VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETINGS
MARCH 9, 2010
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees
was held on the 9th day of March, 2010, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Woodhouse presided
and the roll being called the following board members were present and
absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer,
Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Motion by Barron,
second by Kremer to approve the minutes of the February 9th
meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared
the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Elwick to
approve the following invoices in the amount of $339,921.32, excluding
investments. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by
Barron to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Nathan Hesson, Vinton Unlimited Director, attended tonight's meeting.
Kevin
Kirchner, generation plant, and Jerry Meadows, line distribution,
discussed an alternative flood preparation to protect the
buildings. Z-blocks and bridge planks could be attached to the
generation and distribution buildings. The doors and windows
would also be covered. Kirchner stated that for approximately 5
feet of protection, or a 25 foot flood, the cost would be $2,000.
Meadows' estimated cost for 5 feet is $700. The Trustees' general
consensus was to protect up to a 30 foot flood stage. The
distribution building will purchase gas and electric sump pumps.
Manager Ohrt will check on how much pressure the line shop walls can
hold. Ohrt has obtained a one year emergency permit from IDOT to
place HESCO barriers along the right of way on 1st Avenue.
Kirchner and Meadows left the meeting at 5:38 p.m I believe.
Motion
by Elwick, second by Anderson to approve an energy adjustment factor of
4.56 cents per kWh for March billings.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
RPGI requested that the power plant generate last
month. Credit for this generation should come on April's
purchased power invoice.
Manager Ohrt reported that his
survey of pole rental rates ranged from $3.50 to $16.74 per pole.
Motion by Elwick to set the pole rental rate at $15. The motion
failed for lack of a second. Ohrt will have a formal proposal at the
next meeting.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer
to receive and file the February revenue and expenditure report.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 837,873.23
REVENUES
387,247.23
EXPENDITURES 360,885.47
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE 864,264.99
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
1,889,443.63
REVENUES
767.41
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE
1,890,211.04
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
750,000.00
REVENUES
0.00
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to increase Vinton Park Apartments
required deposits by $50. Question: Yes - Anderson, Barron,
Kremer, Woodhouse. No - Elwick. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Debit and credit card capability, with a
transaction fee were considered. The general consensus was in
favor of implementing this service. More information is needed.
The meeting in April will be held on Tuesday, April 20th at 5:00 p.m..
Kremer
inquired if the City would want to borrow from VMEU for the street
department equipment. The principal is not to exceed
$400,000. An interest rate of 2% was suggested.
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) HESCO company to be here on March 18th. 2)
Received draft audit report for FY 2009. Needs to be filed with
the state by March 31st. 3) Working on various government reports. 4)
Team Services has tested the ground for the new substation. 5) Received
the new transformer specifications. It is being prepared for
shipment. 6) Batteries have been replaced at the south substation. 7)
Territory discussion with ECIREC. 8) Electric rate increase.
Motion
by Barron, second by Elwick to adjourn the meeting.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried. Time: 6:14 p.m..
___________________________
Dr. Alan S. Woodhouse
Chairman
Attest: _______________________
Cindy Michael Secretary
FEBRUARY 9, 2010
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees
was held on the 9th day of February, 2010, at 5:10 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and
the roll being called the following board members were present and
absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer. Absent:
Woodhouse.
Motion by Kremer, second by
Barron to approve the minutes of the January 12th meeting.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Anderson to
approve the following invoices in the amount of $381,059.80, excluding
investments. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Barron,
second by Kremer to approve the agenda. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to pass a RESOLUTION AMENDING
REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY REBATES.
Question: Yes - Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer. The
Chairman declared the motion carried and declared E02-10-01 passed and
approved. Federal energy efficiency guidelines will be used.
Motion by Barron, second by Anderson to approve an energy adjustment
factor of 3.68 cents per kWh for February
billings. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared
the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt discussed the need
for one more acre for sand storage. Motion by Anderson, second by
Barron to authorize Ohrt to pursue the purchase of another acre from
Roger Wenner. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer,
second by Elwick to approve the proposed budget for FY 2010-2011 and
authorize the secretary to include it with the City's budget for public
hearing and adoption. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried. Ohrt had removed some
capital projects from the original proposed budget.
Discussion of the leaking frames and plates for the heat exchanger was tabled until the next meeting.
Manager Ohrt has a worksheet to calculate pole rental expense. He
will further check on pole rental rates of surrounding utilities.
The Trustees discussed appointing a new chairman. Motion by
Barron, second by Anderson to appoint Woodhouse as Chairman for
2010. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
The Trustees discussed possible layout
plans for the HESCO flood barriers. Preference was expressed for
a u-shaped design versus a closed geometric shape. They are
hoping for assistance from the county and city. Options for
loading sand into the barriers on the north side of the power plant
were discussed. A few barriers may be set up in mid March.
Motion by Barron, second by Elwick to receive and file the January
revenue and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 683,852.20
REVENUES
1,388,140.71
EXPENDITURES 434,119.68
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 800,000.00
ENDING BALANCE 837,873.23
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
1,088,883.48
REVENUES
560.15
TRANSFERS IN 800,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE
1,889,443.63
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
750,000.00
REVENUES
0.00
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE
750,000.00
ESCO has checked the batteries at all
substations and recommends replacing the battery at the south
substation. The charger at the south sub still works, but repair parts
are unavailable. Motion by Anderson, second by Kremer to
purchase a battery set for the south substation. The cost is not
to exceed $7,480.00. This NTE includes a re-inspection of the
east substation. Question: Ayes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer,
second by Barron to approve a permanent tie between ECIREC and VMEU by
the Iowa Soy Specialties. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried. The expense for metering costs
will be shared equally.
Manager Ohrt reported
on: 1) Holes were bored in the line shop. 2) LT Smith, with the
State, to be here soon to close out 6 FEMA project worksheets. 3)
Received topographic survey.
Motion by Barron,
second by Kremer to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time:
6:45 p.m..
_________________________
Michael
G. Elwick Chairman
Attest: _______________________
Cindy Michael Secretary
JANUARY 12, 2010
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees
was held on the 12th day of January, 2010, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and
the roll being called the following board members were present and
absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer,
Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve the minutes of the December
8th meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer,
second by Anderson to approve the following invoices in the amount of
$387,314.83, excluding investments. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to approve the agenda.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to
approve an energy adjustment factor of 3.5 cents per kWh for
January billings. Question: Yes - Anderson, Barron, Kremer,
Woodhouse. No - Elwick. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
The Trustees reviewed a proposed budget
for FY 2010-2011. The budget includes shared costs with the City
for new computer software and a meter reader pickup. A new
substation transformer will be done this year and the switch gear next
year. The Trustees asked Manager Ohrt to remove some capital
improvement projects and to look into increasing pole rentals.
The Trustees may have to consider electric rate increases for the next
fiscal year. The budget will be finalized at the February
meeting.
Manager
Ohrt would like the Trustees to adopt the federal guidelines for
a new energy efficiency standards policy. A resolution for
these new guidelines will be drafted and on the next meeting agenda.
Manager Ohrt stated the rock faced HESCO barriers, which are more
permanent, cost $668 each. He has contacted Mike Helms with
Stanley Consultants about HESCO barriers.
Elwick left the meeting at 6:50 p.m..
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to receive and file the December
revenue and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All.
Acting Chairman Woodhouse declared the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 678,316.21
REVENUES
303,864.04
EXPENDITURES 301,094.48
TRANSFERS IN
2,766.43
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE 683,852.20
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
1,086,211.39
REVENUES
2,672.09
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE
1,088,883.48
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
750,000.00
REVENUES
0.00
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
IAMU asked the board members to consider personal contributions to MuniPac.
Elwick returned to the meeting at 7:00 p.m..
Manager Ohrt informed the Trustees that the new framed plates for the
heat exchanger leaked. The gaskets on the plates aren't
right. These plates were purchased for $15,000 from Moore Process
in Atkins, Iowa. Moore Process is asking $5,000 to re-gasket
them. Ohrt feels they should be under warranty yet and not have
to pay $5,000. Chairman Elwick will contact this company.
Manager Ohrt reported on: 1) Another FEMA project worksheet will
be closed soon. 2) He and K. Kirchner will be attending an RPGI
meeting.
VMEU received large advance, over $1,000,000 from FEMA for flood reimbursements last week.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to adjourn the meeting.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried. Time: 7:18 p.m..
Michael G. Elwick Chairman
Attest: Cindy Michael Secretary
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2009
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees
was held on the 8th day of December, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and
the roll being called the following board members were present and
absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer,
Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve the minutes of the November
9th meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer,
second by Woodhouse to approve the following invoices in the amount of
$253,689.18, excluding investments. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve the agenda.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Vinton Unlimited Director, Nathan Hesson,
and board member Don Eells, asked the Trustees to continue their
financial support of VU. The Trustees asked them to place
emphasis on economic development. Motion by Woodhouse, second by
Barron to approve the disbursement of budgeted funding in the amount of
$6,500.00 to Vinton Unlimited. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried. Hesson also asked that
VU support be considered in the next budget. For safety and
liability reasons, downtown merchants have been told not to plug in
holiday lighting into VMEU's utility poles.
Motion by Barron, second by Woodhouse to approve an energy adjustment
factor of 3 cents per kWh for December
billings. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared
the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt has received three
engineering bids for new substation design. Motion by Anderson,
second by Woodhouse to approve the bid from ESCO Energy for
$86,800. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared
the motion carried. One lower bid from GRP Engineering was
declined due to a long distance factor, Grand Rapids, MI and no
references. ESCO is in Marion, Iowa and has done good work at
VMEU since the flood of June 2008.
Motion by
Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve a Z block purchase in the amount
of $4,000 plus tax from Wheeler Enterprises. Question: Yes
- All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. The Z
block is a fuel pump unit that can be used on multiple generators.
Manager Ohrt reviewed the preliminary budget for fiscal year
2010-2011. He was asked to budget some for flood mitigation
measures such as pumps and more HESCO barriers. Electric rates
may have to be raised in the next fiscal year. The budget will be
reviewed again at their next meeting.
Elwick reported
that he is considering starting an energy consulting business.
There are meters that can monitor electric use in homes and
businesses. The meters would help promote energy
efficiency. VMEU has purchased two meters to check energy
consumption.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by
Anderson to receive and file the November revenue and expenditure
report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared
the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 836,679.94
REVENUES
420,995.97
EXPENDITURES 279,359.70
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 300,000.00
ENDING BALANCE 678,316.21
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 784,381.15
REVENUES
1,830.24
TRANSFERS IN 300,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE
1,086,211.39
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
750,000.00
REVENUES
0.00
TRANSFERS IN
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE
750,000.00
Manager Ohrt reported on: 1) While certifying the power plant's
generation, the internet went down. A report from the SCADA
program was sent to verify the plant's metering. 2) FEMA has granted
extensions on 5 project worksheets. 3) Ameron has made an offer to
RPGI. 4) IUB energy efficiency programs required starting in 2010. 5)
Concrete work has been started in the line shop basement. 6) Flood
mitigation meeting on 12-14-09. 7) Received a wage survey of Iowa
utilities from comparable town sizes. 8) Has requested an advance from
a larger FEMA project worksheet. 9) Wenner land has been purchased for
the new substation. 10) Replacing a bathroom at the power plant. 11)
Will be using some vacation time at the end of this month.
Woodhouse indicated that he is willing to serve another term on the VMEU board.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to adjourn the meeting.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried. Time: 7:25 p.m..
Michael G. Elwick Chairman
Attest: Cindy Michael Secretary
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees
was held on the 9th day of November, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. The meeting date was changed
to Monday night due to scheduling conflicts. Chairman Elwick
presided and the roll being called the following board members were
present and absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer,
Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Barron to approve the minutes of the October 13th
meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared
the motion carried.
Motion by Anderson, second by
Woodhouse to approve the following invoices in the amount of
$207,164.99, excluding investments. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve the agenda.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to
approve an energy adjustment factor of 2.4 cents per kWh
for November billings. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by
Kremer, second by Anderson to accept the maintenance contract from
Altorfer on the new generator. The cost is $1,373 every six
months, for five years. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt
reported that the SCADA systems locks up sometimes. Improvements
to speed up the computer may cost $4,000.00. He will do some more
research on improvement costs for this system.
Barron inquired about the fire station's link to the power plant in
case of a power outage. Ohrt reported that the transfer switch
had been delivered and that his crew would install it this winter.
The Trustees discussed the disbursement of budgeted funding to Vinton
Unlimited. They feel their contribution should go towards
economic development and not just for retail. Barron suggested to
table the request until the next meeting. Elwick will send a
letter to VU asking them to attend the next meeting and to place
emphasis on Vinton's economic development.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Barron to receive and file the October revenue and
expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 549,037.60
REVENUES 323,491.60
EXPENDITURES 292,651.94
TRANSFERS IN 256,802.68
TRANSFERS OUT
0.00
ENDING BALANCE 836,679.94
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,039,342.07
REVENUES
1,841.76
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 256,802.68
ENDING BALANCE 784,381.15
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE
750,000.00
REVENUES
0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to continue the issuance of $15
scrip money for holiday lighting. Question: Yes - Anderson,
Barron, Elwick, Kremer. No - Woodhouse. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt reported
on: 1) Power plant will run for capacity credit. 2) The deadline
for a few FEMA project worksheets has been extended. 3) Ameron is
offering a buy in to its generating system to RPGI. 4) Sent an e-mail
to VU to remind merchants to not plug holiday lights into the street
lights. 5) Purchasing a couple whole house meters that can check
electric consumptions. 6) Working on flood prevention measures. 7)
Elwick and Ohrt to talk with county supervisors about flood mitigation.
8) To attend a disaster seminar Thursday and Friday. He will be
out of the office on Nov. 25th. 9) Elwick encourages a joint
City-County-Electric Utility task force for flood protection.
Manager Ohrt will soon start working on the budget for FY 2010-2011.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned. Time: 6:55 p.m..
Michael G. Elwick Chairman
Attest: Cindy Michael Secretary
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 13, 2009
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric boar of Trustees was held on the 13th
day of October, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line Distribution Office,
Vinton, Iowa. Acting Chairman Woodhouse presided and the roll
being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Woodhouse. Absent: Elwick,
Kremer.
Motion
by Barron, second by Anderson to approve the minutes of the September
8, 2009 meeting. Question: Yes – All. The Acting Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Elwick and Kremer arrived at 5:04 p.m.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Barron to approve the following invoices in the
amount of $299,881.21, excluding investments. Question: Yes –
All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve the agenda.
Question: Yes – All. The Acting Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Woodhouse to approve an energy adjustment factor
of .032 per kWh for October billings. Question: Yes –
All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Barron, second by Elwick to award the concrete contract for the
basement of the line distribution building to Webb Concrete for
$69,800.00. Question: Yes – All. The Acting Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Elwick, second by Barron to award the garage doors contract for the
storage building to Ollinger Garage Doors for $3,875.00. The
Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Discussion was made of involving the Army Corps of Engineers for a floodwall, but because of the high cost it was dropped.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve the purchase of a new
server, which involves half of the price of a new system.
Question: Yes – All. The Acting Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to receive and file the September
revenue and expenditure report. Question: Yes – All.
The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING
BALANCE
323,754.50
REVENUES
406,197.93
EXPENDITURES
391,557.57
TRANSFERS
IN
210,642.74
TRANSFERS
OUT
0 .00
ENDING
BALANCE 549,037.60
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING
BALANCE
1,249,321.53
REVENUES
663.28
TRANSFERS
0.00
TRANSFERS
210,642.74
ENDING
BALANCE
1,039,342.07
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING
BALANCE
750,000.00
REVENUES
0.00
TRANSFERS
0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING
BALANCE
750,000.00
Discussion
was held on the holiday lights scrip money and lighting contest and was
tabled till next month after being able to review the participation of
the last three years.
Manager
Ohrt reported on the need for new Load Tap Changer for the East
Substation at a cost of $1,611.00. Motion by Elwick, second by
Barron to purchase the LTC for the Sub. Question: Yes –
All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1)the arcing problem in the switchgear was found and
fixed. 2)filing for an extension on flood project
worksheets. 3)Engineering costs for the new south
substation 4) IAMU conference topics. 5)Unit 1 to be
delivered the week of October 19th. 6)the need for a skid loader.
Motion by Barron, second by Woodhouse to adjourn the meeting.
Question: Yes – All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 6:15 p.m.
Dr. Alan S Woodhouse, Acting Chairman
Attest: Lori Hill, Acting Secretary
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
SEPTEMBER 8, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 8th day of September, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Acting Chairman Woodhouse presided
and the roll being called the following board members were present and
absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Kremer, Woodhouse. Absent: Elwick.
Motion
by Barron, second by Kremer to approve the minutes of the August 18th
and 24th meetings. Question: Yes - All. The Acting Chairman declared
the motion carried.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Anderson to approve the following invoices in the
amount of $272,686.48, excluding investments, plus four additional
invoices for $36,342.10 were also approved. Question: Yes - All. The
Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to approve an energy adjustment factor of
3 cents per kWh for September billings. Question: Yes - All. The Acting
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt has received one bid for concrete for the basement of the line
distribution building. He is anticipating more bids to come. The
Trustees will wait till their next meeting to further consider this
topic.
Elwick arrived at 5:14 p.m..
Motion
by Kremer, second by Anderson to increase consulting fees for Stanley
Consultants to $15,000 (preliminary quote was $9,300) and additional
fees up to $10,000 for Brain Engineering,
for
an altered scope of flood mitigation. Question: Yes - All. The Acting
Chairman declared the motion carried. The altered flood mitigation plan
would help protect the lift station at East 1st Street and 6th Avenue.
Manager Ohrt will be attending the IAMU fall conference from October 7th - 9th.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve the purchase of a battery
charger for $2,495 and have the batteries inspected for $1,480.
Question: Yes - All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Anderson to receive and file the August revenue
and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 342,748.57
REVENUES 347,925.45
EXPENDITURES 546,919.52
TRANSFERS IN 180,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 323,754.50
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,429,291.28
REVENUES 30.25
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 180,000.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,249,321.53
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) The south substation is .75 acres. 2) Wenner land
to be surveyed. 3) Attended RPGI meeting and update on CIPCO suit. 4)
Change in FERC rulings improved transmission investment refund. 5) Urge
testing now called ACT. 6) WPPI rate hike per Maquoketa utility. 7)
Generating for MISO voltage support. 8) Alliant needs to fix gas meters
and regulators at the plant.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Barron to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes -
All. The Acting Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 6:25 p.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
AUGUST 18, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 18th day of August, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer, Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Also present: Scott Hardy ESCO Energy and Andy Lent, City Coordinator.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Anderson to approve the minutes of the July 14th
meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Woodhouse to approve the following invoices in
the amount of $681,850.54, excluding investments. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Andy
Lent, City Coordinator, stated that the City Council passed a
resolution declaring the City as the I-Jobs applicant for the flood
wall funding. VMEU is planning said flood wall. Lent expressed concern
about the properties in the FEMA buyout program.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to approve an energy adjustment factor of
3.6 cents per kWh for August billings. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Scott
Hardy, ESCO Energy, had substation cost estimates. Land owned by Roger
Wenner has a higher elevation than Keith Ohrt’s land. Motion by
Anderson, second by Kremer to negotiate with Wenner for purchase of
said land. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Manager
Ohrt stated that VMEU has frequently used a skid loader owned by the
street department. The street department needs to use the skid loader.
Ohrt to check on rental costs.
Manager
Ohrt stated that the flood damaged a fuel filter vessel. FEMA will
reimburse VMEU for this vessel. There are also two other fuel filter
vessels that are very old and he suggests replacing these two at the
same time as the one damaged by the flood. Motion by Woodhouse, second
by Kremer to approve replacing all three fuel filter vessels. Question:
Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. The estimated cost
of the two filters is $2,600.00.
Motion
by Barron, second by Kremer to allow Manager Ohrt to carryover
remaining vacation time past his anniversary date. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
HESCO
flood barriers have been received. Ohrt to seek a filling and stacking
demonstration. K. Kirchner has signed for lead man at the generation
plant.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Woodhouse to receive and file the July revenue and
expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 613,768.87
REVENUES 325,061.77
EXPENDITURES 542,929.07
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 53,153.00
ENDING BALANCE 342,748.57
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,429,251.00
REVENUES 40.28
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,429,291.28
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) IAMU conference in October. 2) Semiannual
apprenticeship review next month. 3) Line shop basement floor
specifications have been received. 4) Roof repairs are in progress at
the plant.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 6:30 p.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
AUGUST 24, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 24th day of August, 2009, at 7:45 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Acting Chairman Woodhouse presided
and the roll being called the following board members were present and
absent: Present: Anderson, Barron, Woodhouse. Absent: Elwick, Kremer.
Also present, Scott Hardy and Lynn Hamrick, ESCO Energy.
Scott
Hardy and Lynn Hamrick, ESCO Energy, stated that generator #1 was
damaged when they tried to fire it up. They agreed that ESCO is liable
for some of the damage, but think Farabee should also share in the
liability. Farabee only tested unit #1 up to 7,500 volts. ESCO feels
they should have tested it to 15,000. ESCO did not receive the test
reports until after unit #1 was fired up.
Elwick arrived at 8:02 a.m..
ESCO Energy feels that had the unit been tested adequately, the defect would have shown up.
Manager
Ohrt to contact other companies, such as Rock Island, Siemens, Hupp and
Monarch for their opinion on testing levels. Then he will contact
Farabee.
Kremer arrived at 8:15 a.m..
ESCO thought there might have been damage during the shipping of unit #1.
The meeting adjourned. Time: 8:20 a.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
JULY 14, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 14th day of July, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Elwick, Woodhouse. Absent: Barron, Kremer. Also
present: Brad Hackett, ESCO Electric.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve the minutes of the June 9th
meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Kremer arrived at 5:02 p.m..
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve the following invoices in the
amount of $533,374.67, excluding investments. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Anderson, second by Woodhouse to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Chairman Elwick presented an employee service award to Jeff Kenney. Kenney has worked for the City and VMEU for 10 years.
Brad
Hackett, ESCO Electric requested additional payment for more flood
damage work, the majority of it for labor and a small portion for
materials. Motion by Anderson, second by Woodhouse to approve
additional ESCO Electric labor & material expense not to exceed
$75,000. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
ESCO should be done by the end of August.
Manager
Ohrt reported Altorfer provided an additional premium warranty for 5
years, at no cost, on the new generator because of delays in getting
the unit. Altorfer will review the maintenance schedule with the power
plant employees in the near future.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve an energy adjustment factor
of 4.39 cents per kWh for July billings. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt received two bids for the generation plant roof. One from Lenny
Geiger and one from McDowells. The bids were only about $400 apart.
Motion by Anderson, second by Kremer to approve up to $18,785 for this
roof. Ohrt to seek whomever can start the project the soonest and be
completed within 60 days. Liquidated damages of 1% per day will be
assessed if not completed within 60 days. No rain clause will be given.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Kremer to release final payment to Altorfer for
the new generator. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
The
Trustees consider purchasing approximately two acres of ground from
Keith Ohrt. The land would be used for a new transformer. The utility
also has ground around the south substation, but a lot of work would
have to be done here. Elwick asked for a cost comparison.
Ron
Readnour will be retiring at the end of July. The power plant foreman
position will be posted for the union. A relief operator/ground man
position was discussed. No action was taken.
Manager
Ohrt has budgeted for part-time help up to 20 hours per week. Hill is
not always available. It was suggested to have his phone calls roll to
City Hall when necessary.
Manager
Ohrt reported that applications for CREB funding, clean renewable
energy bonds, for wind turbines are available until August 4th. The
local school board is still interested. No action was taken.
The
Trustees discussed how many HESCO flood barriers to purchase. Motion by
Kremer, second by Woodhouse to amend a previous authorization amount of
$50,000 to $75,000 for HESCO barriers. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried. Manager Ohrt will order them
tomorrow.
Manager
Ohrt reported that the hazard mitigation proposal (HMP) worksheet for
flood barriers was redone. He is waiting for a cover letter from George
Malcocm describing the barrier plan that is to accompany the HMP to
Washington, DC . There is no guarantee of payment from FEMA for the
demountable flood barriers. He has submitted an application of intent
to I-Jobs. He will contact ECICOG for grant application assistance.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to receive and file the June revenue and
expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 1,160,694.03
REVENUES 280,029.96
EXPENDITURES 614,667.30
TRANSFERS IN 2,721.18
TRANSFERS OUT 215.000.00
ENDING BALANCE 613,768.87
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,205,211.64
REVENUES 9,039.36
TRANSFERS IN 215,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,429,251.00
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Manager
Ohrt reported that the City may be considering a new meter reader
pickup. The cost may be shared between the water, sewer and electric
departments.
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) No news on CIPCO lawsuit. 2) New RPGI 2011 energy
contract is less than the contract for 2010. 3) June’s peak demand was
9.7 meg. 4) Vacation is scheduled for early August.
The next Trustee meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 18th at 5:00 p.m..
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 8:02 p.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
JUNE 9, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 9th day of June, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Woodhouse. Absent: Kremer. Also
present: Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve the minutes of the May 12th
meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve the following invoices in
the amount of $398,241.61, excluding investments. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
The Trustees will arrange a tour for the City Council of the newly repaired generation plant.
Scott
Hardy, ESCO Energy, gave updates on the generation plant remodel.
Wiring in the basement in done. RPGI still has a meter problem on #6.
Engines #7, 8 and 9 have all been accredited. The cat cover from
Altorfer is not yet here. The monitoring systems are working well.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to pass a RESOLUTION AMENDING EXCESS
FACILITIES CHARGE OF THE ADOPTED RATES SCHEDULES FOR SERVICE PROVIDED
BY THE VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY. Question: Yes - Anderson,
Barron, Elwick, Woodhouse. No - None. The Chairman declared the motion
carried and declared RESOLUTION 06-09-01 passed and approved.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to approve an energy adjustment factor of
3.43 cents per kWh for June billings. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt reviewed the FEMA project worksheets. The Trustees discussed the
temporary and permanent flood barrier project worksheet. Ohrt stated
that FEMA does not pay for temporary flood mitigation. Ohrt received 5
bids for surveying. Brain Engineering had the low bid of $9,800.00.
Motion by Anderson, second by Barron to approve the surveying bid from
Brain Engineering. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Manager Ohrt reported that the turbocharger repair was due to problems with the bearings.
The general consensus was to have Karr complete the concrete work at plant around the generator platform.
Lenny
Geiger was delayed from doing roof repair at plant last year because of
the flood. The price of shingles has gone up since then. Manager Ohrt
will check on the cost of steel roofing versus shingles.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to increase the general manager’s
salary by 4%. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried. Motion by Barron, second by Anderson to increase the clerical
wage by 4%. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to receive and file the May revenue
and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 1,555,320.35
REVENUES 401,362.05
EXPENDITURES 642,475.21
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 153,513.16
ENDING BALANCE 1,160,694.03
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,051,685.23
REVENUES 13.25
TRANSFERS IN 153,513.16
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,205,211.64
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
The
Iowa Code chapter 21, open meetings, was reviewed. Manager Ohrt will
report at monthly meetings on phone calls and e-mails with Trustees if
they are significant.
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) Still waiting for metering on unit #6. 2) Ordered
transfer switch for fire station. 3) Loss of revenue from flood is not
covered by our insurance. 4) Farabee will be here on the 15th to
install unit #1 5) Has talked with Keith Ohrt about use of right-of-way
and or purchase of land for the new substation transformer.
Secretary
reported: 1) Hogan-Hansen will be the auditing firm for the next three
years. 2) The RPGI membership meeting will be held in Vinton this month
on June 30th.
Motion
by Barron, second by Woodhouse to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 7:30 p.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
MAY 12, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 12th day of May, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer, Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Also present: Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve the minutes of the April 14th
and 28th meetings. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve the following invoices in
the amount of $634,778.57, excluding investments. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Scott
Hardy, ESCO Energy, updated progress at the power plant. The engines
have been up and running. Engine #6 has some turbo issues. Alliant has
worked on the regulators. Pumps are back in. One fuel pump on #6 is not
working. Engine #9 jacket water pumps are in. The SCADA system is also
working. Engine #7 and #8 will meet our capacity credit for the RPGI
contract.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Kremer to pass a RESOLUTION AMENDING PAGE 3 OF
THE PRICE SCHEDULE OF THE ADOPTED RATE SCHEDULES FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
CLASSIFICATIONS FOR ELECTRIC SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE VINTON MUNICIPAL
ELECTRIC UTILITY. Question: Yes - Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer,
Woodhouse. No - None. The Chairman declared the motion carried and
declared RESOLUTION E05-09-01 passed and approved.
A
revised wording for excess facilities charge was reviewed. All
construction projects exceeding VMEU Service Extension credit will be
paid for in advance and refunded at the rate of 1/120th of construction
costs per month. The Trustees will consider a resolution changing the
excess facilities charge at their next meeting.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve an energy adjustment factor
of 3.35 cents per kWh for May billings. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt received a quote for insulating the block walls of the
distribution building. Alliant is offering an energy efficiency rebate
for insulation. The Trustees asked Ohrt to seek another bid or two.
Manager
Ohrt stated the he and the crews were considering flood measures. Maybe
an alternate site to store poles, wire and transformers. Should have
some sand bags and sand on hand. Will need to set sand bagging
priorities. Should consider the purchase of a portable trash pump. Will
need to store the HESCO barriers. Stanley Consultants & HESCO
representative will review our preliminary plan on May 20th on the set
up of the barriers. FEMA is still considering reimbursement for HESCO
barriers.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Barron to negotiate with each VMEU customer a
rate of payment for excess wind or solar energy that they produce.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve a budget amendment for fiscal
year 2008-2009 in the amount of $5,000,000, for flood recovery expenses
and authorize the secretary to include it with the City’s budget
amendment for public hearing and adoption. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
The general manager’s salary and the clerical wage were briefly reviewed. They will consider this again at their next meeting.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to receive and file the April revenue
and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE $2,026,302.44
REVENUES 350,537.14
EXPENDITURES 781,519.23
TRANSFERS IN 215,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT 255,000.00
ENDING BALANCE $1,555,320.35
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE $1,011,677.29
REVENUES 7.94
TRANSFERS IN 255,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT 215,000.00
ENDING BALANCE $1,051,685.23
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE $750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE $750,000.00
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) The new boiler is being installed. 2) Engine #9 is
done. The Trustees approved issuing the final payment to Monarch before
their next meeting. 3) FEMA does not cover loss of revenue. 4)
Discussion on replacing the current lead man when he retires. 5)
Scheduled personnel vacations. 6) Substation issues and working on the
substation on Monday, May 18th.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes
- All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 7:15 p.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
APRIL 14, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 14th day of April, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Elwick, Kremer, Woodhouse. Absent: Barron. Also
present: Brad Hackett and Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Woodhouse to approve the minutes of the March 10th
meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Kremer to approve the following invoices in the
amount of $1,969,373.00, excluding investments. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Brad
Hackett and Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy gave power plant updates. They
stated control wires have been energized. They have more man power at
the plant. Unit #8 is almost done. Then they will get unit #10 going.
More work needs to be done on #9 jacket water pumps.
Hardy
and Hackett stated that the engineering was not complete when the job
was bid. The cable list was larger than originally thought. The panel
information was not complete. Motion by Anderson, second by Kremer to
approve a change order for ESCO Energy not to exceed $100,000 for
additional scope of work at the power plant. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried. Engine panels were approximately
$62,500 of this change order. ESCO will itemize all additional expenses.
Hackett and Hardy left the meeting at 5:45 p.m..
Motion
by Kremer, second by Anderson to approve an energy adjustment factor of
3 cents per kWh for April billings. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
The
Trustees reviewed energy use at the Braille School. There has been
increased usage since AmeriCorps NCCC arrived on campus last July.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve $20,000 incentive
credit to IBSSS for AmeriCorps electric usage, to be split over April,
May and June this year. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt explained a new energy efficiency plan that would include
refrigerators, freezers and window air conditioners, with a recycling
program. Motion by Kremer, second by Anderson to approve partnering
with Resale Power Group of Iowa in this expanded energy efficiency and
recycling program. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Manager
Ohrt stated that the high school is still considering a wind turbine.
Ohrt will contact ECIREC and Alliant Energy to find out how much they
pay their customers with wind turbines for the excess energy generated
from the turbines.
Manager
Ohrt stated that Readnour will be retiring someday and plans to have
the other three power plant employees do the engine startups in May,
and just have Readnour stand back and observe. Some training classes
may be considered. Ohrt will ask Readnour to document equipment
operations and any special requirements. This will be a good reference
for all personnel at the plant.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to receive and file the audit report for
fiscal year 2007-2008. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Woodhouse to amend the approval an invoice to
Altorfer by withholding 10% until all materials and equipment have been
delivered. The outer casing to the new generator has not yet arrived.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
A
discussion about the utility rates took place. The Trustees asked
Manager Ohrt to do an across the board 15% increase. The new rates will
be published.
The
Trustees would like to have fixed facility charges all paid up front
and manager Ohrt will work on revising the current fixed facility
policy for board approval.
Manager
Ohrt reported that Farabee in working on unit #1. Some parts are
reusable, but two camshafts were substantially damaged. Bearings and
gaskets were also damaged. Motion by Anderson, second by Kremer to
approve an additional $100,000 for replacing damaged parts to unit #1.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
FEMA has not yet informed Manager Ohrt if they will pay for HESCO flood barriers or not.
Manager Ohrt is making sure all flood related invoices get turned into FEMA on a project worksheet.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Woodhouse to approve additional water treatment
equipment for the cooling tower for approximately $2,000. Question: Yes
- All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Kremer to receive and file the March revenue and
expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 1,849,372.90
REVENUES 2,008,193.22
EXPENDITURES 1,894,287.14
TRANSFERS IN 263,023.46
TRANSFERS OUT 200,000.00
ENDING BALANCE 2,026,302.44
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,266,670.14
REVENUES 8,030.61
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 263,023.46
ENDING BALANCE 1,011,677.29
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Elwick
stated he had some safety concerns at the power plant. He would like to
see some training and succession planning done. He would like to see
some improvements in this department.
Secretary
reported City Hall office hours open to the public will be changing to
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. Property and liability insurance premiums are
down slightly. EMC Insurance has made a payment for repairs for flood
damaged vehicles.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Kremer to adjourn the meeting. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 8:02 p.m..
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
MARCH 10, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 10th day of March, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer, Woodhouse. Absent: None.
Also present: Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy, City Coordinator Andy Lent and
Mayor John Watson and Scott Hansen, Benton County Emergency Management.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Anderson to approve the minutes of the February
10th meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Motion
by Kremer, second by Woodhouse to approve the following invoices in the
amount of $2,312,891.02, but withhold 10% retainage from Monarch and
excluding investments. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Motion by Barron, second by Kremer to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Scott
Hansen, Benton County Emergency Management Agency, informed the
Trustees of a State hazard mitigation grant program. The application
deadline for this program has been extended six months. It could be
used for flood barriers.
Chairman
Elwick discussed permanent and temporary flood barrier options. Stanley
Consultants has done a preliminary study. HESCO barriers are temporary
and can be set up fairly quickly. The estimated need is for 2,000 feet
at approximately $70 per foot. Ohrt and Elwick will contact Stanley to
possibly combine a temporary and permanent flood barrier proposals and
then talk with FEMA. Lent reported on houses in the flood buyout
program, near the distribution building. Hansen, Lent and Watson left
the meeting.
Scott
Hardy, ESCO Energy, gave a progress report on the power plant. The Cat
generator container received major damage in shipping but minor damage
to the actual generator. The motor control centers and switch gear are
finally here. A couple pumps were sent back to Janda because they
leaked. The sump pumps are in. Plan to start #8 manually soon. An urge
test will need to be done.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Anderson to approve an energy adjustment factor
of 3.5 cents per kWh for March billings. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Three
bids were reviewed for a new substation transformer. Hardy recommended
the low bid from ABB Inc.. Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to
approve the bid of $498,445 from ABB Inc. with dual voltage for $34,231
and field service of $19,304 options. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried. Ohrt to finalize exactly where the
transformer will sit. A new transformer could be required by as early
as mid 2010 because of transmission line upgrades by the new owner ITC.
The
Trustees reviewed a proposal from Foth Engineering for concrete
flooring at the line distribution building. Foth is waiting for the
results from the soil testing. No action was taken on this. The
existing concrete will be removed soon.
A
partial payment to Geiger Construction for concrete removal at the
distribution building was not approved. Motion by Woodhouse, second by
Anderson to approve paying Geiger upon completion of his work at the
power plant. This should be before the next Trustee meeting. Question:
Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt will seek bids for concrete for the distribution building basement.
Motion
by Anderson, second by Barron to proceed with implementing a 15%
electric utility rate increase. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried. The monthly meter charges will be reviewed
later.
No action was taken to donate to the Iowa Stored Energy Park.
Motion
by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to receive and file the February revenue
and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 1,198,624.39
REVENUES 738,695.98
EXPENDITURES 737,947.47
TRANSFERS IN 650,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,849,372.90
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,716,668.29
REVENUES 1.85
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 450,000.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,266,670.14
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Manager
Ohrt reported on: 1) Energy efficiency and RPGI meetings on March 26th.
2) AlphaGen is looking at a bagging operation. May need a 750 kVa
transformer. Would plan to use the fixed facility charge for this
transformer. 3) ESCO Energy is up to 2,500 man hours so far. 4) The
power plant needs to rent a skid loader. They had been using the street
department’s, but the street department needs it now. 5) State flood
representative, Jim Berg, has finalized the paperwork for last June’s
temporary generation. VMEU should receive the State’s 10% in the near
future.
Secretary
reported that because of the maturity timing of certificates of
deposit, that self insurance funds may be used temporarily for paying
flood repair expenses. These funds should be replaced by this fiscal
year end, as operating and capital improvement reserve certificates of
deposit mature and as FEMA reimbursements come in.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned. Time: 8:50 p.m.
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
February 10, 2009
A regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees
was held on the 10th day of February, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer. Absent: Woodhouse. Also
present: Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy.
Motion by Barron, second by Kremer to approve the minutes of the
January 13th meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the
motion carried.
Motion by Anderson, second by Kremer to approve the following invoices
in the amount of $449,387.58, excluding investments. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Motion by Barron, second by Anderson to approve the agenda. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Tami Stark, Vinton Unlimited, inquired about downtown electrical outlet
usage. The Trustees stated that the outlets on the poles were for the
use by the electric utility and not the merchants.
Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy, updated the Trustees on progress at the power
plant. The motor control center will be here soon. The switch gear will
be shipped Friday. Monarch is almost done with unit #6. All coils have
been delivered. The window on the mezzanine slides the opposite
direction from which it was ordered. Manager Ohrt to seek a 50%
discount for this error or have them supply the correct window. Bids
will be coming for the new generator walk way. New Cat generator to be
shipped February 27th and delivered the first week in March.
The Trustees considered on sight versus off sight repair/overhaul of
unit #1. Motion by Barron, second by Anderson to approve the off sight
complete reconditioning service by Farabee for $76,800.00. Manager Ohrt
to check on the hot oil flush. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Hardy stated the power cables are in. Unit #7 was heated up to 180
degrees, but the generator cables were still wet when taken out.
Barron inquired if there was a power outage, could an emergency circuit
be installed to feed the fire station from the new generator. Hardy
said it depends on the power plant's west station transformer capacity.
The other possibility was installing another transformer to just carry
the fire station.
Motion by Anderson, second by Kremer to approve an energy adjustment
factor of 3.76 cents per kWh for February billings. Question: Yes -
All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
RPGI increased their demand cost $1/kW and Vinton's December kWs were at a record high.
Motion by Kremer, second by Anderson to approve the proposed budget for
FY 2009-2010. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried. Manager Ohrt has added $1,000,000 to replace the south
substation transformer for 69KV and upgrade 34.5 KV line to 69KV.
The Trustees are considering a rate increase for all classifications of
utility customers. Manager Ohrt to prepare information on various rate
increases for the next agenda.
The Trustees discussed FEMA project worksheets. Foth Engineering will
be looking at the line shop basement and support for this building.
Motion by Barron, second by Kremer to authorize Manager Ohrt to seek
bids to remove concrete from basement and to seek bids for new basement
floor and authorize Ohrt to proceed with the lowest responsible bids.
Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Elwick had information from Stanley Consultants about various flood barrier options.
Manager Ohrt will attend an energy efficiency meeting in Ankeny on March 26th.
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to receive and file the January
revenue and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 1,525,431.05
REVENUES 254,453.86
EXPENDITURES 681,260.52
TRANSFERS IN 100,000.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,198,624.39
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,816,665.06
REVENUES 3.23
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 100,000.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,716,668.29
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
The Trustees discussed flood mitigation planning. Motion by Anderson,
second by Barron to approve hiring Stanley Consultants to do flood
mitigation planning, not to exceed $10,300.00. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Barron stated that the fire department is considering to apply to have
the state fire convention in Vinton in 2013. He asked if VMEU would
again help with electrical needs at the fair grounds. The Trustees
approved this request.
Manager Ohrt reported on: 1) He has the permit for the new generator.
2) He has requested an advance from FEMA for the new boiler.
Motion by Kremer, second by Barron to adjourn the meeting. Question:
Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried. Time: 7:45 p.m..
Michael G. Elwick, Chairman Attest: Cindy Michael, Secretary
VINTON MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY BOARD MEETING
January 13, 2009
A
regular meeting of the Vinton Municipal Electric Board of Trustees was
held on the 13th day of January, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., at the Line
Distribution Office, Vinton, Iowa. Chairman Elwick presided and the
roll being called the following board members were present and absent:
Present: Anderson, Barron, Elwick, Kremer, Woodhouse. Absent: None.
John Anderson was reappointed to the Board of Trustees, for a six year
term, at the Vinton City Council meeting on January 8th. Also present
were Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy and Mike McKenna and Mike Helms, Stanley
Consultants.
Motion by Anderson, second by Barron to approve the
minutes of the December 9th meeting. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
Motion by Kremer, second by Woodhouse to approve the following invoices
in the amount of $678,414.48, excluding a Fletcher Reinhardt invoice
that was entered twice and excluding investments. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
AIRGAS NORTH CENTRAL chemicals 72.40
ALCO scrip certificates 465.00
ALLEN FILTERS INC filter elements 6,573.46
ALLIANT UTILITIES utilities 5,443.75
ALTEC INDUSTRIES circuit breaker, labor 696.77
AMERICORPS NATIONAL CIVIL contribution, economic develop 30,000.00
APACHE HOSE & BELTING CO hose, crimping 158.86
AUDITOR STATE OF IOWA filing fee 156.25
B & B TRANSFORMER INC transformers 25,950.00
CEDAR RAPIDS TRUCK CENTER repairs 5,645.63
CEDAR RIVER INK office supplies 29.00
CENTRAL STATES GROUP lube oil pump 545.19
CGS TECHNOLOGY INC power panel, software 247.97
CITY LAUNDERING CO. towel service 98.67
CITY OF VINTON utilities, scrip certificates 2,605.86
COMPRESSED AIR & EQUIP travel, mileage 109.18
DAKOTA TRANSFORMER transformer repairs 7,755.00
DECO TOOL SUPPLY CO repair parts 4,821.80
EHLINGER'S VINTON EXPRESS scrip certificates 135.00
ESCO ELECTRIC flood repairs 94,225.34
ESCO ENERGY SERVICES CO flood repairs 112,872.75
FARABEE MECHANICAL INC flood repairs 74,650.00
FAREWAY STORES INC. scrip certificates, options rebates 2,435.00
FARM PLAN parts, supplies 1,633.07
FAST STOP fuel 61.87
FLETCHER REINHARDT CO. transformers, meters 25,367.29
FOTH INFRASTRUCTURE AND engineering 3,200.00
G & G AUTO PARTS parts 205.32
GENERAL FUND contribution 12,718.81
GRAINGER maintenance supplies 244.51
IAMU meeting 25.00
IOWA ONE CALL locate service 15.00
IOWA UTILITIES BOARD assessment 463.98
ITRON software maintenance 767.70
JANDA MOTOR SERVICES motor/pump repairs 16,155.75
JOHN'S QWIK STOP fuel 50.97
JOHN'S TIRE SERVICE repair 16.00
KARR LLC office supplies 193.13
LENNY GEIGER CONSTRUCT office remodel 12,163.00
MCDOWELLS lumber, supplies 1,192.04
MOEDING, KURT supplies 60.38
NICK'S TV & APPLIANCE phone supplies 69.90
NORTHERN SAFETY CO. INC. supplies 249.87
OHRT ENTERPRISES mileage 37.44
PAYROLL ACCOUNT insurance 7,342.61
QWEST telecommunications 180.04
READNOUR, RON mileage 43.47
REFUND TO: overpayments 139.66
RESALE POWER GROUP OF IA purchased power, energy certs 184,867.83
SCHIMBERG CO. parts 1,377.19
SENECA COMPANIES power wash oil tanks 3,635.50
SOPER ENGINEERING & SUPP parts, supplies 129.41
TERRY DURIN CO. parts, supplies 265.94
TREASURER STATE OF IOWA tax 14,884.00
TYLER TECHNOLOGIES software maintenance 1,393.05
TYNDALE COMPANY INC supplies 1,741.05
US BANK meals, fuel, lodging, parts 793.64
US CELLULAR telecommunications 93.45
VAN METER COMPANY elements,thermostat, heaters 10,083.04
VINTON AUTO PARTS INC. repair parts 101.37
VINTON PLUMBING & HEATING water heater 280.00
VINTON POST OFFICE postage 42.00
WASTE MANAGEMENT flood clean up 341.37
WAYNE'S REPAIR battery 95.95
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve the agenda. Question:
Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Mike McKenna and Mike Helms, Stanley Consultants, discussed temporary
and permanent flood barrier options. Permanent barriers require
studies, they take longer and are more costly. Grant applications could
be done. HESCO barriers are temporary. Delivery time is about 45 days.
Scott Hardy, ESCO Energy, reported that the demolition is nearly
complete. Cables are ready for installation. The steel work has been
started. The MCC is to be shipped Jan. 23rd. The new CAT generator is
scheduled to be here Feb. 20th.
The Trustees discussed the Monarch change order with Hardy. Elwick
asked for clarification on the asbestos abatement. The general
consensus was to approve the change order, pending the clarification of
the asbestos abatement, and without the markup on unit #7.
Hardy continued with preliminary cost estimates for SCADA and
automation repairs. The Trustees asked him to confer with Manager Ohrt
on these items.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Kremer to approve an energy adjustment
factor of 2.5 cents per kWh for January billings. Question: Yes - All.
The Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt reported inventory of 17 Christmas decorations for W 4th Street, only needing 15.
Motion by Barron, second by Anderson to approve hiring ESCO Energy to
do specifications for a new substation transformer, not to exceed
$5,000.00. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman declared the motion
carried.
Motion by Anderson, second by Barron authorize Manager Ohrt to go with
the low bids for constructing a MCC room. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried. The anticipated total costs are
approximately $25,000.00. This does not include air conditioning, an
electrical panel or lighting.
No action was taken to build a mezzanine over the new air compressors at this time.
The Trustees reviewed power usage of AmeriCorps.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to approve remodeling the board
room, with costs not to exceed $4,000.00. Question: Yes - All. The
Chairman declared the motion carried.
Manager Ohrt reviewed a proposed budget for fiscal year 2009-2010. The
Trustees asked him to delete some capital outlays and check the
revenues to make sure the EAF was where it should be. The proposed FY
09-10 budget will be considered again at the February meeting.
Motion by Woodhouse, second by Barron to receive and file the December
revenue and expenditure report. Question: Yes - All. The Chairman
declared the motion carried.
ELECTRIC FUND
OPENING BALANCE 1,626,594.15
REVENUES 377,512.97
EXPENDITURES 424,778.07
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 53,898.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,525,431.05
ELECTRIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 1,816,592.16
REVENUES 72.90
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 1,816,665.06
ELECTRIC SELF INSURANCE RESERVE
OPENING BALANCE 750,000.00
REVENUES 0.00
TRANSFERS IN 0.00
TRANSFERS OUT 0.00
ENDING BALANCE 750,000.00
Manager Ohrt reported on: 1) Energy efficiency programs. 2) New Ameren
contract. 3) Tier 2 changes coming. 4) Seeking bids for leaking roof at
power plant. 5) Electric usage for downtown Christmas lights.
Secretary reported that because of all the flood related expenses now
coming due, the electric operating cash will be running short. More
FEMA flood reimbursements are anticipated. There is a certificate of
deposit that matures in February. The capital improvement reserve has
funds available. General consensus was to temporarily use capital
improvement funds until the certificate of deposit matures and/or more
FEMA funds are received.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned. Time: 8:40 p.m..
Michael G. Elwick, Chairman Attest: Cindy Michael, Secretary
