from the August storm. The cost of the
bond issuance was not included in the budget and that also contributes to the net income
amount. Retail income is strong and wholesale income is down but offset by lower fuel costs.
The year-end projected was updated and the budget forecast is projected to be at 1.7%. Capital
projects are currently underspent but will increase by year end.
Chairperson Zerkle asked if the Days Cash on Hand would be brought up in the next Financial
Summary. CFO Shawa responded that the budget presentation tonight will show that the budget
will be back on target. Chairperson Zerkle also asked about the wholesale budget and actual
amounts. GM Peffley responded that there were equipment malfunctions at one of the plants.
CFO Shawa stated that the debt to total assets would remain under until further payments are
made on the principle of debt. Days sales outstanding was under due to an increase in receivables
and bad debt is slightly under and expected to improve due to funding from PA95.
Commissioner James asked whether PHP was being offered as a provider. CFO Shawa responded
that the HR Executive Director was working on selecting the best provider.
Rate Strategy Update
CFO Shawa presented the Rate Strategy Update with a prospective timeline. Proposed rates and
tariff charges are to be filed with the Lansing City Clerk 45 days before the public hearing on July
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May 21, 2024
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5, 2024; the Rate Strategy will be presented at the July 11, 2024 Finance Committee Meeting; the
public notice of the hearing will be filed with the Lansing State Journal on August 5, 2024; the
public hearing/rate hearing is proposed to be held on August 20, 2024; the approval of rates and
tariffs are to be approved at a proposed Special Board of Commissioners Meeting on August 27,
2024; and the Year 1 Rates and Year 2 Rates will be implemented October 1, 2024 an October 1,
2025 respectively.
Commissioner Schrader asked what the tariffs were. CFO Shawa and GM Peffley responded that
the tariffs are the costs for different services for residential, commercial, and industrial
customers.
FY 25 Operating Budget and FY25-30 Forecast Presentation and Resolution
CFO Shawa presented the FY 2025-2030 Budget and Forecast. CFO Shawa provided the FY 2024
major accomplishments for the following areas: Customer and Community, Workforce
Engagement and Diversity, Climate and Environment, Operational Resiliency and Continuous
Improvement, and Financial Stability. CFO Shawa also provided information on target metrics
and the focus of the FY2025-FY2030 budget and forecast cycle. She added that the current
strategic plan is supported by the budget and forecast and reviewed the key budget and forecast
assumptions.
Commissioner James asked whether the Return on Equity amount of 6% would be increased for
inflation. GM Peffley responded that instead of increasing the 6% amount, the strategy is to
increase revenue.
Commissioner Thomas asked if the Return on Equity amount would ever be decreased due to a
loss of revenue. GM Peffley responded that the Return on Equity amount can be discussed with
the City.
Commissioner James asked if revenue is greatly increased could the 6% be lowered. GM Peffley
responded that the request would need to be brought to the City.
Commissioner Schrader commented that with the revenue from the onboarding of Ultium, the
revenue will increase substantially. GM Peffley responded in the affirmative and that the impact
from Ultium will be discussed in the 6-year forecast.
Commissioner Zerkle asked what occurs when grant dollars are received that have not been
included in the budget. GM Peffley responded that those grant dollars would be used to offset
future rate hikes. CFO Shawa responded that those grants dollars would also supplement capital
projects and cash flow.
Commissioner Thomas commented that receiving recognition awards will help in receiving
grants.
Scott Taylor, Director of Accounting, Finance and Planning, presented the sales volume history
and forecast, the operating budget and forecast, and the capital portfolio budget and forecast.
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May 21, 2024
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In the operating budget and forecast section, Mr. Taylor provided information from the FY 2025
income statement, the FY 2025 operating expense by category, the 6-year income statement, the
6-year KPIs, the 6-year return on assets, the 6-year cash flow, and the 6-year bonded debt service.
GM Peffley commented that BWL is working with the State of Michigan to acquire grant dollars
to convert steam to hot water.
Commissioner Worthy asked what the other sources of energy besides electric, water, steam,
chilled water, gas, solar and wind. CFO Shawa responded that battery storage is another source
of energy BWL will use.
Commissioner James asked whether no growth in the workforce was a realistic projection. GM
Peffley responded that the BWL was adequately staffed, and that he was confident that staffing
expectations will remain the same through FY 2030.
Commissioner James asked why we weren’t looking at SAP replacement until FY 2030 and are we
looking into utilizing AI (artificial intelligence). CFO Shawa responded that a decision needs to be
made by 2028 to migrate into the cloud service platform or replace SAP and right now SAP is
more than what we need as an ERP. What is best for each department – Human Resources,
Billing, and Customer Operations, is what will be selected. Currently, 30% of functionality of SAP
is used. SAP will be maintained if needed and BWL will be covered. CFO Shawa further stated
that CIO Vern Myers and his team are working on a cyber security plan and looking into the pros
and cons of AI and will be making recommendations. Scott Taylor shared the next steps in the FY
25 Operating Budget and FY25-30 Forecast process.
Motion by Commissioner Dale Schrader, Seconded by Commissioner David Price to forward the
Resolution for the FY2025-2030 Budget and Forecast to the full Board for consideration.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, David Price, Dale Schrader, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
CFO Shawa stated that as a reminder, after filing of the FY 25-30 Budget with City Clerk, BWL will
be invited to the City Ways and Means Committee meeting where she and GM Peffley will give a
high-level presentation to the City Council. GM Peffley commented that these meetings go very
smooth for us.
Commissioner Thomas commended the awesome work on tree trimming being done in his
neighborhood and that they have addressed the concern he shared with GM Peffley. He also
shared the tree trimming signage is now reflective of the BWL mission statement. GM Peffley
stated he would share Commissioner Thomas’ comments with Vegetation Management and that
they stepped up and made the changes to the signage that was 50 years too old.
Retirement Plan Committee (RPC) Updates
CFO Shawa presented the retirement plan committee investment activity and administrative
activity updates for the DB, VEBA, 401a and 457b Plans. No discussion on this item.
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May 21, 2024
Page 10 of 17
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Project Plan Approval and Resolution
CFO Shawa presented the DWSRF project plan, next steps and requested approval through
resolution to be forwarded to the full Board. The resolution is for approval for the next project
plan, and any additional approvals will be via bond resolutions should we receive funding,
including low interest loans.
Commissioner James asked what was the interest rate on the loan. Mr. Taylor responded that
the loan was a low interest loan rate of 1.875 percent and the rates are set by the term of the
loan.
Commissioner Thomas asked how many attended the DWSRF public hearing held on April 29,
2024. CFO Shawa responded that there were about 12 attendees and there were a couple of
kudos and no public comments.
Motion by Commissioner David Price, Seconded by Commissioner Beth Graham to forward the
Resolution for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Project Plan Approval to the full
Board for consideration.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, David Price, Dale Schrader, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
FY2024 Rules and Regulations Audit Results
Director of Internal Audit Elisha Franco presented the FY 2024 rules and regulations audit results.
The audit included a review of the FY 2024 rules and regulations fee and charge calculations,
processes and procedures, and billing for fees and charges.
Commissioner James commended IA Director Franco on her presentation and asked whether
there was a process in place for a security breach and if the information is encrypted at rest and
in transit. Ms. Franco affirmed there is a process in place for a security breach, and as third parties
are responsible for secure encryption, a SOC report or internal control review is necessary. CFO
Shawa also affirmed a process is in place in case of a security breach.
Internal Audit Status Report
Director of Internal Audit Elisha Franco presented the Internal Audit Status Report and provided
the audit progress report.
Commissioner Zerkle commented that the audit was concise and clear.
Commissioner Thomas commented that he was impressed with Internal Auditor Elisha Franco’s
work.
Corporate Secretary LaVella Todd commented that the Commissioners have been provided with
the most current version of the APPA Policymakers Handbook.
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
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Other
There was no other business.
Adjourn
Chairperson Sandra Zerkle adjourned the meeting at 8:39 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra Zerkle, Chairperson
Finance Committee
MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
There were no manager’s recommendations.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no unfinished business.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business.
RESOLUTIONS/ACTION ITEMS
RESOLUTION 2024-05-01
2021-2025 Strategic Plan: Strategic Foundation Statements (Mission, Vision & Values) Update
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners (“Board”) approved the Lansing Board of Water & Light’s
(“BWL”) 2021-2025 Strategic Plan on January 26, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the BWL’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan’s Mission, Vision and Values statements were
supported under the 2021-2025 Strategic Plan; and
WHEREAS, the BWL desires to update the 2021-2025 Strategic Plan’s Mission, Vision and Values
statements for use going forward; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves the updated Mission, Vision and
Values statements be used going forward including for the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan which is
currently in development.
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May 21, 2024
Page 12 of 17
Strategic Foundation Statements
Mission
The mission of the BWL is to provide a safe, reliable and affordable utility experience through
public ownership, climate consciousness and innovative strategies.
Vision
The vision of the BWL is to deliver exceptional utility and customer service. The BWL will provide
environmentally conscious utility products and programs that support regional growth by
retaining a diverse, highly skilled workforce and implementing innovative technology solutions.
Values
The BWL’s values – “CARES” – are as follows:
• Customer Driven - We strive to meet the needs of every customer in every interaction.
• Accountability - We operate with integrity and take ownership for business decisions
made today that will lead to long-term organizational success.
• Respect - We celebrate everyone’s differences, perspectives and traditions.
• Environmentally Focused – We contribute to the health of our community by providing
energy and water from clean sources, reducing waste and promoting sustainable initiatives.
• Safety - Safety is always job one, ensuring a safe working environment and community
for everyone.
Motion by Commissioner David Price, Seconded by Commissioner Beth Graham, to approve the
Resolution for 2021-2025 Strategic Plan: Strategic Foundation Statements (Mission, Vision &
Values) Update at a Board meeting held on May 21, 2024.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION 2024-05-02
Resolution Honoring Brian Pillar
WHEREAS, it is a pleasure to extend this expression of our thanks and best wishes to Brian Pillar
for his service as a Commissioner of the Board of Water & Light; and,
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May 21, 2024
Page 13 of 17
WHEREAS, Brian Pillar was appointed as an Advisory Commissioner of the Board of Water & Light
on July 1, 2023, to represent Meridian Township; and
WHEREAS, He last served as a non-voting member of the Committee of the Whole, Finance
Committee and Human Resources Committee; and
WHEREAS, Brian is a General Manager of IT with the State of Michigan, Department of
Technology, Management and Budget supporting the public safety agencies; and
WHEREAS, on behalf of his colleagues, employees of the Board of Water & Light and the citizens
of Lansing, we offer our sincere gratitude for the time, energy, and talent he devoted as a
Commissioner of the Board of Water & Light.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the members of the Board of Commissioners, hereby
honor and commend Brian Pillar for his year of distinguished service in Regular Board Meeting
this 21st day of May, 2024. We sincerely wish Brian continued success in all his future endeavors
and achieving that which is in the best interest of our community.
Semone James, Chairperson David Price, Vice-Chairperson
J. R. Beauboeuf DeShon Leek
Dale Schrader Beth Graham
Tony Mullen Tracy Thomas
Robert Worthy Sandra Zerkle
Motion by Commissioner Sandra Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner David Price, to approve the
resolution of tribute for the outgoing Commissioner Brian Pillar at a Board meeting held on May 21,
2024.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION 2024-05-03
Fiscal Year 2025-2030 Budget and Forecast
RESOLVED, that the Annual Operating and Capital Budget covering Fiscal Year 2025 is hereby
approved as presented; and
RESOLVED, that the Operating and Capital Forecast for the Fiscal Years 2026-2030 is hereby
accepted as presented; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Corporate Secretary be directed to make the appropriate filings
with the Lansing City Clerk’s office in accordance with the Lansing City Charter regarding the
above actions.
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
Page 14 of 17
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Staff Comments:
Staff recommends an operating and maintenance budget of $403.8M and a capital budget of
$187.6M for Fiscal Year 2025.
The Operating and Capital Budget and Forecast for Fiscal Years 2025-2030 includes forecasted
rate increases. The forecast rate increases are subject to revision and, in any case, prior to
implementation, must be subject to the BWL’s formal rate setting process as per Lansing City
Charter, Section 5-205 which refers to the BWL’s authority to set just and reasonable rates and
defines the public hearing process.
In accordance with the provisions of the Lansing City Charter, Article 5, Chapter 2, Section 5-203.5
and Section 5-203.6, staff recommends the Finance Committee approve the budget and forecast
for presentation and adoption by the Board at its May 21, 2024 board meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Semone James, Seconded by Commissioner Sandra Zerkle, to approve
the Resolution for the Fiscal Year 2025-2030 Budget and Forecast at a Board meeting held on
May 21, 2024.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle
Nays: None
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION 2024-05-04
A Resolution Adopting a Final Project Plan for Water System Improvements
and Designating an Authorized Project Representative
WHEREAS, the Lansing Board of Water & Light (“BWL”) is seeking low interest funding to assist
in its efforts to improve reliability of existing raw water supply, water treatment and distribution
systems through the State of Michigan, Department of Environmental Quality’s (“EGLE”) Drinking
Water State Revolving Fund (“DWSRF”); and
WHEREAS, as a requirement of the DWSRF Loan Program, municipalities applying for DWSRF
loans are required to submit to EGLE an adopted Project Plan (“Project Plan”) describing the
proposed improvement to existing water treatment and distribution systems program projects;
and
WHEREAS, the purpose of the Project Plan is for raw water supply, water treatment plant and
distribution system improvement projects located within the City of Lansing. The projects have
several benefits, which include reducing potential safety hazards, as well as improvements to
reliability, water quality, and flow efficiencies to ultimately increase public health protection; and
WHEREAS, the Project Plan consists of water main replacement projects that will be completed
in partnership with the City of Lansing’s Combined Sewer Overflow project and street
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May 21, 2024
Page 15 of 17
rehabilitation projects, in addition to other areas within the BWL service territory that are in need
of replacement. Raw water supply and water treatment projects will also be done on BWL
property; and
WHEREAS, the BWL authorized OHM Advisors to prepare a Project Plan, which recommends the
construction of the following:
Water Treatment Plant Upgrades
• Dye WCP –replacement of sludge processing pumps, filter press service piping, high
service pump, and filter media in addition to reservoir repairs and basin improvements
• Wise Rd WCP – replacement of ammonia system, filter media and an optimization project.
Water Distribution Improvements
• Multiple locations of water main replacement and looping projects throughout BWL
service territory.
Operational System Improvements
• Elevated storage tank – constructing a 2nd elevated water storage tank near the southern
pressure zone.
• Well drilling to replace aging wells.
• Replace radio network for wells.
WHEREAS, the estimated total project cost of the projects listed above is $171.5 Million; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing to receive public comment on the proposed Project Plan was held on
April 29, 2024; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Lansing Board of Water & Light formally adopts the
selected alternative within the Project Plan.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Water Distribution Principal Engineer, a position currently
held by Michael Lehtonen, P.E., is designated as the authorized representative for all activities
associated with the projects referenced above, including the submittal of said Project Plan as the
first step in applying to the State of Michigan for a Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan to
assist in the implementation of the selected alternative.
Motion by Commissioner Tracy Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner David Price to approve the
Resolution for Adopting a Final Project Plan for Water System Improvements and Designating an
Authorized Project Representative.
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Semone James, DeShon Leek, Tony Mullen, David Price, Dale
Schrader, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
Page 16 of 17
I certify that the above Resolution was adopted by Board of Water & Light Board of
Commissioners on May 21, 2024.
BY: ________________________ ____________________________
LaVella J. Todd Corporate Secretary
________________________ ____________________________
Signature Date
MANAGER’S REMARKS
General Manager Dick Peffley spoke on the following items.
1. The 1st S.T.E.P. Graduation was held on May 15, 2024. It was another successful class,
and Commissioners Mullen, Thomas and Zerkle were able to attend and speak at the
event.
2. GM Peffley will be attending the Mackinac Policy Conference next week in an effort to
procure funding from state officials.
3. GM Peffley was nominated as a distinguished alumni of Lansing Community College and
a video of his LCC Distinguished Alumni Recognition speech was presented.
COMMISSIONERS’ REMARKS
Commissioner Thomas commended General Manager Peffley on the LCC Recognition award
and thanked Commissioner Brian Pillar for his service on the Board.
Commissioner Zerkle thanked Commissioner Brian Pillar for his service on the Board.
Chairperson James thanked Commissioner Brian Pillar for his service on the Board and his help
with the Board of Commissioners Roles and Responsibilities Handbook. She also commended
GM Peffley on his LCC Distinguished Alumni Recognition, as well as the 1st S.T.E.P. program and
the opportunities provided to students in Lansing. She commented that she appreciated the
efforts of the BWL to attract and retain our youth with employment and career opportunities.
GM Peffley responded he would relay the Commissioners’ remarks to the 1st S.T.E.P. committee.
Chairperson James shared a reminder with Commissioners that the City of Lansing Ethics Training
is due June 15. She also shared that Mr. Peffley was kind enough to share information regarding
BWL’s Anti-Harassment Policy Training and that she asked the Corporate Secretary to share the
Anti-Harassment Training with the Commissioners as an opportunity to take the training as they
see fit and that it was a good opportunity to see what the BWL staff is following.
Chairperson noted that the public rate hearing will be held on August 20, 2024.
Regular Board Meeting Minutes
May 21, 2024
Page 17 of 17
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.
ADJOURNMENT
Chairperson Semone James adjourned the meeting at 5:51 p.m.
LaVella J. Todd, Corporate Secretary
Preliminary Minutes filed (electronically) with Lansing City Clerk 07-23-24
Approved by the Board of Commissioners: 07-23-24
Official Minutes filed (electronically) with Lansing City Clerk: 07-24-24