HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 Minutes BWL Approved by the Board of Commissioners 07-28-20
Hometown People.Hometown Power:
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
May 26, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Regular Board of
Commissioners meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx
Conferencing in Lansing, MI, on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. This meeting was publicly notice for 5:30
p.m.
Chairperson David Price called the meeting to order at 5:54 p.m.
Present: Commissioners Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, David Lenz, Anthony Mullen, David Price, Ken
Ross, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle. Non-Voting Commissioners present: Mike Froh (Meridian
Township), Douglas Jester (East Lansing), and Larry Merrill (Delta Township).
Absent: None.
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Commissioner Price led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to approve the Regular
Board Meeting minutes of January 28, 2020.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross, Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
COMMUNICATIONS
Electronic Mail received From or Re:
a. Mail from BWL retiree Jerry Burns re: Defined Benefit Pensioners lump sum payment -
Referred to Management. Received and Placed on File
b. Electronic mail from Mark Lawrence of Mayor Schor's Office re: Street Lighting Style -
Referred to Management. Received and Placed on File
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Commissioner Tony Mullen presented the Committee of the Whole Report:
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Meeting Minutes
April 28, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Committee of the Whole
meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in
Lansing, MI, at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2020.
Committee of the Whole Chair Tony Mullen called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.
Present via WebEx: Commissioners Tony Mullen, Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, David Lenz, David
Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, Sandra Zerkle, and Non-Voting Members: Mike Froh (Meridian
Township), Doug Jester (East Lansing) and Larry Merrill (Delta Township).
Absent: None.
A quorum was declared.
General Manager Dick Peffley introduced the Board of Water and Light's new Human Resources
Executive Director, Lynnette Keller. Ms. Keller provided Commissioners with a quick acquaint of
herself.
On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, Vice Chair Mullen welcomed Ms. Keller as well as the sign
language interpreter, Ms. Rebekah Heinze.
Public Comments
There was a communication received via email from Mark Lawrence regarding LED and acorn style
streetlights.There were no public comments.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Ross, to approve the Committee of
the Whole Meeting minutes of November 5, 2019, February 20, 2020 and February 25, 2020.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
LED Light Replacement Plan
General Manager Peffley introduced BWL Electric System Integrity Engineers, Alex Porter and Brian
Coots, who presented the LED Light Replacement Plan.
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Commissioner Lenz asked the presenters to provide information regarding the amount of light that
is emitted under the new street lamps with the LED lights which cause a high lumen output directly
under the lamp. Mr. Porter responded that there is an increase of lumen output with the LED
lamps, but the acorn design of the new light fixtures reduces the glare in the area around the lamps.
Commissioner Leek asked if both the light fixtures and light bulbs are being replaced and if both are
in the budget. Mr. Coots responded that just the fixtures are being replaced and he will follow up
for the Commissioners on the budgeting that will be needed for the light bulbs.
Commissioner Jester inquired about the controls on the lamps. Mr. Porter responded that most
lamps have a three-pin connector for the lamps to be on or off, but the acorn light fixture
replacements have seven-pin receptacles which will allow for adjusting the amount of light emitted.
Commissioner Froh asked for the source of the LED bulbs that would be placed in the lamps. Mr.
Porter responded that most of the fixtures are produced in Ohio and nearby states, and that bids
will be reviewed from local distributors.
Commissioner Ross inquired about the differences between the several types of lights currently in
use. Mr. Porter responded that in the past, most lights installed were mercury vapor lights but in
the 1970's, high pressure sodium lights were put into use as those lights were more efficient. After
2012, LED's were put into use, and now BWL is moving toward white light.
Commissioner Merrill asked whether the $5 million transition cost incurred per year for the new
lighting would be spread across the board for rate payers or would it also include municipalities and
special assessment districts. Mr. Porter responded that the rates will be at a reduced cost for
customers. Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Heather Shawa responded that a cost to service rate for
the street lighting customers was implemented and will be updated with the $5 million transition
cost at the time of the cost.
Commissioner Zerkle commented that the corridors that recently had new light fixtures installed
appeared safer for pedestrians and asked at what locations lights would be shut off at night. Mr.
Porter responded that lights would remain on at night unless there was an event, such as the Silver
Bells parade, that warranted a dimming of the lights.
Return on Equity(ROE) Renewal Agreement
GM Peffley and CFO Heather Shawa presented and reviewed the Return on Equity (ROE) Renewal
Agreement which is expiring June 30, 2020 and asked for approval of the resolution for the ROE
Amendment No. 5. CFO Shawa reported that the amendment asks for a two-year extension of the
agreement, including specific dollar amounts for 2021-2022 and a recommended fixed dollar
amount for this fiscal year based on what was initially forecasted and budgeted. If forecasted
revenues are met and exceeded, the amendment allows for an upward adjustment of 3% of excess
revenues.
Commissioner Mullen asked whether the 3% adjustment was the 6.2%to 9.2 % change or 3% of the
total dollar value. CFO Shawa responded the 3% related to any revenues that would have resulted
in a calculated amount in excess of the fixed budgeted amount.
Commissioner Price commented that he would support the amendment but would support it
cautiously as the recommendations were arrived before the full effect of COVID-19 was known. The
agreement provides the city with a certain amount but income from residential and business
customers is uncertain.
Commissioner Zerkle asked why a straight dollar amount was recommended rather than a
percentage and why a two-year rather than one-year extension was requested. CFO Shawa
responded that economic development and new industry materializing with an unknown amount
supported a two-year agreement with a fixed base amount for both parties.
Commissioner Ross commented that the amendment was trading vacillation for certainty and was
made based on the scenario that if BWL had a shortfall then the city budget would have a shortfall.
GM Peffley responded that negotiations took place regarding the benefits of a flat rate rather than a
higher percentage.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas to forward the proposed
Resolution for Return on Equity Agreement Renewal Amendment No. 5 dated April 28, 2020 to the
full Board for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross, Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Revised IT Communications Policy
Corporate Secretary Griffin noted that a revised redlined version of the Revised IT Communications
Policy was received after the posting of the packet.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas to accept the late item
redlined IT Policy amendment.
Action: Motion Carried
CFO Shawa reported that the IT Communications Policy was revised based on recommendations
from the IT internal audit performed and asked for acceptance of the resolution for the Revised IT
Communications Policy. The intent of the revision is to clarify the purpose of the operational policy
and mission of the BWL cyber security steering committee and to promote safe and secure use of all
communication for all employees, contractors and clients which access BWL non-public systems.
Commissioner Zerkle asked if the duplication in the policy of the phrase "assets include but are not
limited to..." was intended. CFO Shawa responded that the late item revised redlined version
corrected the duplication. Commissioner Zerkle asked what was considered incidental personal use
that would be allowed. GM Peffley responded that incidental use of BWL technology was
considered answering a limited phone call or email. Commissioner Zerkle asked if the policy
complies with what was requested from the audit review and Internal Auditor Wesley Lewis
affirmed.
Commissioner Mullen asked if the audits performed by BWL CIO also look for seemingly simple
violations. CFO Shawa responded that security system tools scan daily and continuously, and
patches are made weekly/monthly or based on a planned schedule.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas to forward the proposed
Resolution for Revised IT Communications Policy to the full Board for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Human Resources Committee Business
Human Resources Committee Chair Tracy Thomas conducted the Human Resources business
portion of the committee meeting and introduced CFO Shawa and BWL General Counsel Mark
Matus who presented the Retirement Plan Committee Updates.
Retirement Plan Committee Updates
CFO Shawa reported that there were three information updates from prior delegations to the
General Manager and the Retirement Plan Committee (RPC). The new Executive Director of HR,
Lynette Keller, has been added to the RPC which consists of the CFO, the Executive Director of HR,
and the Manager of Finance. Operating procedures which have been reviewed by the BWL legal
department and executives were officially adopted by the RPC. In the Defined Contribution(DC)
Plan there is a Plan Coordinator Change that makes the administrative and investment changes on
behalf of the DC Plan and who is the person on record with ICMA, the DC Plan administrator.
Historically that position was held by an employee in the BWL Payroll and Benefits department but
has now been assigned by delegation of the General Manager to the RPC.
General Counsel Mark Matus reported that the Trust 2 is a plan that was transitioned out of the
Defined Benefit Program and consists of about 25 people who have been in the plan since the 80's.
The purpose of the resolution is to remove the potential conflict of the General Manager having
authority over the plan with the two board appointed employees in it and give authority to the
Commissioners.
Commissioner Thomas commented that the implementation of the authority three months ago was
to except the three employees. Mr. Matus responded that this resolution is to correct that.
Commissioner Zerkle asked whether the HR Committee negotiates with the employee regarding the
plan or if the employee is automatically part of the plan if wanted. Mr. Matus responded that the
employee is assigned to the plan and the HR Committee has influence on what the terms are.
Motion by Commissioner Graham, Seconded by Commissioner Leek to forward the proposed
Resolution for Delegation of Authority to the General Manager Retraction and Amendment to
Defined Contribution Plan and Trust 2 to the full Board for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Mr. Matus stated that the purpose of the resolution to amend plans for compliance was to clarify
the administrative duties for compliance.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Graham to forward the proposed
Resolution for Delegation of Authority to the General Manager to Amend Plans for Compliance to
the full Board for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Finance Committee Business
Finance Committee Chair Ken Ross conducted the Finance business portion of the committee
meeting.
March YTD Financial Summary
CFO Shawa presented the March YTD Financial Summary.
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The financial summary is based on financials going into the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the
pandemic will be provided in the April and May financial summary. CFO Shawa reported the
following: Cash remained steady; Days Cash on hand was at a strong 200; YTD actual revenues was
$285.6 million under the budget of $304 million, a majority of which is from wholesale and relates
to recent planned and unplanned Belle River outages and the Pegasus Wind project; Net Income
YTD was $30 million compared to $14 million budget YTD; the FY 2020 budget of $18 million may
be adjusted due to COVID-19; some scheduled projects will be deferred and some will be worked on
as planned, and the Return on Assets is expected to be on track. Day sales Outstanding and Bad
Debt are expected to be below average due to COVID-19. Employee data, payroll data and benefits
cost are consistent with budget.
Commissioner Froh asked what models are being used to identify and categorize the potential
losses from commercial revenues. CFO Shawa responded that the models are internal financial
models and the finance department is looking for decreases in load and is working with Key Account
representatives who are keeping in contact with large customers. The modeling involves sensitivity
analysis using forecasts of customer load. The current plan is to develop a one-year to two-year best
case/worst case scenarios. CFO Shawa stated that continuous updates will be provided to
commissioners.
Commissioner Jester asked if a change in residential consumption was seen. CFO Shawa replied
that a change hasn't been seen in residential, however a 15-20% Commercial and Industrial impact
is anticipated. GM Peffley responded that there are plans from history where the budget can be
reduced from 5% to 10%. CFO Shawa responded that budget and six-year forecasts will be
presented in the May meeting.
Commissioner Zerkle inquired about the daily budget regarding residential and commercial income.
GM Peffley responded that the BWL will be looking at the revenue that is received when shelter in
place restrictions are lifted for businesses, as that is 80%of revenue.
Commissioner Ross commented that he asked the General Manager and CFO to look at the financial
impact of the pandemic on the BWL and the challenges right now, as the data is evolving. He stated
there might be commodity opportunities as the price of oil is decreasing.
Capital Project Exceedance
Commissioner Ross stated the reason for Capital Project Exceedances is for projects that have an
estimate for funding that has an issue requiring an increase in funds. Management is to keep the
board aware and discloses to the board any authorizations needed for funding. GM Peffley added
that in the past some capital budgets were over-estimated and they didn't hit the threshold to be
brought before the board.
Chief Financial Officer Heather Shawa provided information on the Capital Project Exceedances.
AE- Electric Annual Account Resolution
CFO Shawa requested approval of a resolution to increase the funding for the Electric Annual
Account from $11.6 million to $14.2 million which is a 22% increase. Two specific line items make
up 95% of the request, $1.7 million for increase for extra businesses, and $700, 000 for street light
replacement which has been accelerated.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas to forward the proposed
Resolution for Capital Project Exceedance AE—Electric Annual Account to the full Board for
consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Tainter Gate Trunnion Pin Replacement Resolution
Legal Counsel Matus gave a description of the Trunnion Pin. CFO Shawa provided information on
the requested increase in the budget for the trunnion pin replacement on the Tainter gate. The
length of construction time was under estimated and additional safety measures are being
undertaken.
Commissioner Zerkle asked for the percentage of renewables that were received from the dam. GM
Peff ley responded that about .1-.2%would be received from the dam if power was being generated
from it.
Commissioner Lenz asked whether there is an error in budgeting when capital project budgets go
over budget and what is the average or percentage of projects that are over budget. Commissioner
Ross responded that the information would be brought to a later Finance meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Leek to forward the proposed
Resolution for Capital Project Exceedance Tainter Gate Trunnion Pin Replacement to the full Board
for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Revised Investment Policy Statements
Finance Manager, Mr. Scott Taylor, presented the Revised Investment Policy Statements. The
primary purpose for the investment policy statements are to establish the investment objectives,
the asset allocation policy, the investment performance standards and the procedures for managing
the plan assets. Mr. Taylor reviewed both plans together as they are nearly identical. Changes to
the DB and VEBA plans include administrative and language changes, updates to the RPC, a change
to the target rate of return, addition of real estate investments, and policies become effective upon
approval by the Board. The VEBA plan includes investing a higher percentage in real estate
investments.
Commissioner Ross commented that the Board of Trustees are responsible for periodic decision
making for the plans and authority was delegated to the RPC, for the day to day management of the
plans. The resolutions are to update the policies so that the RPC can manage the plans.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle to consider and vote on the
proposed Resolutions for Statement of Investment Policies, Procedures and Objectives Defined
Benefit (DB) and VEBA Plans together and forward both Resolutions to the full Board for
consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Internal Audit Update
Internal Auditor, Mr. Wesley Lewis, provided the internal audit update.
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Commissioners Zerkle and Thomas congratulated Mr. Lewis for obtaining CISA certification.
Other
Commissioner Mullen stated that an email was received from Mark Lawrence regarding the LED and
acorn style streetlights. The correspondence was sent to GM Peffley for a response.
Commissioners Price, Zerkle, and Mullen thanked Corporate Secretary, Denise Griffin; IT Analyst,
Ben McDonald; and Commissioners Mullen,Thomas, and Ross for a well-run online meeting.
Commissioner Ross asked about the scheduling for the next Board meeting and the Return on
Equity agreements that are to be sent to City Council. The Corporate Secretary responded that the
Board Meeting would be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 as set by resolution; the Committee
meetings will be scheduled as needed and or requested by the chair of a committee.
Commissioner Leek commended GM Peffley on his response to COVID-19, by stopping shutoffs, and
donating $5,000 to United Way. Commissioner Leek asked if there was any way to assist low
income rate payers during this pandemic by giving them credits. GM Peffley responded that longer
times are being allowed to pay amounts due for both residential and commercial rate payers and
the Executive Director of Customer Operations and Communications is looking into ways that the
BWL can assist customers.
Commissioner Jester commended the BWL on their response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
GM Peffley expressed his appreciation to the Board, Ron Byrnes, and the BWL employees for
working together and for helping to develop a return to work strategy. At the request of a
commissioner the following information was provided by General Manager Peffley.
BWL FTE
Total employees (includes 25 contractors) 700
Employees working remote 320
Employees on stand down (paid to stay home) 115
Employees working on site or in the field 260
Employees on FLMA 5
(Next week, employees who are currently on stand down will begin to return to work)
Delta Energy Park Contractors
Pre-COVID-19 workers onsite 260
Post-COVID-19 workers onsite 50*
Normal staffing at this stage of the project 300-350
*Staffing overtime has increased to 150 as of 4/30/20.
Adjourn
Motion by Commissioner Price to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:32 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Anthony Mullen, Chair
Committee of the Whole
Commissioner Ken Ross presented the Finance Committee Report:
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes
May 26, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Finance Committee
meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in
Lansing, MI, at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2020.
Finance Committee Chair Ken Ross, called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. and asked Corporate
Secretary Griffin for the roll call.
Present: Commissioners Ken Ross, Beth Graham, David Lenz, and Tony Mullen. Also, present:
Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Price, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle, and Non-Voting
Commissioners Mike Froh (Meridian Township), Douglas Jester (East Lansing) and Larry Merrill
(Delta Township).
Absent: None
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, Chair Ross welcomed the sign language interpreter, Ms.
Bonnie Schulz.
Public Comments
None.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to approve the Finance
Committee meeting minutes of January 14, 2020.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Ross, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Price,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
April YTD Financial Summary
Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Ms. Heather Shawa, presented the following Year to Date Financial
Review:
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Cash on hand is strong at 206 days and this is a key contributor that will help during the COVID-19
pandemic. The Days Cash on Hand is discussed in the COVID-19 Scenario at the end of the FY21
Budget and Forecast Presentation. The projections due to the pandemic for the FY budgeted net
income was a decrease in electric load between 15-17% and a decrease in water of about 10% and
that has been validated. 0&M Budget YTD is tracking underspend, and Capital Project YTD and
Delta Energy spend have been somewhat impacted by the pandemic. Construction season is just
beginning for the Capital Projects which is where the spend would be realized and the budget is
expected to be at underspend in the next few months. The Return on Assets of 4.5% currently
exceeds budgeted and it will be reviewed in May. Budgeted net income has not been adjusted as
the strong financial position prior to the pandemic is expected to be attained. Of the three ratios
that are below target, days sales outstanding and bad debt are expected to continue to be off target
due to the pandemic. Employee count, payroll data and benefits remain the same as past months.
FY21 Operating Budget and Forecast Presentation
General Manager Richard Peffley introduced the FY21 Operating Budget and Forecast. Prior to
COVID-19 stringent guidelines were put into place to reach competitive rates. CFO Shawa provided
information regarding COVID-19 and the FY21-26 Budget and Forecast. Ms. Shawa reviewed BWL
Strategic Objectives, Key Budget and Forecast Assumptions, Sales Volume History and Forecast by
Utility, Operating Budget and Forecast, Capital Budget and Forecast, and Next Steps.
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Commissioner Ross asked for additional information about City Works and what cost strategies will
be implemented to improve competitiveness in the next rate strategy. Ms. Shawa stated that City
Works is part of the asset management platform and database. Executive Director of Operations,
Mr. Dave Bolan, added that it is a computerized maintenance management system which includes
asset management information and the work order system. The system is also used by the city of
Lansing. Ms. Shawa stated cost strategies being implemented include a recommendation to pool
fleet vehicles and consolidation of departments.
Commissioner Lenz asked how GIS was being utilized and was the development of the software
being done by BWL staff or an outside vendor. Ms. Shawa responded that an outside vendor, SSP,
was developing the software and is working with BWL BSmart employees. Commissioner Lenz
asked if the software was being utilized to identify assets in the field from the operations and
maintenance area. Mr. Bolan responded that there is an application that is on top of the GIS
system. When the work orders are cut from the asset information in City Works, the information is
sent out to the field. There are horizontal assets which are geographically placed process such as
wires.
Commissioner Zerkle asked when the vendor has completed the software will BWL be totally
responsible for the program. Mr. Bolan responded that BWL's GIS department will be responsible
for maintaining the data. Commissioner Zerkle asked about a public relations presentation
regarding rates not changing for a year. GM Peffley responded that the competiveness of the rates
would be evaluated and that there are plans in place for more efficiencies.
Commissioner Merrill asked if there are any established external benchmarks for what an adequate
return on assets should be for a municipal utility. Finance Manager Scott Taylor responded that
metrics provided by APPA do not include return on assets. He said this is partly due to the
requirements being unique for each utility based on their cost of borrowing, expected inflation rate,
and debt ratio.
Commissioner Ross asked for the difference between the previous and current targets. CFO Shawa
responded that the previous target for the current fiscal year was 4.66% and the current target for
the next fiscal year and forecast period is 4.14%. Commissioner Ross asked if the cash reserve
policy identifies the key items on which money is spent in order that there is money on hand in
reserve in case of stress. CFO Shawa affirmed. Commissioner Ross also asked about the downward
trending items and the upward trending items. CFO Shawa responded that downward and upward
trending items were indicated on the slide to signify downside and upside potential in the budget
and the remaining items were stated as facts.
Commissioner Jester asked for additional information on the performance expectation of the
Erickson plant over the next few years considering lower wholesale market prices. GM Peffley
responded that the Erickson plant's official retirement date is 2025 but it will not be generating
electricity entirely throughout that time due to the market.
Commissioner Leek asked if the Delta Energy Park June 2021 date is not expected to be met how far
away is the goal date. GM Peffley responded that commercial operations original target was June
2021 and there could be a minimum of a two-month delay. Commissioner Ross asked what the cost
difference would be between the target dates. GM Peffley responded that the capacity has to be
purchased for a whole year and the cost difference is $13 million.
Commissioner Lenz asked about the difference in the net income for 2026 of$20 million and the net
income of $1.5 million for this year. CFO Shawa responded that the net income is impacted in
FY2021-2022 due to depreciation of the Delta Energy Plant.
Commissioner Merrill asked about the cost of service model for water indicating that there would
be an expected increase of 7.25% per year over a three-year period. CFO Shawa responded that
there is a cost of service model completed every year and the rate strategy for this year includes,
along with electric, a detailed study by rate class for water and updated steam study as well. The
rate increase is approximately$0-$3 per month based on an average customer's consumption.
Commissioner Zerkle asked how competitive the 21.75% rate increase was. GM Peffley responded
that there is a wide variation in water cost due to the quality of treatment and he would follow up
and provide the commissioners with the information.
Finance Manager, Mr. Scott Taylor, spoke about the Capital Portfolio Budget and Forecast.
Commissioner Lenz inquired about the project estimated cost and whether the project is being
attuned to meet the first initial cost in the projected capital budget. Mr. Taylor responded that
most of the capital budget projects are in the project intake phase. Several multi-year projects will
have updated revised numbers due to the phase of the project and each progressive phase is
expected to have less variation. GM Peffley responded that the orange line on slide 17 represents
the project cost which is brought to the Commissioners for approval and if there is a deviation by
15%the Commissioners will be provided the reasons.
Commissioner Zerkle inquired whether a Capital Exceedance approval would be requested every
year if there is a multiple year project in which costs go up every year. GM Peffley responded that
an updated budget is made to be brought back to the Commissioners one time.
CFO Shawa spoke about the scenario that was created for the potential impact of COVID-19
highlighting reduced retail electric lode and water sales for commercial and industrial customers,
reducing fuel and purchased power expense for reduced sales to retail customers, increasing bad
debt expense, and reducing delayed payment charge (DPC) revenue from waived DPCs. Days cash
on hand is the metric most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic economics. Temporary shutdown of
the Erickson plant, suspending non-essential travel and training, adjusting fleet and vehicles
practices, and detailed cost tracking for future reimbursement have been put into action.
Commissioner Zerkle asked if there was an expected date for water shut off for unpaying customers
after the stay safe order is lifted. GM Peffley responded that will be decided after the order is lifted.
GM Peffley spoke about the COVID-19 economic impact and response, employee protection,
customer protection, and employee contribution. He reported that approximately 15% of
commercial customers aren't expected to return but some businesses have been restarting
operation. Increased bad debt and waived delayed payment charges have brought about the need
for the creation of a new policy. The turnoff pool is usually around 600 but has increased to 6,000
and it will take about three weeks for notifications to be sent out after the stay at home order is
lifted. GM Peffley reported that a campaign for employees to donate to Pennies for Power will be
implemented on June 1, 2020. No BWL employees have tested positive for COVID-19, and there
have been no furloughs or layoffs. GM Peffley also stated that all out of state travel, conferences
and training have been suspended.
Commissioner Price recommended that Commissioners abide by the travel restrictions.
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to forward the Resolution
for the FY21 Operating Budget and Forecast to the full Board for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Ross, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Price,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Other
None.
Adiourn
Commissioner Ross adjourned the meeting at 5:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
Ken Ross, Chair
Finance Committee
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS
General Manager Peffley recommended that the Board approve the Resolution for the IT
Communications Policy.
RESOLUTION#2020-05-01
IT Communications Policy
WHEREAS, Internal Audit performed an audit of Cybersecurity Policies and recommended
enhancements to the Communications Technologies Policy of 2016; and
WHEREAS, management has developed additional operating policies supporting the use of
communications technologies and has created a Cyber Security Steering Committee to monitor
and maintain those policies since the establishment of the Communications Technologies Policy in
November 2016; and
WHEREAS, management has proposed a revised Communications Technologies Policy to
incorporate these changes in operations as well as recommended enhancements;
RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the revised Communications
Technologies Policy as recommended by Staff.
Motion by Commissioner Mullen, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas, to approve the IT
Communications Policy Resolution.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no Unfinished Business.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no New Business.
RESOLUTIONS/ACTION ITEMS
RESOLUTION#2020-05-02
Return on Equity(ROE) Renewal
WHEREAS, the City of Lansing has expressed a desire to continue the Agreement Between the City
of Lansing and The Board of Water & Light dated June 30, 1992 (the Agreement), which has been
subsequently extended by means of four Amendments thereto in 2001, 2012, 2013 and 2018,
respectively;
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole (COW) considered the City of
Lansing's request on April 28, 2020;
WHEREAS, the General Manager recommended the Agreement be extended by two (2) years at a
specific dollar amount for Fiscal Years 2020, 2021, and 2022, with some limited upward adjustment
for FY 2021 and 2022 if the BWL's revenues significantly exceed its forecast, which would be
memorialized as Amendment
No. 5;
WHEREAS, the COW has considered the proposed Amendment#5, agreed with the General
Manager's recommendation and approved the Amendment, including authorization for the General
Manager to execute the Amendment, and the Amendment shall be forwarded to the Board of
Commissioners for approval at the.May 2020 meeting.
RESOLVED, the proposed Amendment 5 to the Agreement Between the City of Lansing and The
Board of Water& Light dated June 30, 1992 is approved by the COW, including authorization for the
General Manager to execute the Amendment, and shall be forwarded to the Board of
Commissioners for approval at the May 2020 meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to approve the Return on Equity
(ROE) Renewal for FY 20.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION#2020-05-03
Delegation of Authority to General Manager Retraction and Amendment
to Defined Contribution Plan &Trust 2
WHEREAS, the Board of Water and Light (the "Sponsor") sponsors the Lansing Board of Water and
Light Defined Contribution Plan and Trust 2 (the "Plan");
WHEREAS, in Resolution #2019-11-01, the Sponsor delegated authority to the General Manager
("GM") and the Retirement Plan Committee (the "Committee")that permitted the GM and
Committee to alter the plan design to address business needs and industry practices for the Plan
(the "Delegation") as well as for other plans maintained by the Sponsor; and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor wishes to retract the Delegation as it relates to the Plan only and not to any
other plans maintained by the Sponsor; and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor intends to reserve its authority to amend the Plan, to freeze the Plan, or to
terminate the Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor wishes to restate the Plan's Adoption Agreement to alter the Plan's
eligibility provisions.
THEREFORE, it is:
RESOLVED, that the Sponsor hereby retracts the Delegation as it relates to the Plan only and retains
its authority to amend the Plan, to freeze the Plan, or to terminate the Plan, unless and until
otherwise resolved; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that, after its review, the Sponsor adopts and approves the attached restated
Adoption Agreement, effective as stated therein; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chair of the Board is hereby authorized to execute the restated
Adoption Agreement and related documents on behalf of the Sponsor; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Sponsor indemnifies and holds harmless the GM and each member of
the Committee from and against all liability of any kind, including, without limitation, court costs,
attorneys' fees and other expenses that arise from any legal or administrative proceeding of any
kind that is brought by any person, entity or government agency in connection with the GM's or the
Committee's discharge of its duties relating to the Plan; provided, however, that this
indemnification shall not apply with regard to any proceeding in which the GM or a Committee
member is found to have been grossly negligent or to have violated a law or committed a crime.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas, to approve the Delegation of
Authority to General Manager Retraction and Amendment to Defined Contribution Plan & Trust 2
Resolution.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION#2020-05-04
Delegation of Authority to the General Manager to Amend Plans for Compliance
WHEREAS, the Board of Water and Light (the "Sponsor") sponsors the (a) Lansing Board of Water
and Light Defined Contribution Plan and Trust 1; (b) Lansing Board of Water and Light 457 Deferred
Compensation Plan and Trust; (c) Lansing Board of Water and Light Defined Benefit Plan and Trust
for Employees' Pensions; and (d) Post-Retirement Benefit Plan and Trust for Eligible Employees of
Lansing Board of Water and Light (collectively the "Plans"); and
WHEREAS, in Resolution #2019-11-01, the Sponsor delegated authority to the General Manager
("GM") and the Retirement Plan Committee (the "Committee")that permitted the GM and
Committee to alter the plan design to address business needs and industry practices for the Plans;
and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor wishes to delegate authority to amend the Plans for compliance purposes
due to changes in the law ("Compliance Amendments") to the GM who may further delegate such
authority to the Committee or any successor of the Committee performing the same duties; and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor intends to reserve its authority to freeze the Plans or to terminate the Plans.
THEREFORE, it is:
RESOLVED, that the Sponsor expressly delegates to the GM authority to adopt Compliance
Amendments for the Plans; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Sponsor expressly delegates to the GM the authority to further
delegate to the Committee the authority to adopt Compliance Amendments for the Plans; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Sponsor requires all Compliance Amendments to be communicated to
the Board at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Sponsor ratifies all adopted Compliance Amendments that have been
adopted by the GM or Committee prior to this delegation; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Sponsor reserves its authority to freeze the Plans or to terminate the
Plans; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Sponsor indemnifies and holds harmless the GM and each member of
the Committee from and against all liability of any kind, including, without limitation, court costs,
attorneys'fees and other expenses that arise from any legal or administrative proceeding of any
kind that is brought by any person, entity or government agency in connection with the GM's or the
Committee's discharge of its duties relating to the Plans; provided, however, that this
indemnification shall not apply with regard to any proceeding in which the GM or a Committee
member is found to have been grossly negligent or to have violated a law or committed a crime.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas, to approve the Delegation of
Authority to the General Manager to Amend Plans for Compliance Resolution.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION#2020-05-05
Defined Benefit (DB) Investment Policy Statement
WHEREAS, the Board of Water and Light (the "Sponsor") sponsors the (a) Lansing Board of Water
and Light Defined Contribution Plan and Trust 1; (b) Lansing Board of Water and Light 457 Deferred
Compensation Plan and Trust; (c) Lansing Board of Water and Light Defined Benefit Plan and Trust
for Employees' Pensions; and (d) Post-Retirement Benefit Plan and Trust for Eligible Employees of
Lansing Board of Water and Light (collectively the "Plans"); and
WHEREAS, in Resolution #2019-11-01, the Sponsor delegated authority to the General Manager
("GM") and the Retirement Plan Committee (the "Committee")that permitted the GM and
Committee to alter the plan design to address business needs and industry practices for the Plans;
and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor wishes to delegate authority to amend the Plans for compliance purposes
due to changes in the law ("Compliance Amendments") to the GM who may further delegate such
authority to the Committee or any successor of the Committee performing the same duties; and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor intends to reserve its authority to freeze the Plans or to terminate the Plans.
THEREFORE, it is:
RESOLVED, that the Sponsor expressly delegates to the GM authority to adopt Compliance
Amendments for the Plans; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Sponsor expressly delegates to the GM the authority to further
delegate to the Committee the authority to adopt Compliance Amendments for the Plans; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Sponsor requires all Compliance Amendments to be communicated to
the Board at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Sponsor ratifies all adopted Compliance Amendments that have been
adopted by the GM or Committee prior to this delegation; and
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Sponsor reserves its authority to freeze the Plans or to terminate the
Plans; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Sponsor indemnifies and holds harmless the GM and each member of
the Committee from and against all liability of any kind, including, without limitation, court costs,
attorneys' fees and other expenses that arise from any legal or administrative proceeding of any
kind that is brought by any person, entity or government agency in connection with the GM's or the
Committee's discharge of its duties relating to the Plans; provided, however, that this
indemnification shall not apply with regard to any proceeding in which the GM or a Committee
member is found to have been grossly negligent or to have violated a law or committed a crime.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to approve the Resolution for
the Defined Benefit (DB) Investment Policy Statement.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION #2020-05-06
Voluntary Employees Beneficiary Association (VEBA) Investment Policy Statement
WHEREAS, the Lansing Board of Water & Light (the "Sponsor") sponsors the Post-Retirement
Benefit Plan and Trust for Eligible Employees of Lansing Board of Water and Light (the "VEBA");
and
WHEREAS, the Retirement Plan Committee, established by the Sponsor and delegated certain
duties by the Trustees related to the investment of VEBA assets, periodically reviews the target
rate of return for each plan and, as the result of its most recent review, recommends the target
rate of return for the VEBA be reduced from 7.5%to 7.0%; and
WHEREAS, the Retirement Plan Committee also periodically reviews the investment policy
statement, formally known as the Statement of Investment Policies, Procedures and Objectives,
for the VEBA and, as the result of its most recent review, recommends revisions to language
within the VEBA's investment policy statement; and
WHEREAS, the Retirement Plan Committee along with the General Manager recommends the
Sponsor adopt the revisions which reflect these recommendations in the attached Post-
Retirement Benefit Plan and Trust for Eligible Employees of Lansing Board of Water and Light
Statement of Investment Policies, Procedures and Objectives; and
WHEREAS, the Sponsor wants to adopt the revisions reflected in the attached Post-Retirement
Benefit Plan and Trust for Eligible Employees of Lansing Board of Water and Light Statement of
Investment Policies, Procedures and Objectives;
THEREFORE, it is:
RESOLVED, that, after its review, and based on the recommendation from the Retirement Plan
Committee along with the General Manager, the Sponsor adopts and approves the attached Post-
Retirement Benefit Plan and Trust for Eligible Employees of Lansing Board of Water and Light
Statement of Investment Policies, Procedures and Objectives.
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Ross, to approve the Resolution for
the Voluntary Employees Beneficiary Association (VEBA) Investment Policy Statement.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION#2020-05-07
Capital Project Exceedance—AE—Electric Annual Account
WHEREAS, Lansing Board of Water & Light's (BWL) Policy 15-02, entitled Capital Project Exceedance
Approval necessitates BWL Board of Commission approval for aggregate total budget amounts for
electric, water, steam and chilled water "annual" capital projects that are expected to exceed their
previously approved budget by both 15%and $200,000 prior to completion of the project; and
WHEREAS, the previously approved budget for Capital Project AE— Electric Annual Account was
$11,633,349; and
WHEREAS, the projected final total cost for Capital Project AE—Electric Annual Account is
$14,200,000, should the projects be completed; and
WHEREAS, BWL staff and management reviewed the project cost in detail, which includes but is not
limited to the rationale and circumstances for the increased budget projection; and
WHEREAS, BWL staff and management recommends that the Capital Project AE—Electric Annual
Account be completed despite the projected increased cost; and
RESOLVED, the BWL Board of Commissioners approve completion of Capital Project AE—Electric
Annual Account with a projected final total cost of$14,200,000.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to approve the Resolution for
the Capital Project Exceedance—AE- Electric Annual Account.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION#2020-05-08
Capital Project Exceedance—Tainter Gate Trunnion Pin Replacement
WHEREAS, Lansing Board of Water & Light's (BWL) Policy 15-02, entitled Capital Project Exceedance
Approval necessitates BWL Board of Commission approval for specific capital projects that are
expected to exceed their previously approved budget by both 15% and $200,000 prior to
completion of the project; and
WHEREAS, the previously approved budget for Capital Project PE-20203 MP —Tainter Gate Trunnion
Pin Replacement was $1,653,565; and
WHEREAS, the projected final total cost for Capital Project PE-20203 MP—Tainter Gate Trunnion Pin
Replacement is $2,011,000, should the project be completed; and
WHEREAS, BWL staff and management reviewed the project cost in detail, which includes but is not
limited to the rationale and circumstances for the increased budget projection; and
WHEREAS, BWL staff and management recommends that the Capital Project PE-20203 MP—Tainter
Gate Trunnion Pin Replacement be completed despite the projected increased cost; and
RESOLVED, the BWL Board of Commissioners approve completion of Capital Project PE-20203 MP—
Tainter Gate Trunnion Pin Replacement with a projected final total cost of$2,011,000.
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to approve the Resolution
for the Capital Project Exceedance Tainter Gate Trunnion Pin Replacement.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
RESOLUTION#2020-05-09
Fiscal Year 2021-2026 Budget and Forecast
RESOLVED, that the Annual Operating and Capital Budget covering Fiscal Year 2021 is hereby
approved as presented; and
RESOLVED, that the Operating and Capital Forecast for the Fiscal Years 2022-2026 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.
--------------------
Staff Comments:
Staff recommends an operating and maintenance budget of $329.4M and a capital budget of
$198.9M for Fiscal Year 2021.
The Operating and Capital Forecast for Fiscal Years 2022-2026 includes potential rate increases in
Fiscal Years 2022-2026. The potential rate increases are for forecast purposes only and have not
been approved through a public rate hearing process. 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 26, 2020 board meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle, to approve the Resolution for
the Fiscal Year 2021-2026 Budget and Forecast.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote
Yeas: Commissioners Price, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
MANAGER'S REMARKS
General Manager Peffley informed of the following:
1. GM Peffley provided an update on the Delta Energy Plant with drone footage of construction of
the plant.
2. BWL employees are starting to return to work. Field workers, maintenance, Erickson station
employees and the line department will have started back to work by next week. Office staff will
return within two months.
3. BWL's commercial with the 40+year seniority employees was nominated for a state Emmy. The
commercial was rated in the top five commercials in 2019.
COMMISSIONER'S REMARKS
Commissioner Ross commended GM Peffley and the Financial Team for the extensive financial
review of the impacts of COVID-19 on BWL and asked for additional information to be provided at
the next Board meeting on how the BWL as employer will transition office-based employees back in.
GM Peffley responded that he will provide information at the next Board meeting.
Commissioner Price commended how well BWL has dealt with the COVID-19 challenge and that no
employees have contracted COVID-19.
Commissioner Leek and Commissioner Price commended GM Peffley on Delta Energy Park and the
drone footage.
Commissioner Thomas commented about the transition time between the meetings and thanked
the sign language interpreter for her work.
MOTION OF EXCUSED ABSENCE
None.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Price adjourned the meeting at 6:29 p.m.
M.Denise Griffin,Corporate Secretary
Preliminary Minutes filed(electronically)with Lansing City Clerk:June 3,2020
Official Minutes filed(electronically)with Lansing City Clerk: July 29,2020
Approved 9-22-2020
Hometown People. Hometown Power:
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
July 28, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Regular Board of Commissioners
meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in Lansing,
MI, on Tuesday,July 28, 2020.This meeting was publicly noticed for 5:30 p.m.
Chairperson David Price called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
The Corporate Secretary, M. Denise Griffin, called the roll.
Present: Commissioners David Price, Deshon Leek, David Lenz (arrived at 5:34 p.m.), Tony Mullen, Ken Ross,
Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle. Non-Voting Commissioners present: Douglas Jester (East Lansing), and Larry
Merrill (Delta Township).
Absent: Commissioner Beth Graham
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS FY 2020-2021
Corporate Secretary M. Denise Griffin presented the June 23, 2020 Nominating Committee Report for
Nominating Committee Chairperson, Commissioner Beth Graham, who has an excused absence for this
meeting. The proposed slate of officers for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 is as such: Commissioner David Price
serving as Chairperson; and Commissioner Tracy Thomas serving as Vice Chairperson. There were no further
nominations for the officers' positions.
Motion by Commissioner Leek, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle to approve the nominations of
Commissioner David Price to serve as the Chairperson and Commissioner Tracy Thomas to serve as the Vice
Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.,
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, David Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra
Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Chair Price requested approval for the appointment of Commissioner Tony Mullen as the fourth member of
the Executive Committee to fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Commissioner Tracy Thomas as
Board of Commissioners Vice Chair.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas to approve the appointment of
Commissioner Tracy Thomas to serve as the fourth member on the Board of Commissioners Executive
Committee.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, David Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra
Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Chair Price stated that Committee Assignments for the Commissioners would be sent out next week.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to approve the Regular Board Meeting
minutes of May 26, 2020.
Action: Motion Carried.
Commissioner Price led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mr. Randy Dykhuis of Lansing, MI spoke about the June 30, 2020 COW meeting and expressed favor toward
the increased commitment toward clean energy from 40%to 50% by 2030 and attainment of carbon
neutrality by 2040 but expressed disappointment that the goals were not more aggressive and that the IRP
hasn't been drafted. Mr. Dykhuis commented that it was stated at the meeting that the IRP would not be
approved by the Board of Commissioners and therefore there would not be any oversight. He advised the
Board to provide public hearings for public input and to work with experts, consultants, and outside energy
experts to revise the IRP and to strive for 100% renewables.
COMMUNICATIONS
Chair Price expressed condolences for the passing of former Mayor Virg Bernero's father and that in lieu of
flowers donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society.
Electronic Mail received From or Re:
a. Electronic mail from Steve Harry re: A FIOA Request -Referred to Management. Received and Placed
on File.
b. Electronic mail from Heather Douglas re: IRP -Referred to Management. Received and Placed on File.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Corporate Secretary M. Denise Griffin presented the Nominating Committee Report for Commissioner Beth
Graham:
NOMINATING COMMITTEE MINUTES
June 23, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Nominating Committee meeting of
the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in Lansing, MI, at 4:00
p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2020.
Nominating Committee Chair, Beth Graham, called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. and asked the Corporate
Secretary to call the roll. The following committee members were present: Commissioners Beth Graham,
Deshon Leek, David Lenz, and Sandra Zerkle. The following Commissioners were also present: Commissioners
David Price and Ken Ross (arrived @4:02 p.m.)
Absent: None
Public Comments
There were no public comments.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Leek to approve the Nominating Committee
meeting minutes of June 20, 2019.
Action: Motion Carried
Officer& Committee Survey Memorandum and Officer& Committee Survey Results
Nominating Committee Chair Beth Graham stated that the Officer Committee Survey Memorandum and
Committee Survey Results Forms were included in the Nominating Committee meeting packet for review and
asked if there were any questions regarding the documents. There were no questions.
Nomination of Board Officer Candidates for Fiscal Year 2020-2021
Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
Nominating Committee Chair Graham opened the floor for nominations for the Chairperson for the 2020-2021
fiscal year and for the Vice Chairperson for the 2020-2021 fiscal year.
Commissioner Leek inquired about the Administrative Rules of Procedure and questioned if the process was
being followed regarding the Commissioners rotating the Officer positions. Nominating Chair Graham asked
Corporate Secretary Griffin to respond to the inquiry. Corporate Secretary Griffin stated that the role of the
Nominating Committee according to the Rules of Procedure is that the "Board" shall endeavor to rotate the
officer positions annually. Upon conclusion of dialogue the following motion was offered:
Motion by Commissioner Leek, Seconded by Commissioner Lenz to nominate Commissioner David Price to
serve as the Chairperson for the 2020-2021 fiscal year.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, David Lenz, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Leek to nominate Commissioner Tracy Thomas
as the Vice Chairperson for the 2020-2021 fiscal year
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, David Lenz, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Lenz to present the slate of Officers for 2020-
2021 to the full Board for consideration as follows:
Chair: David Price
Vice Chair: Tracy Thomas
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, David Lenz, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Nominating Committee Chair Graham stated that the recommended slate of officers will be presented to the
full Board for consideration at the July 28th Board/Annual Organizational meeting. Nominations will also be
taken from the floor for the Officer positions at the July Board/Annual Organizational meeting.
Excused Absence
None
Adjourn
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 4:13 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Beth Graham, Chair
Nominating Committee
Commissioner Tracy Thomas presented the Human Resources Committee Report:
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Human Resources Committee
meeting of the Lansing Board of Water and Light(BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in Lansing, MI,
at 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday,June 23, 2020.
Human Resources (HR) Committee Chairperson Tracy Thomas called the meeting to order and asked the
Corporate Secretary to call the roll.
Present: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle. Also present:
Commissioners David Lenz, Anthony Mullen, David Price, Ken Ross, and Non-Voting Commissioner Larry
Merrill (Delta Township)
Absent: None
Public Comments
None
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to approve the Human Resources
Committee meeting minutes of November 5, 2019.
Action: Motion Carried.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)for Labor Agreement
General Manager Peffley spoke about the Labor Agreement MOU which requests, due to COVID 19 budget
issues, a one-year extension of the contract from October 31, 2020 to October 31, 2021 to offset labor
increases. Bargaining employees will receive a lump sum payment of $641.00 for extending the contract.
BWL will save $1.1 million with this agreement. Additionally, bargaining employees will be able to sign up for
the Green Plan during the September 2020 open enrollment. It is optional but the more employees that sign
up for the Green Plan the lower health costs will be for BWL. GM Peffley recommended forwarding the
resolution for the labor agreement to the full board for approval.
Commissioner Thomas asked if the lump sum payment would be compounded on the salary of bargaining
employees. GM Peffley responded that it is a one-time payment that doesn't go into the employees' base
pay.
Commissioner Leek asked for a description of the Green Plan. Human Resources Executive Director Lynette
Keller described the Green Plan design change. The Green Plan has the same benefits of the Blue Plan but
with a different cost structure. The Blue Plan deductible is $250 per individual and $500 per family and there
is no co-insurance. The Green Plan deductible is $1000 per individual and $2000 per family and the co-
insurance is $1000 per individual and $2000 per family. There is a difference of 90%and 100%coverage in the
plans where the 10% difference goes toward the co-insurance. The total out of pocket maximum and
prescription program are the same for both plans. The major difference is the cost to the employee which is
lower for the Green Plan.
Commissioner Ross asked if the Green Plan is an HSA Plan. Ms. Keller responded that it isn't and are standard
PPO plans with a very high level of coverage for the employees. The deductible and co-insurance are the
major differences. Commissioner Ross also asked about the plan for non-bargaining employees and an HSA
for bargaining units. Chief Financial Officer Heather Shawa responded that an HSA plan such as the Green
Plan for the bargaining employees is under consideration and currently an FSA plan is in effect.
Commissioner Zerkle commented that all employees pay 20% of the premiums and asked if a copy of the
Green Plan information can be provided to Commissioner Leek. Corporate Secretary Griffin will send the
information to Commissioner Leek.
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Second by Commissioner Leek to forward the Resolution for the
Memorandum of Understanding Extending the 2016-2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement between LBWL
and the IBEW, AFL-CIO, Local 352 to the full board for consideration.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
FY 2021 Charter Appointed Reappointments
Human Resources Chair Tracy Thomas said, "In Accordance with Section 8.1 of our Administrative Rules of
Procedure and the City Charter, the Board must appoint or reappoint its 3 Charter Appointed Employees each
fiscal year". Chair Thomas explained that usually the reappointment resolutions are considered upon
completion of the annual performance reviews, however due to public safety concerns resulting from the
COVID-19 Pandemic and the social distancing requirements, the Committee will move forward with the
reappointment resolutions today, and reserve the opportunity to conduct in-person performance reviews at a
later date.
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Graham to forward the resolution
reappointing M. Denise Griffin to the Charter position of Corporate Secretary, Wesley Lewis to the Charter
position of Internal Auditor, and Richard R. Peff ley to the Charter position of General Manager for FY21 to the
full Board for consideration.
Action: Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Subsequent Steps for Board Appointed Employees Contracts
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle to charge the HR Chair and the Board
Chair with the task of working with the appointed employees on their respective annual merit considerations
after the performance reviews have taken place, on behalf of the Board of Commissioners.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Beth Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Excused Absence
None
Other
None.
Adiourn
Motion by Commissioner Graham, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to adjourn the meeting.
Action: Motion Carried
Meeting adjourned at 5:06 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Tracy Thomas, Chair
Human Resources Committee
Vice Chair Tony Mullen presented the Committee of the Whole Report:
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
June 30, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Committee of the Whole meeting
for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in Lansing, MI, at 5:30
p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020.
Committee of the Whole Chair Tony Mullen called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Present via WebEx: Commissioners Tony Mullen, Beth Graham (arrived @ 6:12 p.m.), Deshon Leek, David
Lenz, David Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, Sandra Zerkle, and Non-Voting Members: Michael Froh (arrived @
5:51 p.m.), Doug Jester (East Lansing), and Larry Merrill (Delta Township).
Absent: None.
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Public Comments
None.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle, to approve the Committee of the Whole
Meeting minutes of April 28, 2020.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Mullen, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Price, Ross,Thomas and Zerkle
Nays: None
Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Update
Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Development, Ms. Brandie Ekren, presented the Integrated
Resource Planning (IRP) Update. Ms. Ekren introduced Mr. Steve Brennan, Planning and Development
Manager, who would be available to answer questions. Ms. Ekren stated a formal report has been made, in
addition to the presentation, which includes all the studies, all the modeling results, and all the stakeholder
feedback comments.
.I AGENDA
Hometown People.Hometown Power.
INTERGRATED RESOURCE PLANNNG
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Ms. Ekren stated that the main purpose of the IRP Plan is to meet the energy needs of its customers in a
manner that is affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible. Ms. Ekren reported on the six main goals
of the Board of Water and Light of meeting the energy needs of its customers, focusing on customer interest
and perspectives, keeping up with rapidly evolving industry and technological changes, keeping ahead of clean
energy goals, increasing clean energy goals, and carbon neutrality as soon as 2040.
Commissioner Zerkle asked if the percentage of income was the same as the 87% revenue received from
electricity from residential customers and 13% revenue from industrial customers. Ms. Ekren responded that
the 87% refers to the number of customers and revenue refers to the two thirds received from industrial
customers. Commissioner Zerkle also asked about BWL not being the hub for electrical energy in a few years.
Ms. Ekren responded that as more customers express an interest to generate their own energy those
customers will be considered energy providers as they will be producing enough energy to serve others. This
is called distributed generation by the BWL.
Commissioner Ross commended Ms. Ekren for setting specific clean energy and carbon goals, commented
about new terms being clearly defined, and asked at what point BWL would be at 100% renewables. Ms.
Ekren responded that clean energy is a combination of renewable energy and energy efficiency and gave as an
example the 2020 goal of 30% clean energy which includes 20% renewable and 10% energy efficiency. The
BWL's goal is to be at 100% renewables but doesn't have a set date yet.
Commissioner Price asked whether BWL was proposing using credits. Ms. Ekren responded that energy
consists of the energy itself, capacity value and renewable credits, and both energy and renewable credits will
be used. Ms. Ekren also responded that carbon offset credits can be used to offset carbon emissions.
Commissioner Lenz inquired about forecasting that customers will be contributing to the BWL energy portfolio
by their own energy production in the future and whether the BWL has a way to offset lost revenue or
generate revenue through those customers. Ms. Ekren responded that there a number of different options
being pursued including offering customers that want to participate in the renewable contracts with a longer
contract so that they don't have to build their own infrastructure.
Commissioner Zerkle asked about the IRP Plan being a 10 to 15-year goal adjustment from the last IRP. Ms.
Ekren responded that 20-year projections and re-evaluations are conducted periodically. Commissioner Zerkle
asked whether the financial impact on customers was a consideration in the plan projections. Ms. Ekren
responded that there is a balance between renewable energy goals, economic needs and financial impacts on
customers.
Commissioner Ross inquired whether the IRP projections included current generation capacity with no
additions. Ms. Ekren affirmed.
Commissioner Zerkle asked what consideration had been given to being the supplier and repairer of solar and
wind equipment and if it was financially feasible. Mr. Brennan responded that there are a lot of common skill
sets with current services provided and although tax incentives aren't in BWL's favor right, it is something that
will be checked into.
Commissioner Thomas and Commissioner Zerkle commended Ms. Ekren and her team for the strategic plan
presentation and new solar program that saved BWL a lot of money.
Commissioner Ross asked when the IRP report will be provided to the Commissioners for review. Ms. Ekren
responded that additional work is being completed and the goal for publishing the report is after the holiday.
Ms. Ekren is planning to provide all data that was reviewed to the stakeholders. The Corporate Secretary Ms.
Griffin responded that the information will be provided on the Commissioners' portal.
Commissioner Price commented that a way to access the information that is easily accessible to the general
public should be provided. Ms. Ekren responded that the information will be provided to the general public
on the website by Ms. Griffin and Ms. Amy Adamy. A link can be provided through an email as with the
stakeholders.
Other
There was no other business.
Adjourn
Motion by Commissioner Price, Second by Commissioner Thomas to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was
adjourned at 6:43 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Anthony Mullen, Chair
Committee of the Whole
Commissioner Tracy Thomas presented the Human Resources Committee Report:
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes
July 16, 2020
The Human Resources Committee of the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) met via WebEx (BWL
Headquarters-REO Town Depot located at 1201 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI) at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday,
July 16, 2020.
Human Resources (HR) Committee Chairperson Tracy Thomas called the meeting to order and asked the
Corporate Secretary to call the roll. The following members were present: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Beth
Graham, Deshon Leek, Sandra Zerkle. Also present Commissioners David Lenz, Tony Mullen, David Price, Ken
Ross, and Non-Voting Commissioner Larry Merrill.
Absent: None
Public Comments
None
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to approve the Human Resources
Committee meeting minutes of May 21, 2019.
Action: Motion Carried.
Board Appointee Performance Reviews
HR Committee Chair Thomas opened the floor for the Board Appointee Performance Reviews.
Corporate Secretary
Corporate Secretary M. Denise Griffin requested a closed session via MS Teams for the purpose of receiving
her contractual year-end performance evaluation as permitted by the Open Meetings Act exemption MCL
15.268(a).
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to enter into closed session MS Teams to
discuss the contractual year-end performance evaluation of Corporate Secretary M. Denise Griffin.
The Human Resources Committee went into MS Teams closed session at 4:05 p.m.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Thomas, Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
Motion by Commissioner Graham, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to reconvene into open session via
WebEx.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Human Resources Committee reconvened to WebEx open session at 4:30 p.m.
General Manager
General Manager Richard Peffley requested a MS Teams closed session for the purpose of receiving his
contractual year-end performance evaluation as permitted by the Open Meetings Act exemption MCL
15.268(a).
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to enter into a MS Teams closed
session to discuss the contractual year-end performance evaluation of General Manager, Richard Peff ley.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Thomas, Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Human Resources Committee went into MS Teams closed session at 4:32 p.m.
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to reconvene into WebEx open session.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Human Resources Committee reconvened to WebEx open session at 5:17 p.m.
Internal Auditor
Internal Auditor, Wesley Lewis, requested a MS Teams closed session for the purpose of receiving his
contractual year-end performance evaluation as permitted by the Open Meetings Act exemption MCL
15.268(a).
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to enter into MS Teams closed session
to discuss the contractual year-end performance evaluation of Internal Auditor, Wesley Lewis.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Thomas, Graham, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Human Resources Committee went into MS Teams closed session at 5:18 p.m.
Motion by Commissioner Graham, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle, to reconvene into WebEx open session.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Human Resources Committee reconvened to WebEx open session at 6:28 p.m.
Other
None
Adjourn
Motion by Commissioner Leek, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to adjourn the meeting.
Action: Motion Carried
Meeting adjourned at 6:32 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Tracy Thomas, Chair
Human Resources Committee
Commissioner Ross presented the Finance Committee Report:
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes
July 21, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Finance Committee meeting for the
Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in Lansing, MI, at 5:00 p.m.
on Tuesday, July 21, 2020.
Finance Committee Chair Ken Ross, called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. and asked Corporate Secretary
Griffin for the roll call.
Present: Commissioners Ken Ross, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, and David Price. Also, present: Commissioners
Beth Graham, Tracy Thomas (arrived @5:33 p.m.), Sandra Zerkle (arrived @5:33 p.m.) and Non-Voting
Commissioners Douglas Jester (East Lansing) and Larry Merrill (Delta Township (arrived at 5:36 p.m.)
Absent: None.
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Public Comments
None.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to approve the Finance Committee
meeting minutes of May 26, 2020.
Approval: Motion Carried
May YTD Financial Summary
Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Ms. Heather Shawa, presented the following Year to Date Financial Review:
Flnannal Sumvury-May 20:A ri.J ti vaarv:;.Lly Cln_n..
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Total cash decreased by approximately$21.2M from the previous month. This is primarily due to Delta Energy
Park (DEP) Pipeline and Construction Manager payments. Restricted construction funds will continue to
decrease each month as the 2019A bond proceeds are spent down to pay for the construction of Delta Energy
Park and other system improvements.
May YTD actual net income of $29M is about $13M over budget, primarily due to under budget expenses.
Wholesale revenue is about $12M under budget FYTD. This is primarily due to Belle River's Units 1 and 2
going into an unplanned outage, as well as Erickson transferring offline due to market/economic conditions.
These factors will continue to cause wholesale revenues to fall further under budget over the remainder of the
year. This, as well as the lower power supply costs, flow through the PSCR and will result in little impact to net
income. As the fiscal year progresses, operating expenses have historically trended closer to budget. As noted
previously, the VEBA credit adjustment is cumulative and represents $9.5M. Nonoperating income is over
budget. This is mostly due to unrealized investment returns FYTD and interest savings from the 2019A and
2019B bond issuances.
FY 2020 YTD 0&M spend is about $11.6M under budget. Again, $9.5M of this is due to the VEBA credit
adjustment. Although FY 2020 YTD capital spend was 17% below budget in May, current projections indicate
we will finish closer to budget, projecting 10% spending variance. Impacts or delays related to COVID-19 are
continually being evaluated. FY 2020 YTD DEP spend remains under budget through May. Many of the
mechanical bid packages that were scheduled to be awarded in Q1 of FY20 have now been awarded. As work
kicked off under these contracts, it was expected that expenses would begin to catch up to budget during Q3-
Q4 of FY20; however, delays related to COVID-19 have impacted our ability to catch up as much as previously
anticipated. The extent of the impact is still being evaluated; however, construction levels have increased,
albeit slowly due to COVID-19 safety restrictions. The actual Return on Assets (RoA) of 4.71% exceeds our
budgeted RoA of 3.95%, as YTD net income remains over budget.
Three out of five ratios are slightly below the benchmark. Debt to total assets is currently underperforming
due to the new debt of issuance of the 2019A bonds. It will increase again slightly as we complete the third
phase of financing for Delta Energy Park before decreasing as we pay off outstanding debt. Days Sales
Outstanding is not beating its benchmark for May and will continue to increase in June due to customer
protections during COVID that have been instituted, including suspension of late fees and a moratorium on
shut-offs. The Bad Debt ratio is also likely to increase due to customer protections that have been put in place
during COVID. BWL has expanded the payment arrangement program which will help minimize the amount of
accumulated balances that will go uncollected.
Employee count YTD of 679, while our current FY21 budgeted headcount is 727, a variance of 48. This is being
supplemented by 32 full time temporary/contract employees, including summer interns. The budgeted
headcount remained higher through May due to the addition of the 12 First Step students and 15 summer
interns.
The Labor $/Hours Worked metric has continued to decline from last month. This is in line with the prior
year's trend; however, much of the decline can be attributed to reduced labor hours, which is comparative to
the previous fiscal year. FYTD 2020 Benefits costs remain close to budget, although the underbudget
difference did increase slightly from the previous month by about $100K primarily due to under budget dental
costs.
Internal Audit Open Management Responses Update
Finance Manager, Mr. Scott Taylor, introduced new Finance employee, Ms. Elisha Franco, Senior Internal
Control Analyst. Mr. Taylor presented the updates to the internal audit management responses.
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Chair Ross inquired how flagged items on the internal audit are removed from the list. Mr. Taylor responded
that meetings are held with the department that has closed an item, he or Ms. Franco will verify that the
flagged item has been addressed and completed, forward the item to the Internal Auditor for his confirmation
and then forward the item to the Commissioners as completed.
Commissioner Mullen asked about succession planning regarding equity and inclusion items. Mr. Taylor
responded that he would follow up with an email to Commissioner Mullen
Commissioner Lenz asked what the requirements are for sole source procurement in dollar amount or
percentage. CFO Heather Shawa responded that, for any purchase over $15,000 that is not an emergent
need, a form is completed by the requestor and is reviewed by the department manager, executive director,
purchasing manager and CFO.
Internal Audit Status Report& Internal Audit Work Plan
Internal Auditor, Mr. Wesley Lewis, presented the internal audit status report and internal audit work plan.
Overview FY 2020 Audit Plan Progress Report
•-- •^ -•• Enaagemenls Completed:
Progress Report 1• Cash Management and Treasury
FY 2020 Audit Plan Pr
� P 2. Fixed Assets
Internal Audit Status Report Proposed FY 2021 Audit Plan
Proposed Revised Audit Charter Enaaaement In Progress:
Presented by: Action Items 1.Energy Risk Management
•
Wesley Lewis
Director of Internal Audit
Finance Committee Meeting
July 21,2020
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Commissioner Thomas asked whether an audit report was given at the last meeting. Mr. Lewis responded
that a fixed assets report was provided. Mr. Lewis will forward a copy of the report to Commissioner Thomas.
Commissioner Merrill asked what audit standards of corporate governance the strategic plan and hotline were
measured against. Mr. Lewis responded that policies and procedures would be compared with similar
industries and a risk assessment would be conducted.
Chair Ross provided the following questions that will be addressed in the presentation of the Internal Audit
Charter:
• Provide background in some specificity on the vendor management program
• The cybersecurity concerns allowing continued access to core data and in what ways the protection of
that data is ensured
• What is proactive auditing and why is it needed at the BWL
• What changes are required by the audit profession
• What is required for the program to be immediately implemented and are there consequences if no
changes are made to the program
• What activities have been implemented toward the program to date
• What policies and procedures are needed to implement the program
• What other utilities are currently using a similar program
• Whether there is a need for additional management resources for the program and what burdens
might the program pose on the BWL organization
Chair Ross stated that the resolution to approve the changes to the Internal Audit Charter would be tabled
until the next scheduled Finance Committee meeting after further discussion and reflection to determine
whether this program feature is to be integrated into BWL's internal audit program.
Internal Audit Charter and Resolution
Internal Auditor, Wesley Lewis, reviewed the proposed changes in the Internal Audit Charter., walking through
the document page by page, and each suggested change in turn.
Chair Ross commented that the draft changes requested by the internal auditor center on three focal areas.
The first is to clarify and reinforce that the internal audit department should have free access to data, books,
and records in the organization. The second is to clarify the relationship between the internal
auditor/department and the general manager/organization. The third is to create a platform to integrate
proactive auditing into our audit program. Chair Ross asked about the standards for the internal audit and
general manager relationship. Mr. Lewis responded that the standards indicate that the internal auditor is to
report to the board of commissioners. Chair Ross inquired whether the issues about the perceived delays in
receiving information and having access were centered around the new program not yet in operation or
whether any delays in information requested were for audits outlined in the approved audit plan, and Mr.
Lewis confirmed that delayed requests concern information sought for the proactive auditing program. Chair
Ross stated that the purpose of the proactive auditing program was to make our internal audit process better
and the decisions for the committee would be to determine whether the program will be effective and
whether to implement the program.
Commissioner Zerkle asked for a definition of a proactive audit and how would the audits be performed
differently. Mr. Lewis responded that using the analytics tool will improve the audit process by identifying
potential errors or irregularities in information. Commissioner Ross inquired to Mr. Lewis whether if a
proactive audit program started tomorrow, would there be a conduit between BWL and the third-party
vendor retained and would encrypted data be transmitted to the vendor and processed through the program.
Mr. Lewis affirmed but emphasized that the information is processed on an offline server—there would be no
direct connection between BWL data systems and the vendor. Mr. Lewis added that the process would be
transparent, and information would be reported immediately.
Commissioner Graham commented that it appeared that the program would be a good monitoring tool and
make the auditing process smoother and more consistent.
Commissioner Merrill inquired about ACE Information Analytics monitoring data in the background 24/7
generating a flag for potential risks and whether the logarithm formula is specific to BWL or to a broader
model. Mr. Lewis responded that data wouldn't be monitored 24/7 and it isn't specific to BWL, but the
enhanced tool would cause work performed to be more timely.
Commissioner Mullen inquired whether all required standards are met by the company when the information
is sent to the company and taken off line. Mr. Lewis responded that the standards are met and that the
company has to go through four processes — vendor vetting process for purchasing, IT and internal audit;
master service agreement (MSA) language; legal process; and cyber security process. Commissioner Mullen
also asked if a process is in place with the company to ensure data privacy. Mr. Lewis responded that the
company will be monitored based on the nondisclosure clause in BWL's MSA with the company.
Commissioner Ross asked if the company had gone through BWL's vendor management program and if it
received the green light to go forward. Mr. Lewis responded that the vendor management program consists
of the four processes and the company met the standards.
Commissioner Thomas asked for assurance of BWL data privacy in the cybersecurity process in the proposed
program. Mr. Lewis responded that audits of cyber security process and IT vulnerability are in place to be
conducted. Commissioner Thomas also asked why references to the General Manager was being removed
from the internal audit charter. Mr. Lewis responded that it is to clarify the reporting structure which is
indicated in the IAA standards but not to change the interaction between internal audit, the General Manager
and the management team.
Commissioner Price commented that a review of governance policies was performed and that the General
Manager title was found to be inserted in places where fiduciary responsibility and authority didn't apply.
Commissioner Price inquired whether the information under the Organization section was necessary in the
charter as it appeared to be a job description and the charter should describe function. Mr. Lewis responded
that it was provided for more clarity. Commissioner Lenz commented that qualifications for a BWL auditor
should be included in order that audit requirements are safeguarded against any nefarious hiring.
Commissioner Ross asked whether the auditing method was considered continuous auditing. Mr. Lewis
responded that there is continuous access to information but not 24/7 auditing of the information.
Commissioner Zerkle asked what the obligation of the audit was to the BWL if the audit program finds an error
or discrepancy in the information. Mr. Lewis responded that free audit access to data information would be
granted continuously rather than in a case by case scenario. Commissioner Ross commented that there is a
need for proper input and advance approval by the Board including prioritization of audit areas, regular
reporting updates, and reporting on any findings. and that the reporting of findings is incorporated into the
risk rating in the c.
A discussion followed regarding extra verbiage in the charter being unnecessary. Commissioner Graham
commented that total transparency is necessary and didn't have a problem with the extra verbiage.
Commissioner Lenz suggested having General Counsel Mark Matus review the language.
Commissioner Mullen asked that if the current process is working what makes the new program better for the
BWL. Mr. Lewis responded that maintaining compliance and standards, removing the risk that information
could be filtered and having an artificial intelligence component is the reason for the new program even
though the current program is effective.
Commissioner Jester asked whether proactive auditing could be pursuant to board approved audit topics. Mr.
Lewis responded that the new program is to make allowances for unexpected events or changes that may
arise. Commissioner Jester asked why three or four topics couldn't be placed in the audit plan. Mr. Lewis
responded that some proactive audits are already be conducted — analysis of SAP vendor payments
information and a retiree and terminated employees comparison to the active directory.
Commissioner Merrill commented that the term proactive is being defined as something new and different
and suggested for clarity, that since every audit conducted should be proactive, changing the terminology to
ad hoc. Mr. Lewis responded that proactive audits are required in the standards and there will be ad hoc audit
requests.
Commissioner Ross proposed continuing the discussion at the next Finance Meeting and there was an
agreeable consensus.
CFO Shawa made a clarification that the access requested is global access to production systems through SAP.
When data is requested from IT, the business owner is asked to sign off the request and then a regular IT
procedure is followed. CFO Shawa stated that a process on proactive auditing was researched in order to
ensure that the process could be maintained and supported by senior leadership and internal control. CFO
Shawa wanted the Commissioners to understand that although the data is encrypted when sent out and when
returned, it is on an offline server while it is at the third party and there are physical data breach
opportunities. Additional security will be required with the offline server when all data is serviced in this
manner.
Commissioner Zerkle asked whether there were concerns regarding customer or employee information. CFO
Shawa responded that employee sensitive data or HIPAA data would need to be approved.
Commissioner Thomas asked whether negotiating is necessary with the bargaining unit regarding the audit
changes. CFO Shawa responded that transparency is expected and that she wanted management to
understand what the program and process of the proactive auditing would be like.
General Manager Peffley stated that he wants to see the Internal Audit Charter succeed and has no problem
with 24/7 monitoring but would like the monitoring to be transparent and not secretive. GM Peffley
commented that there was some concern among employees regarding the employee information that would
be audited and the shoulders of employees being looked over, and that transparency in the audit requests is
necessary. Commissioner Ross asked whether the audit risk basis, the approval process, the structure for
reporting, and the opportunity for management feedback would be the same as current audits. GM Peffley
responded that the process would be the same but the main concern of management was the looking over of
their shoulders. Commissioner Ross also asked whether there was assurance that there would be definitive
answers to data requests and the internal audit process. Commissioner Ross asked if a grid or visual could be
developed that identified any management issues with the proactive audit proposal or the vendor so that the
finance committee would know what needed to be addressed. GM Peffley responded that could be done and
that an internal order would log every request to determine the amount of staffing that would be required for
the demand.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen to Table the Internal Audit Charter
Resolution, delaying the vote and allowing for further discussion at a future Finance Committee Meeting.
Motion Carried
Other
None.
Adjourn
Commissioner Ross adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
Ken Ross, Chair
Finance Committee
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
July 27, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Human Resources Committee
Meeting of the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in Lansing,
MI, at 5:00 p.m. on Monday,July 27, 2020.
Chairperson Tracy Thomas called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Corporate Secretary Denise Griffin called the roll.
Present: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Deshon Leek, Tony Mullen (arrived @5:04 p.m.), and Sandra Zerkle.
Also present, Commissioners David Lenz, David Price (arrived @5:05p.m.), Ken Ross and Non-Voting
Commissioner Larry Merrill (arrived@5:05 p.m.)
Absent: None
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
MEETING PURPOSE:
Closed Session (Attorney—Client Memorandum)....MCL 15.268 (h) & MCL 15.243 (g).
Personnel Issue.
Chair Thomas stated that BWL General Counsel Mark Matus has provided the Human Resources Committee
with an Attorney Client Privilege memorandum and he is present and available to discuss the contents of that
memorandum with us.
Motion by Commissioner Zerkle, Seconded by Commissioner Leek to go into closed session for the purpose
of reviewing the contents of the attorney-client privileged memorandum as permitted by the Open Meetings
Act, specifically MCL 15.268(h) and MCL 15.243(g).
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Deshon Leek, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Special Human Resources Committee Meeting went into closed session at 5:04 p.m.
Motion by Commissioner Leek, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to return to open session.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Deshon Leek, and Tony Mullen.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
The Special Human Resources Committee Meeting reconvened to open session at 6:03 p.m.
COMMISSIONERS' REMARKS/COMMENTS
None
EXCUSED ABSENCE
Motion by Commissioner Leek, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to excuse Commissioner Beth Graham
from tonight's meeting.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Deshon Leek, and Tony Mullen.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Commissioner Leek, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to adjourn tonight's meeting.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Deshon Leek, and Tony Mullen.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried
Chair Thomas adjourned the meeting at 6:04 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Tracy Thomas, Chair
Human Resources Committee
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS
None.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no Unfinished Business.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no New Business.
RESOLUTIONS/ACTION ITEMS
RESOLUTION #2020-07-01
MOU Extending 2016—2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Lansing Board of
Water& Light and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, AFL-CIO, Local 352
WHEREAS, on October 31, 2016 the Lansing Board of Water & Light and the International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers, AFL-CIO, Local 352, the "Parties," executed a Collective Bargaining Agreement effective
November 1, 2016 through October 31, 2020, the "2016-2020 Labor Agreement."
WHEREAS, having considered the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic the Parties have
agreed to extend, with two amendments, all provisions of the 2016-2020 Labor Agreement until midnight
October 31, 2021;
RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners approve the 2020 Labor Agreement MOU extending the 2016-
2020 Labor Agreement effective November 1, 2020 through October 31, 2021 and authorize the General
Manager to execute same.
Motion by Commissioner Mullen, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas, to approve the 2020 Labor Agreement
MOU extending the 2016-2020 Labor Agreement effective November 1, 2020 through October 31, 2021, and
authorize the General Manager to execute same.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, David Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra
Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION #2020-07-02
Appointment of the Charter Position of Corporate Secretary
The Board's Rules of Administrative Procedures specify that the Board is to appoint a Director and General
Manager, Internal Auditor, and Corporate Secretary, at its first regular meeting following July 1st of each year
or as soon as practicable thereafter.
RESOLVED,That the Board of Commissioners hereby appoints the following individual to the Charter position
of Corporate Secretary fiscal year 2020-2021 or until a successor is appointed, whichever last occurs:
M. Denise Griffin, Corporate Secretary
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Chair of the Board of Commissioners is authorized to execute any and all
contractual amendment documents which reflect merit adjustments recommended by the Human Resources
Committee for FY 2020's performance.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Zerkle, to approve the reappointment of the
Corporate Secretary for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, David Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra
Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION #2020-07-03
Appointment of the Charter Position of Director and General Manager
The Board's Rules of Administrative Procedures specify that the Board is to appoint a Director and General
Manager, Internal Auditor, and Corporate Secretary, at its first regular meeting following July 1st of each year
or as soon as practicable thereafter.
RESOLVED, That the Board of Commissioners hereby appoints the following individual to the Charter position
of Director and General Manager for fiscal year 2020-2021 or until a successor is appointed, whichever last
occurs:
Richard R. Peff ley, Director and General Manager
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Chair of the Board of Commissioners is authorized to execute any and all
contractual amendment documents which reflect merit adjustments recommended by the Human Resources
Committee for FY 2020's performance.
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to approve the reappointment of the
Director and General Manager for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, David Price, Ken Ross, Tracy Thomas, and Sandra
Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION #2020-07-04
Appointment of the Charter Position of Internal Auditor
The Board's Rules of Administrative Procedures specify that the Board is to appoint a Director and General
Manager, Internal Auditor, and Corporate Secretary, at its first regular meeting following July 1st of each year
or as soon as practicable thereafter.
RESOLVED, That the Board of Commissioners hereby appoints the following individual to the Charter position
of Internal Auditor for fiscal year 2020-2021 or until a successor is appointed, whichever last occurs.
Wesley Lewis, Internal Auditor
FURTHER RESOLVED,That the Chair of the Board of Commissioners is authorized to execute any and all
contractual amendment documents which reflect merit adjustments recommended by the Human Resources
Committee for FY 2020's performance.
Motion by Commissioner Lenz, Seconded by Commissioner Leek, to approve the reappointment of the
Internal Auditor for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Deshon Leek, David Lenz, David Price, Ken Ross,Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: Commissioner Tony Mullen
Action: Motion Carried.
MANAGER'S REMARKS
General Manager Peffley presented the following information:
1. The State of BWL address was recorded Tuesday,July 28, 2020 and will be available for viewing on
Wednesday,July 29, 2020.
2. The BWL can now communicate with customers in 250 languages through the call center.
3. BWL reached out to employees to contribute to Pennies for Power and more than $10,000 was collected.
BWL employee, Chris Maclennan, collected more than $800 in cans and contributions of cans and donated the
amount to Pennies for Power.
COMMISSIONERS' REMARKS
Commissioner Thomas commended the HR Committee on the preparation for the reappointment of the three
employees.
Commissioner Ross expressed his wish for a detailed presentation of the IRP in a future meeting and that it is
important to discuss, ask questions and make suggestions on what the strategic plan should be. Chair Price
stated he agreed even though the Board doesn't act on the IRP.
Commissioner Zerkle thanked GM Peffley and the staff for the Pennies for Power donation as she has heard
commendations from the community.
MOTION OF EXCUSED ABSENCE
Motion by Commissioner Thomas, Seconded by Commissioner Ross to excuse Commissioner Beth Graham
from tonight's meeting.
Action: Motion Carried.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Price adjourned the meeting at 6:06 p.m.
M. Denise Griffin,Corporate Secretary
Preliminary Minutes filed(electronically)with Lansing City Clerk: 8-7-2020
Official Minutes filed(electronically)with Lansing City Clerk 9-23-20
Approved by the Board of Commissioners 11-17-20
Hometown People.Hometown Power:
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
September 22, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Regular Board of
Commissioners meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via
WebEx Conferencing in Lansing, MI on Tuesday, September 22, 2020. This meeting was publicly
noticed for 5:30 p.m.
Chairperson David Price called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
The Corporate Secretary, M. Denise Griffin, called the roll.
Present: Commissioners David Price, Beth Graham (arrived@ 5:36 p.m.), David Lenz, Tony
Mullen, Ken Ross,Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle. Non-Voting Commissioners present: Stuart
Goodrich (Delhi Township) (arrived@ 4:41 p.m.), Douglas Jester (East Lansing), and Larry Merrill
(Delta Township)
Absent: Commissioner Deshon Leek
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Chairperson Price welcomed Commissioner Stuart Goodrich representing Delhi Township.
Chairperson Price led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by Commissioner Lenz, Seconded by Commissioner Thomas, to approve the Regular
Board Meeting minutes of July 28, 2020.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners David Price, Beth Graham, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, Ken Ross, Tracy
Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
COMMUNICATIONS
Electronic Mail received From Michael Braem regarding utility rates-Referred to Management.
Received and Placed on File
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Commissioner Tracy Thomas presented the Committee of the Whole Report:
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Meeting Minutes
September 08, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Committee of the Whole
meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing in
Lansing, MI,on Tuesday, September 8, 2020.
Committee of the Whole Chair Tracy Thomas called the meeting to order at 5:39 p.m.
Corporate Secretary Griffin took the roll call to acknowledge attendance.
Present: Commissioners Tracy Thomas, Beth Graham (arrived @5:40 p.m.), David Lenz, Deshon Leek,
Anthony Mullen,David Price,Ken Ross,and Sandra Zerkle,and Non-Voting Members: Douglas Jester(East
Lansing) and Larry Merrill (Delta Township)
Absent: None.
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Public Comments
None.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to approve the Committee of the
Whole meeting minutes of June 30, 2020.
A roll call vote was taken: Commissioners Thomas, Graham, Leek, Lenz, Mullen, Price, Ross,Zerkle
Action: Motion Carried.
Annual Energy Waste Reduction (EWR) Program Update
General Manager Dick Peffley introduced Environmental Services and Reliability Compliance Manager,
Ms. Lori Myott, who presented the annual energy waste reduction (EWR) program update. Ms. Myott
introduced Ms. Aileen Gow, Energy Analyst,and Mr. Patrick Walters, Energy Specialist.
Peneviabte Energy
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Commissioner Ross asked whether the consumers are educated about the solar panel energy program
before making the purchase as a customer complained that there wasn't a significant reduction in energy
cost. GM Peffley responded that the contractors don't interact with the utility until the solar panel
contract is signed by the customer. The customer requests a permit from BWL but that is after the
purchase. At energy events BWL encourages prospective solar customers to contact the BWL first.
Commissioner Thomas asked about the results for the schools in the energy program and asked why Holt
and Waverly schools weren't in the Million kWh Club. Ms. Myott responded that it depends on whether
the school's projects meet the kWh amount. Ms. Gow responded that Holt School is under Consumers
Power.
Commissioner Price asked for an explanation of how BWL works with Michigan Saves and what types of
improvements are eligible. Ms. Myott responded that loans are purchased for renovation so that the
customer has 0% interest for a four-year period. Michigan Saves promotes the program and works with
financial institutions to help finance the projects. Ms. Gow responded that windows, furnaces, air
conditioners, and building shell improvements are eligible. Consumers Energy contributes 60/40 with
BWL. Ms. Gow also noted that the program may be phasing out as Consumers Energy will no longer be
contributing to it.
Commissioner Graham asked whether new buildings being built were notified about energy reduction
programs. Ms.Gow responded that anyone doing a new build is encouraged to contact BWL's commercial
to make sure that what is being installed is the most efficient. Mr. Walters responded that there is a new
construction program for commercial buildings.
Commissioner Zerkle asked whether Central Methodist Church received one of the grants and, if more
difficulty occurs when obtaining contracts, what plans are in place to overcome the issues. Ms. Myott
responded that the church received one of the grants and that a five-year plan is being constructed as the
next couple of years are expected to be challenging.
Commissioner Lenz asked how non-profit grant recipients were selected. Ms. Gow responded that
applicants need to be 501c3 organizations and the first applicants that qualify according to the guidelines
are selected. There is a $5,000 cap on the grant.
Commissioner Ross asked whether a portfolio of 222 MW of renewables by 2022 was correct. Ms. Myott
confirmed. Commissioner Ross asked what amount of credit would be taken for the renewables. Ms.
Myott responded that solar is 60% credit and wind is low and about 20% credit. GM Peffley responded
that initially Pegasus wasn't going to be commissioned, so BWL switched to Ranger Solar. Pegasus was
then negotiated for a lower cost and both Ranger Solar and Pegasus were kept. Pegasus started running
September 10, 2020 and Ranger is ahead of schedule. GM Peffley will send the exact values to the
Commissioners.
Commissioner Lenz asked where the BWL stands on the app project that monitors energy usage and when
BWL would be rolling out the program to the customers. Ms. Myott responded that she would follow up
as there isn't a specific date set yet for the app capability and it is part of the AMI program.
BSmart Program Update
Corporate Secretary M. Denise Griffin, on behalf of GM Peffley, introduced Enterprise Business Program
Manager, Kellee Christensen, who provided information on the BSmart Program. Ms. Christensen
highlighted the Advance Metering Infrastructure (AM]), Advanced Distribution Management System
(ADMS), Geographical Information System (GIS), Customer Information System (CIS), and Enterprise
Service Bus (ESB).
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and solar online at close of business next year. The daily average load of energy is 265 MW.
Other
There was no other business.
Adiourn
Commissioner Thomas adjourned the meeting at 6:41 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Tracy Thomas, Chair
Committee of the Whole
Commissioner David Lenz presented the Finance Committee Report:
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2020
Due to public safety concerns resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Finance Committee
meeting for the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) was conducted via WebEx Conferencing
in Lansing, MI.
Finance Committee Chair David Lenz, called the September 8, 2020, 6:00 P.M. Finance
Committee meeting to order at 6:51 p.m.
Corporate Secretary Griffin took the roll call to acknowledge attendance.
Present: Commissioners David Lenz, Beth Graham, David Price, and Ken Ross. Also, present:
Commissioners Deshon Leek,Tracy Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle; and Non-Voting Commissioners
Douglas Jester(East Lansing) and Larry Merrill (Delta Township).
Absent: None.
The Corporate Secretary declared a quorum.
Public Comments
None.
Approval of Minutes
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Ross, to approve the Finance
Committee meeting minutes of July 21, 2020.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Lenz, Graham, Price, and Ross
Nays: None
Tabled Items from July 21, 2020: REMAINED ON THE TABLE
1) Proposed Internal Audit Charter, 2) Redlined Internal Audit Charter, 3) Resolution
Baker Tilly External Audit Report and Resolution
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Heather Shawa introduced external auditor Jodi Dobson, Partner at
Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP. Ms. Dobson presented and highlighted the external audit report
which included an audit overview, observations and recommendations, and required
communications to the governing body. BWL received an unmodified or clean opinion which is
the highest level of assurance provided.
Ms. Dobson's presentation was as follows:
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Commissioner Ross inquired whether Ms. Dobson would be continuing with the external audits
with Baker Tilly for BWL. He also asked for additional detail regarding the upcoming fiduciary
responsibility changes and how it will affect BWL pension plans. Ms. Dobson responded that
there are 40 individuals that work with municipal utilities and rotation among their staff is an
option. Ms Dobson also responded that there isn't a significant affect on BWL's financial
statements as the pension plans are already incorporated into them.
Commissioner Lenz noted the diverging of income increasingly relying on electric generation,
that at some point steam and water would have a zero impact for net income and would cost
money to operate, and the role of steam and water is something that needs to be discussed for
the strategic plan.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Ross to forward to the Board
Meeting for consideration the Acceptance of the Resolution for the 2020 Audited Financial
Statements.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Lenz, Graham, Price, and Ross
Nays: None
July YTD Financial Summary
CFO Heather Shawa gave a review of the July 2020 Financial Summary. Ms. Shawa reported the
following: revenue was $34.6 million compared to budget of$33.1 million; operating expenses
were $21.6 million compared to budget of $25.7 million; and Net Income was positive at $9.3
million compared to budget of$3.5 million.
Commissioner Lenz commented that BWL is doing an outstanding job of maintaining revenues as
the audited financial statements and July financial summary includes the shutdown of General
Motors and COVIDI9.
Capital Project Exceedance (CPE) Revision
CFO Ms. Shawa presented the Capital Project Exceedance Revision.
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Chair Lenz commented that the resolution is going to change the benchmark point of when
projects are monitored, allow the projection of more accurate project budgets, and provide
tighter control on project costs.
Commissioner Zerkle questioned when the Capital Project Exceedance (CPE) Budget is brought
to the Board. She also asked when is staff asked for the ideas for that particular Budget. CFO
Shawa responded that the staff is asked for ideas in November and the CPE Budget is presented
to the Board in May. Currently a project is brought forward as an exceedance based on the
project intake phase. General Manager Peffley responded that during the early phases there
may be an overestimate of costs and then the amount requested and received is spent. The
resolution will narrow down the project amount requested to ensure capital funds are available
for all of the necessary utility priorities.
Commissioner Ross commented on the inefficiencies in the CPE budget process. Previously there
were transparencies in the budget process of the top 80%of the projects by dollar volume which
hasn't carried through this year. Commissioner Ross added that in the amendment of the
exceedance approval there are some key terms that are not defined. General Manager Peffley
responded that transparency and tracking in the top 80%of the projects can be reinstated at the
Chair's request at a Finance Committee meeting. CFO Shawa responded that she can have the
capital project information of line items by project sent out to the Finance committee. CFO
Shawa also responded that there are guidelines within an operational capitalization policy which
defines annual and planned projects and can be sent to the committee.
Commissioner Zerkle asked about the procedure included in the resolution regarding the General
Manager revising the procedure. Chair Lenz stated the resolution states that the General
Manager will report excessive exceedances. Commissioner Ross commented that there should
be definitions added and recognition of additional reporting; and the Board should not manage
the projects but should be given the necessary tools for effective oversight,and for those reasons
he will be voting no.
Motion by Commissioner Price, Seconded by Commissioner Graham to forward the Capital
Project Exceedance Revision Resolution to the full Board for consideration.
Motion Carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Lenz, Graham, and Price
Nays: Commissioner Ross
Internal Audit Status Report
Internal Auditor, Mr. Wesley Lewis, presented the Internal Auditor Status Report.
Overview
Status Report
� •�� Status Report FY 2020 Audit Enoage—t In P,oarns:
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Internal Audit Status Report
FY 2021 Autlll Enn Solvents(aeuinnintl 9lauesl:
1.kIPPA and Ml90 alliings
Pr-crated by: 2.IT-Cyb.r.—fty Proce:6
Wesley Lewis,Director of Internal Audit 0.rr-Vuln.rablllty A.....m.nts
Finance Committee Meeting A.PGmds
September B.2020 }mow
Other Items
1.Intamai AW,OtIV—h With Omer B'WL
Depanmenls
2.Update on Ongoing Education and Csni0cation of IA
SUT
Other
There was no other business.
Adjourn
Chair David Lenz adjourned the meeting at 8:08 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
David Lenz, Chair
Finance Committee
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS
GM Peffley recommended that management should bring a semi-annual update to the Finance
Committee Meeting on the state of the capital projects, with the Chair's permission and as in
depth as the Chair prefers at the time.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION 2020-09-01
Fiscal Year 2020 Audited Financial Statements of the Enterprise Fund
and Pension Fiduciary Funds
RESOLVED, that the fiscal year 2020 Audited Financial Statements of the Board of Water and
Light have been reviewed and are hereby accepted as presented.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Corporate Secretary is hereby directed to file a copy of the
fiscal year 2020 Audited Financial Statements of the Board of Water and Light and the
report on auditing procedures with the State Treasurer as required by the Uniform
Budgeting and Accounting Act (Public Act 2 of 1968, as amended) no later than December
31, 2020.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Corporate Secretary is hereby directed to file a copy of the
fiscal year 2020 Audited Financial Statements of the Board of Water and Light with the City
of Lansing no later than October 2020.
Motion by Commissioner Lenz, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to accept the 2020
audited financial statements.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners David Price, Beth Graham, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, Ken Ross, Tracy
Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
RESOLUTION 2020-09-02
Capital Project Exceedance Approval Revision
RESOLVED, that Board of Water and Light Policy 15-02 "Capital Project Exceedance Approval" is
hereby amended as follows:
RESOLVED, that any approved capital project that is expected to exceed its total budget amount
by both 15% and $200,000 or more must have the exceedance approved by the Commissioners
prior to completion of the project; and
RESOLVED, that in the case of"planned" capital projects the total budget amount is the
project's designed budget amount; and
RESOLVED, the General Manager shall report the expected exceedance to the Commissioners
as soon as reasonably possible; and
RESOLVED, this policy applies to the aggregate total budget amounts for electric, water, steam,
and chilled water"annual" capital projects and to the individual total designed budget amounts
for "planned" capital projects; and
RESOLVED, the General Manager shall establish and implement procedures overseeing capital
project costs consistent with this policy.
This resolution supersedes Resolutions 200-3-2, 2001-6-16 and 2015-07-05.
Staff comments:
In the existing Policy, a project's Total Budget Amount can be based on the initiation (Intake)
phase of a project. This amount is usually based on historical or industry estimates of similar
projects and does not capture issues that can significantly affect the cost of a project.
When the capital budget/forecast is developed, a project's cost that is shown in the budget
reflects the quality of information know at that time. For any project, it would reflect where the
project is in its lifecycle: Initiation (Intake), Feasibility, Design, Construction/Commissioning, or
Close-out stage.
It is recognized by the Project Management Profession that projects in the Initiation (Intake)
phase can have a margin of error that can range from 50%to 200%of the actual completion cost.
As a project matures through the design phase, the margin of error reduces to 5 to 15%.
The recommendation to use the design cost as the basis for reporting a project's exceedances
aligns with the existing BWL policy of reporting an exceedance when a planned project's expected
completion cost is in excess of 15%and $200,000 of the designed cost
Motion by Commissioner Lenz, Seconded by Commissioner Mullen, to accept the Resolution
for the Capital Project Exceedance Approval Revision.
Commissioner Ross stated that he would be voting no due to three concerns. The first two
concerns are dealt with in the recommendation GM Peffley mentioned earlier, management
bringing forward a periodic report and Commissioner Ross is hoping it includes transparency
and the budget process -clear indications of what items are being approved, when and in what
amount. The third concern is that definitions of planned capital projects and annual capital
projects need to be included in the policy so that if the definition is changed the policy will need
to be changed.
Commissioner Zerkle asked whether the procedures would be presented in a Finance Committee
meeting by the end of the year opposed to waiting until March as was discussed in a previous
meeting. GM Peffley responded that was still the plan.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners David Price, Beth Graham, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, Tracy Thomas, and
Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: Commissioner Ross
Action: Motion Carried.
MANAGER'S REMARKS
General Manager Dick Peffley provided information on the following items:
1. There are signs placed throughout the city thanking BWL employees and additional signs are
available for delivery to those who would like to set one outside.
2. A notification was on social media of emergency steam work being conducted on South Street.
It wasn't an emergency problem but that is the name of the REO backup system steam work
project as the Eckert plant is closing.
COMMISSIONERS' REMARKS
Commissioner Ross stated that a member of the public spoke at the recent City Council meeting
regarding a sign that was to be placed at the Sunken Garden. Commissioner Ross asked whether
BWL committed to place a sign. GM Peffley responded that he would look into whether the
commitment was made.
Commissioner Ross stated that in a recent meeting there was a presentation on renewable
energy and it was said that about 225 MW's worth of renewable power would be on line by 2021.
Commissioner Ross stated that at the time of the meeting, the number for the credit value was
not provided and Mr. Peffley indicated that he would follow up with the numbers, but Denise
built into the minutes a 60%solar credit value and a 20%wind credit value. Commissioner Ross
asked what sub-credit would be able to be taken with the creditable amount for wind being 60%
and solar power 20%. GM Peffley responded that he would calculate the mix and send it out by
the end of the week.
Commissioner Ross requested that the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process and Strategic Plan
process be placed on a future agenda for discussion, examination and for the asking of questions
in order to have an effective strategic planning session. Commissioner Ross would also like
questions and answers to the process to be posted. With this information the Commissioners
will be better equipped to fulfill their role. Commissioner Price responded that a meeting has
been scheduled at the end of October with Commissioner Thomas for a discussion on the
Strategic Plan, of which the IRP is a part.
Commissioner Mullen asked what wasn't being addressed. Commissioner Ross stated that the
managements' 60-page IRP was just received, into which several pages of documents of studies,
reports, surveys and community engagement summaries feed, and none of this information has
been reviewed or discussed regarding what will happen with the IRP. Commissioner Mullen
responded that he has received discussion and answers from Ms. Ekren.
Chair Price stated that the IRP will be on the agenda at the next Committee of the Whole meeting
and questions can be asked with discussion following.
Commissioner Zerkle commented that a presentation was given on the IRP a couple months
ago. She added that BWL's first responders include the executive staff and they should be
included in those to get the vaccines first as soon as it is offered.
Commissioner Thomas commented that there was a presentation given on the IRP and also
agreed with Chair Price for scheduling additional discussion at the next Committee of the Whole
meeting. Commissioner Thomas noted that what has been previously discussed is on the
Commissioner dashboard. Commissioner Thomas also thanked GM Peffley and his staff for
providing opportunities to tour the Delta Energy Plant.
Chair Price congratulated Executive Director Steve Serkaian for being elected as President of
the Greater Lansing Arts Council.
MOTION OF EXCUSED ABSENCE
Motion by Commissioner Ross, Seconded by Commissioner Graham, to excuse Commissioner
Deshon Leek from tonight's meeting.
Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners David Price, Beth Graham, David Lenz, Tony Mullen, Ken Ross, Tracy
Thomas, and Sandra Zerkle.
Nays: None.
Action: Motion Carried.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mr. Randy Dykhuus expressed his agreement with Commissioner Ross regarding attention given
to and examination of the IRP and requested consideration for ample public input.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Price adjourned the meeting at 6:12 p.m.
M.Denise Griffin,Corporate Secretary
Preliminary Minutes filed(electronically)with Lansing City Clerk 9-25-20
Approved by the Board of Commissioners:11-17-20
Official Minutes filed(electronically)with Lansing City Clerk:11-18-20