Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

June 13, 2024

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, John Colvard, Erin Colwell (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruickshank (via phone)

Guests Present: Barbara Harris

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:30

Commissioner Colwell moved to accept the May 09, 2024 minutes as written, Commissioner Colvard moved to second, motion passed.

Administrative

Approve: O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of March 31, 2024, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $45,855.58 in the general operating fund and $160,547.50 in the reserve fund. The Imprest balance is $1000.00.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $4047.47. Commissioner Colvard seconded; motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,461.00, Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Customer Status Report

Clerk Harris will read meters on June 25, 2024.

Clerk Harris reported that there is new EPA oversight for larger municipal water systems (3300 connections or more) for updated reporting and protocol for internet security concerns. Commissioners discussed our procedures and processes. If a security concern occurs, the computer system will be shut down and managed manually.

Craig Carney, no new information on the MOU for a main extension.

Ryan Barr, no new information on meter installation.

D&D Realty, Commissioner Colvard reported on his discussions with the DOH and with Attorney Marc Marquis regarding ADU’s (additional dwelling units). ADU’s that are a part of the residence will use the same single water connection. The Water Availability Request form will be reviewed by the commissioners to determine if the form or supporting district Operation/Directive needs to be more specific regarding ADU’s.

Michael Lesky requested a Water Availability Certificate for new construction. He already has water service and a meter.

The Lake Wenatchee Water District Consumer Confidence Report for 2023 has been loaded on the LWWD website and distributed to those customers without email addresses.

Operations

Commissioner Colwell reported on her research on grants that might be available.

Clerk Harris reported that he placed a legal ad in the Leavenworth Echo and Cashmere paper requesting applications for the Small Works Roster.

Operator Cruickshank reported that the leak on Fir Drive will be repaired on Friday, June 14, 2024. It was waiting for utility locator markings before excavation. The leak appears to be on the district side of the meter.

Operator Cruickshank was asked by the commissioners to expedite the repair of the leak of the isolation gate valve. The repair also involves work at the reservoir.

Operator Cruickshank ordered 6 vaults and 4 have arrived. He reports that he has enough for current needs.

Operator Cruickshank does not have any information yet from Tumwater Drilling regarding the cost and feasibility of re-energizing the three district wells.

New Water Source

Commissioners discussed future needs of the water system. This will be addressed in the upcoming 2026/2032 update to the six-year water district Comprehensive Plan by RH2 Engineering.

Clerk Harris was asked to research the current Comp Plan for information regarding water rights and current capacity for the next commissioner meeting.

Adjourn at 10:50am

Next meeting – Thursday, July 11, 2024

9:30-11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

May 09, 2024

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, Erin Colwell, John Colvard via phone (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruikshank-Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:30 am

Commissioner Guimond moved to accept the April 11, 2024 minutes as written, Commissioner Colwell seconded; motion passed.

Administrative

O&M and Payroll Warrants

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $9,501.61, Commissioner Colwell seconded; motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,660.00, Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed.

Monthly financial reports: As of April 30, 2024, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $43,495.14 in the general operating fund and $161,267.50 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $973.90.

Customer aging status as of May 07, 2024 was:

60 days-16 customers @ 60 days ($1,390.00)

90 days-0 customers @ 90 days ($0)

Commissioners reviewed the bids for the Lake Wenatchee Highway water main extension to service lot 4 of the Craig Carney short plat. Commissioner Colwell motioned to authorize Commissioner Guimond to sign the memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the district, Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed. The contract was awarded to Dickinson Plowing and Excavation for $4,638.06. Construction is to begin after receiving the signed MOU from Craig Carney and 50% deposit of $2,320.00. Construction to be completed by July 31, 2024. Clerk Harris will contact the bidders and Craig Carney.

Customer Status Report

Clerk Harris read meters on April 25, 2024. This will be the baseline for the start of the upcoming summer billing cycle.

Leaks were reported for customers, #1076, #1099, #1137 and #1086.

Operations

The generator closeout inspection was completed and approved by the Washington Emergency Management Division (WAEMD) on April 17, 2024.

Clerk Harris completed this year’s WSRMP survey request for updated information on the district to calculate the member insurer’s 2024-2025 premium. When the evaluation of the member’s financials in the insurance pool is complete, the annual renewal rate will be invoiced to LWWD in the fall.

Notification of a 2024 Drought declaration for all of Washington State was announced on April 16, 2024. When the normal available water storage potential drops below 75%, a declaration is made. There are grants available to mitigate the impact of the draught at the local level and Commissioner Colwell will contact Washington State Dept of Health for more information regarding the grants. Clerk Harris will compose and send out water conservation letters to remind the customers of the ongoing situation.

In addition, it was suggested that LWWD consider rehabilitating some or all its source wells. Commissioner Colwell motioned for Charlie Cruikshank to contact Tumwater Drilling to get an estimate of the cost and feasibility of rehabilitating the 3 LWWD wells to improve the flow, Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed.

Adjourn at 11:30

Next meeting – Thursday, June 13, 2024

9:30-11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

April 11, 2024

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, John Colvard (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruikshank-Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris, Craig Carney

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:30

Commissioner Guimond moved to accept the Mar 14, 2024 minutes as written, Commissioner Colvard moved to second, motion passed.

Administrative

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $9,069.09. Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,647.00, Commissioner Guimond seconded, motion passed.

Customer Status Report

Clerk Harris will read meters on April 25, 2024. This will be the baseline for the start of the upcoming summer billing cycle.

Clerk Harris reported that the LWWD website is up and running and has been brought up to date with minutes, agendas, resolutions and the 2024 budget. He will notify customers that it’s now available for viewing.

Craig Carney presented 3 Applications for New Water Service and payment for the 3 short plat connections. Clerk Harris will request bids from 3 vendors on the small works roster and will compose a Memorandum of Understanding for lot #4 that will require a mainline extension in the county road easement. The MOU will specify a deposit of 50% of the accepted bid.

Operator Cruikshank reported that the vault for the new Robert Turner parcel (271718430150) had been damaged over the 2023/2024 winter season and has been replaced with a new vault.

Commissioner Colvard reported on his discussions with the county regarding the ADU application for the D&D Realty parcel. He will contact Attorney Marc Marquis for his advice.

Clerk Harris will email the owner of Mt. Park parcel 271614700055 about his timetable for connecting to the system. If the installation is to be delayed further, the new vault located on his property will be picked up to be used on other customer installs due to limited supply. The owner can request a replacement vault when he is ready to complete the installation.

Operations

Operator Cruikshank reported on LWW repairs, a leak repair in the Brown Road pumphouse and a broken cable indicator in the LWW reservoir.

Commissioner Colvard reported on discussions regarding water rights and new water sources. He will ask Attorney Marc Marquis about LWWD water rights.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to purchase 5 single vaults and 2 double vaults. Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard requested that Operator Cruikshank notify him whenever damage is done to a vault.

Discussion about Carson property. Still waiting for the letter from Dickinson family regarding definition of ownership of this property as it relates to the transfer agreement terms.

Adjourn at 11:05 AM

Next meeting – Thursday, May 9, 2024  9:30-11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

March 14, 2024

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, John Colvard, Erin Colwell (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruikshank-Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris, Stevan Fredrickson, Barbara Dickinson, Lisa Morris, John Morris

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:30

Commissioner Colwell moved to accept the February 02, 2024 and Feb 08, 2024 minutes as written, Commissioner Colvard moved to second, motion passed.

Administrative

Approve: O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of February 29, 2024, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $44,012.50 in the general operating fund and $116,267.50 in the reserve fund. The Imprest balance is $399.50.

Customer aging status as of March 11, 2024 was:

60 days – 0 customers @ 60 days ($00)

90 days – 3 customers @ 90 days ($362.94)

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $5,416.68 Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,468.00, Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Customer Status Report

Clerk Harris reported leak updates as of 03-05-2024. Customers were notified.

No new meter installations.

Discussion with Barbara Dickinson and Stevan Fredrickson regarding water availability for Dickinson properties. Commissioner Colvard will contact our lawyer regarding one of the current connections in question.

Discussion with Morrises regarding ADU permit on neighboring property. Commissioner Colvard will contact Chelan County regarding the ADU permit. A letter to all LWWD customers needs to be sent reminding them of the current LWWD policy for ADU’s.

Operations

Operator Cruikshank reported on Homestead Well computer replacement and LWW repairs.

Clerk Harris reported that final inspection of the new generator has been postponed by Chelan County until April 2024.

Adjourn at 10:39

Next meeting – Thursday, April 11, 2024

9:30-11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

Feb 08, 2024

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, John Colvard (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruikshank-Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris, Jeff Burgess, Bill Burgess, Karen Dickinson

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:30am

Commissioner Colvard moved to accept the January 11, 2024 and Feb 02, 2024 minutes as written, Commissioner Guimond moved to second, motion passed.

Administrative

Approve: O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of January 31, 2024, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $44,880.09 in the general operating fund and $116,267.50 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $617.08.

Customer aging status as of February 1, 2024 was:

60 days – 0 customers @ 60 days ($00)

90 days – 6 customers @ 90 days ($562.94)

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $6087.97 Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1887.00, Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve Resolution 2024-02-08A for Commissioner per diem compensation; Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Guimond motioned to accept attorney Marc Marquis’ legal review of senior water rights for well# BAP295, ID543071, parcel 27271340055; Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Customer Status Report

Clerk Harris reported leak updates as of 01-23-2024 and 02-02-2025. Customers were notified and the leaks identified were either repaired or the meter temporarily shut off for the rest of winter until the service line under the snow could be accessed.

No new meter installations.

Water Availability Certificates (WAC)

The commissioners reviewed the details of the proposed short plats by Karen Dickinson, which could include an implied LWWD mainline extension that would be required to maintain proper water pressure for all properties involved. The water availability certificates were approved and would result in 6 new connections when complete.

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve the two new Water Availability Certificates for K Dickinson, etal. on parcel 271718925191 and 271718310254. Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Operations

Operator Cruikshank reported the leak at the Lake Wenatchee pump house has been temporarily repaired and he is waiting for parts to complete the repair of the gate valve.

Commissioner Colvard will research information regarding DOH and DOE requirements to develop a new water source for the district.

Adjourn at 10:39am

Next meeting – Thursday, March 14, 2024

9:30 – 11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

Jan 11, 2024

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, Erin Colwell (via Zoom), John Colvard (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruikshank-Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris, Jeff Burgess, Brandon Burgess, Bill Burgess, Karen Dickinson

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:30

Commissioner Colwell moved to accept the December 14, 2023 minutes as written, Commissioner Colvard moved to second, motion passed.

Administrative

Approve: O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of December 31, 2023, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $42,713.12 in the general operating fund and $ 116,267.50 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $773.27.

Customer aging status as of January 1, 2024 was:

60 days – 18 customers @ 60 days ($1753.08)

90 days – 3 customers @ 90 days ($ 333.00)

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $8429.50. Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1719.00, Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve Resolution 2024-01-11A for Commissioner Guimond to be is elected President, Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve Resolution 2024-01-11B for Commissioner Colvard to be elected Secretary, Commissioner Guimond seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve Resolution 2024-01-11C to enter into Contract with Velda Millard, Bookkeeper, DVM Solutions, LLC; Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve Resolution 2024-01-11D Authorized Signers for LWWD Cashmere Valley Bank. The authorized signatures are Fred Guimond, John Colvard, Erin Colwell and Bruce Harris and Velda Millard (DVM Solutions), and removing Jillana Haight of Evergreen Accounting. Commissioner Colwell seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Guimond motioned to approve the auto-renewal of Zoom and iPage software licenses from the imprest fund. Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed.

Customer Status Report

Clerk Harris reported leak updates as of 12-16-2023 and 1-2-2024. Customers were notified.

No new meter installations.

Jeff Burgess reported that he has no water from his private well when the Homestead well is pumping.

Operations

Operator Cruickshank has adjusted the SCADA so that the Homestead wells will only pump at night. The chlorinator repairs have been completed.

The commissioners continued their discussion on the possibility of purchasing existing wells or redeveloping the Whispering Pines spring source. More information is needed.

Karen Dickinson will speak to her family about possible well sites.

Commissioner Colvard made a motion to 1) request a legal opinion on the senior and junior water rights in reference to LWWD, a municipality serving 180 customers, vs owner of a nearby private well that claims to have senior water rights. The private well owner claims that he gets no water when the district’s Homestead Well is pumping water to their reservoir and 2), request that Tumwater Drilling perform a current draw-down study on the 2 affected district wells and Burgess’s private well (BAP295) to determine impact. Commissioner Colwell seconded. Motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard will contact our attorney, Marc Marquis, after getting paperwork from Clerk Harris.

Clerk Harris will contact Lance at Tumwater Drilling to schedule a time that a draw-down study can be completed.

Adjourn at 11:20

Next meeting – Thursday, February 08, 2024

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

Feb 02, 2024 – 10am-11:30am

Special session to discuss the legal review of LWWD water rights

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond (via Zoom), Erin Colwell (via Zoom), John Colvard (via Zoom) – (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk,

Guests Present: Barbara Harris

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 10:00 am

Burgess well (BAP295)

The commissioners immediately went into executive session to review the advice provided by Marquis Law, the districts legal counsel. Based on that discussion, Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the letter written by Commissioner Colvard, and reviewed by the attorney, to be sent to Mr. Jeff Burgess after the meeting.

The letter and additional information on the hydro study done in 2012 was mailed shortly after the meeting.

Meeting Adjourned at 10:30

Next regular meeting – Thursday, February 08, 2024

9:30 – 11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes

Dec 14, 2023

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, Erin Colwell, John Colvard (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris-Clerk, Charlie Cruikshank-Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:31

Commissioner Colwell moved to accept the November 9, 2023 minutes as written, Commissioner Colvard moved to second, motion passed.

Administrative

Approve: O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of Nov 30, 2023, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $47,981.41 in the general operating fund and $ 116,267.50 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $945.96.

Customer aging status as of Dec, 08 2023 was:

60 days – 0 customers @ 60 days ($0)

90 days – 7 customers @ 90 days ($ 923.98)

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $8,137.34 Commissioner Guimond seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1587.00, Commissioner Guimond seconded, motion passed.

Clerk Harris reviewed the estimated impact of using an additional rate tier in the QwikWater billing program to capture high water users in such a way as to discourage over consumption without initiating a whole new ‘business rate’ which would be difficult to enforce. The impact would be immediate (2024) while research was being done to obtain a new water source.

Commissioner Colwell moved to approve the 2024 budget resolution 2023-12-14A (with updated 2024 rates), Commissioner Guimond moved to second, motion passed.

A notice would be sent out to the LWWD customers explaining the rate increase.

Moratorium on new water connections

Commissioner Colwell moved to approve lifting the moratorium on new water connections, effective January 1, 2024, Commissioner Guimond seconded, motion passed. Resolution 2023-10-12A Moratorium on New Service Connections was withdrawn, effective Jan 1, 2024, until severe water shortages warrant revisiting the moratorium again.

New Water Service Form

Commissioner Colwell moved to approve the new Water Service Form to be effective December 14, 2023, Commissioner Guimond moved to second, motion passed. This new form fixes the new water service connection fee at a flat rate that would be reviewed annually or when conditions, such as inflation, warrant it. Under this change, the water district would provide the meter vault/meter and oversight by the operator during the planning and installation of the meter. The actual installation, supervised by the operator, would be scheduled, and billed to the customer by the contractor. This does not apply to water main extensions, if required.

Customer Status Report

Leak report

A large leak on the west end of Brown Road (1459 gallons per day) has been repaired.

Operations

The operator discussed water odors in Lester Addition area was mostly the result of extensive pumping affecting the chlorine absorption in the water as a result of the large leak on Brown Road.

Our main supplier of water meters and supporting equipment is no longer carrying Master Meter products. The operator agreed to locate another vendor for Master Meter products.

The SCADA laptop computer that controls the well pumping and balancing of the system had its hard drive go out in the last week. It had been repaired but the commissioners asked the operator to check with RH2 and bring a proposal to the January 11, 2024, commissioners meeting for its replacement since it is 10 years old.

The commissioners also discussed the possibility of purchasing existing wells or redeveloping the Whispering Pines spring source. The topic was tabled until the next meeting so that more information could be researched.

Adjourn at 11:30

Next meeting – Thursday, Jan 11, 2024

9:30 – 11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes

Nov 09, 2023

Location: LWFR Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, Erin Colwell, John Colvard (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris – Clerk, Charlie Cruickshank – Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:34 am.

Commissioner Colvard moved to accept the minutes for October 12, 2023, as written. Commissioner Colwell seconded; motion passed.

Public comments (limit to 5 minutes each):

No public comments

Administrative

• Clerk Report
  • Leak report

1. Skougstad #1033 STR– 231 gpd – emailed
2. Schonberg # 1053 STR – meter read indicated big leak 1459 gpd. Verified – M Dickinson to repair asap – Phoned customer and water turned off until repaired
3. Ogle #1076 STR– 287 gpd waiting on LWWD to repair next to vault
4. Jim Davidson #1099 STR– 229 gpd STR in use -leak registered all year-STR mgr contacted.
5. Ellison #1087 – slow 109 gpd, he said he was going to visit soon to check again.
6. K. Dickinson #1086 STR and wedding venue 453 gpd – Mgr McCargo contacted and said leak has been repaired.
   • New meter installs

LWWD connections that are grandfathered because they were started before the moratorium: Carney (3) – Lester Addition, and Turner (1) on Brown Road. Ryan Barr (1) & Naik (1) in Mt Park division.

A new service request has not been received from Craig Carney because the short plat has not been completed. When his requests for new service and deposits ($46,500 for 3 parcels) are received and approved by the commissioners, then a watermain extension to lot 4 needs to go out for bid in spring 2024. There are concerns regarding the rock wall and the possibility of having to cross under highway 2 to a 2” main on opposite (north) side.

Ryan Barr – Per Mike Dickinson, not installed yet. Barr has made $2500 deposit.

Naik #1147 (Otis Childers Construction in Mt. Park) has not contacted us and he’s beyond the water certificate for 1 year (9/21/2023) – no new request yet for off North Shore Drive – an email was sent Oct 8 requesting that he contact us.

• Approve: O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of Oct 31, 2023, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $56,308.83 in the general operating fund and $ 101,487.50 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $967.95.

Customer aging status as of Nov 03, 2023 was:

60 days – 16 customers @ 60 days ($ 1334.54)

90 days – 5 customers @ 90 days ($ 495.25)

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $16,618.80 Commissioner Colwell seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,528.00, Commissioner Colwell seconded, motion passed.

• Administrative

1. Website – still accessible by customers but unable to be updated.
2. Contacted:
3. Keith Fast who contacted LWI web master – no response.
4. Emailed Kris Norby for recommendations – no response.
5. Payroll deductions – Commissioners signed request for Chelan County to have Family Medical Leave and Washington Cares deductions taken from employee checks (does not apply to commissioners).
6. Bookkeeper contract – Jan 31, 2024 Evergreen Accounting contract ends.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to sign the contract with Velda Millard, DVM Solutions, LLC, as submitted in draft form at the Nov 09^th meeting, to provide bookkeeping services for the water district. Commissioner Colwell seconded, motion passed. Velda Millard will be paid an hourly rate for training from November 10 until January 31, 2024. On February 1, 2024 she will be compensated at an hourly rate for bookkeeping services as shown on the draft contract until a monthly fixed rate can be negotiated. The commissioners will sign the updated contract at or before the December 14, 2023 meeting.

Operations

• Operator updates

Operator Cruickshank discussed the routing of water mains especially through Lester Addition and the possible reasons for sulfur and chlorine odors in the water.

• New water source
  • Discussed RH2’s well map of the area

• • Discussed rate change analysis to curtail consumption and generate revenue for a new well. The discussion will continue at the December 14, 2023 meeting.

Adjourned at 11:30

Next meeting – Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

9:30 – 11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes

Oct 12, 2023

Location: LWFR Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, Erin Colwell (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris – Clerk, Charlie Cruickshank – Operator

Guests Present: Barbara Harris, Ann Johnson, Jeff Burgess

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:57 am.

Commissioner Guimond moved to accept the minutes for September 15, 2023, as written. Commissioner Colwell seconded; motion passed.

Public comments (limit to 5 minutes each):

Jeff Burgess stated that he is still not getting water from his private well.

Administrative:

Clerk Report:

Water Availability Requests (WAR) and Certificates (WAC):

No new water availability requests have been received since the last commissioner’s meeting.

Water Shortage and Leak Status:

Additional long-term planning is needed regarding additional capacity and/or water sources.

Clerk Harris contacted RH2 Engineering to develop a map of wells producing at least 15 gallons per minute.

Clerk Harris reported that Commissioner Colvard determined that there are no grants for 2024 that the district could use for an additional well.

LWWD Snow clearing for 2023/2024 season: 2 bids were received for snow clearing for 23-24 winter season. Commissioner Colwell motioned to award the bid to Leavenworth Electric; Commissioner Guimond seconded; Motion passed.

The LWWD website is unable to be updated and needs repair. Commissioner Colwell motioned to have Clerk Harris hire someone to take over the repair and maintenance of the website; Commissioner Guimond seconded; Motion passed.

The contract with Evergreen Accounting is not going to be renewed by the accounting firm because of the limited resources available to service their accounts. LWWD will be searching for a replacement bookkeeper to handle the monthly account processes for LWWD.

O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of September 30, 2023, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $57,155.99 in the general operating fund and $ 100,737.92 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $920.40.

Customer aging status as of Sep 1, 2023 was:

60 days – 0 customers @ 60 days ($ 0.00)

90 days – 5 customers @ 90 days ($ 495.25)

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $4,347.58; Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,815.00; Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed.

Operations

Operator Cruikshank was directed to have the leak at the base of the vault checked out and repaired on the Ogle meter connection on Brown Road.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the Moratorium on New Water Connections until another water source can be developed to resolve the water shortage. Commissioner Guimond seconded; motion passed. The 2 commissioners who were present at the meeting signed the resolution.

Potential sources of water were discussed and will be presented to RH2 Engineering when the well map is complete.

Jeff Burgess, whose well has been running dry this summer, agreed to contact Tumwater Drilling to determine the cost of digging his well deeper to be at comparable depth as the surrounding wells.

Water rates were discussed. The consensus was that the rate for water use over 350 gallons per day (21,000 gallons per 2 month billing period) needs to be higher to discourage excessive water use and to raise funds for a new water source. Figures will be brought to the November 9 meeting for discussion and a vote of the commissioners.

The meeting adjourned at 12:15pm.

Next meeting – Thursday, November 9, 2023 9:30 – 11:30 am

Lake Wenatchee Water District

Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes

Sep 15, 2023

Location: Fire Station #91

21696 Lake Wenatchee Hwy

Commissioners Present: Fred Guimond, John Colvard, Erin Colwell (quorum established)

Staff Present: Bruce Harris – Clerk

Guests Present: Barbara Harris, Chelan County Commissioner Shon Smith, Jeff Burgess, Jim Paris, Kristi Weihs, Jill Joplin

Commissioner Guimond called the meeting to order at 9:35 am.

Commissioner Colwell moved to accept the minutes for Aug 10, 2023, as written. Commissioner Colvard seconded; motion passed.

Public comments:

Jeff Burgess voiced his concerns that his personal well on Brown Road was being adversely impacted by the LWWD homestead pumphouse wells located approximately 200 and 400 feet from his well. Several times through the summer of 2023 his well would run dry, especially over holidays and weekends.

The commissioners were aware of Mr. Burgess’ concerns and had taken several measures during this period to help increase the availability of aquifer water.

Kristi Weihs was concerned about the water quality as well. It was explained that the excessive consumption/pumping of the water, especially on weekends, resulted in a much lower contact time of the chlorine in the system. This creates a more dramatic sulfur smell even though the water is safe to drink.

The Commissioners agreed to continue exploring alternatives and to expand the search to acquire a proven existing local well and search out funding opportunities to drill for a new water source if necessary. In addition, efforts will be made to continue leak detection and enforcement.

Administrative

Clerk Report

Water Availability Requests (WAR) and Certificates (WAC):

No new water availability requests have been received since the last commissioner’s meeting.

The new meter connection for parcel 271614700030 was installed in the Mt. Park section of the system. This connection was requested in 2022 and is not a part of the main Homestead well infrastructure.

Also parcel 271718340575 was connected based on a request from June 2021. It is currently a vacant lot.

Water Shortage and Leak Status:

Because of the dry conditions experienced over the summer of 2023, extra meter runs were made to isolate excessive use or unidentified leaks. These additional meter reads were done on July 30^th and Sept 07 because of pumping issues at the Homestead pumphouse and critically low aquifer levels.

SACDA software pumping cycle modifications requested by the commissioners were also installed by RH2 Engineering to specifically focus reservoir filling operations to between hours of 10 pm and 5 am. This would allow the aquifer more opportunities to refresh during the daytime hours. According to Mr. Burgess, the SCADA control system changes did not appear to correct his situation.

Excessive use reports were also generated on these special meter runs which identified several customers who either had new leaks or were overconsuming under dry conditions. They were contacted by the clerk.

The commissioners agreed that the additional reports from the meter runs confirmed the concentration of use was, once again, focused over weekends where rental activity increases the population and resulting water use. The commissioners felt there needed to be more frequent oversight of the water use/leak situation.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to, effective immediately, continue reading the meters during the winter months, resulting in a bi-monthly cycle year-round until further notice; Commissioner Colvard seconded, motion passed. Clerk Harris will contact the bookkeeper regarding this change.

Even though it was agreed that additional long-term planning is needed regarding additional capacity and/or water sources (new well), the commissioners felt a near term solution was required as soon as possible for handling immediate shortages and strains on the aquifer.

Commissioner Colwell motioned to approve the clerk or water system operator to coordinate with RH2 Engineering to provide a map of the existing private wells in the impacted area and the possible aquifer influence the well would have on the wells in the local vicinity; Commissioner Colvard seconded; motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to have the clerk provide an email notice to the LWWD customers summarizing the current situation and the alternatives that the commissioners are reviewing to remedy the situation, both short and long term; Commissioner Guimond seconded, motion passed.

In addition to the most up to date map of existing private wells within the district service area, Commissioner Colvard would continue to identify possible funding solutions for either the purchase of a private well or drilling of a new well.

LWWD Snow clearing for 2023/2024 season:

Requests for email bids were sent out to prospective snow removal contractors on the small works roster for the 2023/2024 season. The commissioners will award the winning bid at the Oct 12, 2023, meeting.

O&M and Payroll Warrants

Monthly financial reports: As of August 31, 2023, Treasurer’s balance sheet shows $52,234.82 in the general operating fund and $ 99,671.98 in the reserve fund. Imprest balance is $981.66.

Customer aging status as of Sep 1, 2023 was:

60 days – 5 customers @ 60 days ($ 1253.93)

90 days – 0 customers @ 90 days ($ 0.00)

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve the O&M warrant for $6,807.87, Commissioner Colwell seconded, motion passed.

Commissioner Colvard motioned to approve payroll warrant for $1,671.00, Commissioner Colwell seconded, motion passed.

Operations

Generator update: Yakima Generator completed their installation of the final components to the Kohler backup generator and performed the start-up procedure with system operator Cruickshank and clerk Harris present. The output of the generator, using a ‘full pump house load demand’ was measured at using only 54% of its total generating capacity. The repairs were successful, and the generator was then registered by the vendor (Kohler representative) for its five-year warranty. The clerk is now working with Chelan County Natural Resources Department to close the interlocal cooperation agreement (FM-5182-19-R) opened in 2020 to share FEMA grant funding with four other water districts or associations.

Meeting adjourned at 11:25 am.

Next meeting – Thursday, Oct 12, 2023 9:30 – 11:30 am