Category: Finance Committee Minutes

For your consideration, please read the minutes from the Finance Meeting held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

Finance Minutes 04-16-2025 with Attachments

To read the minutes, please open or download the pdf from the link above, or you may see more below.

 

FINANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES

 

MEMBERS PRESENT:         

Commissioner Clayton Watson, Committee Chairman

Commissioner Chuck Cook

Commissioner Bill Edgy

Executive Director Andrew Burroughs

                                               

ALSO PRESENT:                  

Ben Turnipseed, Commission Chairman

Charles A. Dorminy, HBS Legal Counsel

LaDonnah Roberts, Deputy Executive Director

David Owens, Director of Finance

Pam Crosby, Director of Procurement

Frances Wilson, Accounting Manager

Christa Free, Procurement Coordinator

Trevor Peters, Thomas & Hutton

Jeff Wiggins, Hoyer Investment Company

 

MEDIA PRESENT:                None

                                               

Committee Chairman Watson called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

Commissioner Watson opened the Public Comment Period.  There being no citizens that wished to address the Committee, Commissioner Watson closed the Public Comment Period.

 

APPROVAL

1. Minutes from March 19, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy to approve the minutes from the March 19, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting.  Motion carried 3-0.

 

2. Agreement with HIC Altama, LLC – A. Burroughs / C. Dorminy

Mr. Burroughs explained that this is an agreement to purchase 20 acres of property adjacent to Exit 42. Hoyer HIC Altama owns the property on the northwest quadrant at Exit 42, and BGJWSC is acquiring 20 acres in the northeast corner of that northwest quadrant.

HIC Altama is also making a lot of onsite improvements. JWSC approached them about whether they would be interested in selling property. As part of that discussion, JWSC also requested that they install larger diameter gravity sewer in the direction of the new wastewater treatment plant so that work would not have to be done twice. Currently they are in the process of installing that gravity sewer in a temporary pump station to pump it back out to the Highway 99 right-of-way, which is where they would have flowed their sewer had the new plant not been under consideration there. The force main from that temporary pump station is being routed all the way to Shell Road to tie into the force main for Pump Station 4118. This agreement is for the property and for the increase in infrastructure costs for the request JWSC made above and beyond what would be required for their own site development. In addition, there are future provisions for HIC Altama to do additional work in the event they need additional capacity before JWSC can get the treatment plant online, which is downstream or upstream work at Pump Station 4119, located at Golden Isles Parkway and Highway 99, in order to facilitate additional growth.

HIC Altama will receive capital fee credit for onsite use for the value of property and infrastructure. For that, they intend to build approximately 2,000 residential homes, then commercial and multifamily development near Highway 99. That value is estimated at approximately $5 million. If the value of the credits exceeds what they need onsite, they will then be able to recoup the remainder of their investment in a 70/30 split for connection fees that utilize the assets they installed. The term of the agreement is the later of 15 years from the execution of this Agreement or five years following the completion of the wastewater plant.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend that the full Commission approve entering into an agreement with HIC Altama, LLC for 20 acres of property and additional infrastructure improvements for enhanced water and wastewater services along and near Highway 99 and Exit 42. Motion carried 3-0.

 

3. FY2026 Organizational Budget – A. Burroughs

The proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget was presented by Mr. Burroughs via a PowerPoint package. He explained that the budget was formulated with three goals in mind. First, he stressed that JWSC wants to maintain affordability for our customers despite rising costs. Second, JWSC is constantly trying to reinvest in our system, so project funding is being increased so that JWSC can rehab assets. Additionally, JWSC takes steps, such as updating some of our technologies, as we continuously strive to improve our operational efficiencies.

 

Highlights of the presentation include the following: 1. JWSC is not requesting a rate adjustment to customer usage fees for next year, 2. Repair and Replacement Reserve funding is being increased, which is the funding source for the majority of JWSC’s capital projects, and 3. Several general ledger accounts are being combined or eliminated as a result of recent reorganization of the Wastewater Division coupled with a planned reorganization of the Water Division. The proposed budget is $39,835,000, which is a 2.32% increase over last year’s budget.

 

Mr. Burroughs provided an explanation of both the revenues and expenses, operational and capital, as well as the percentages of each that are attributed to each department. He provided a comparison of JWSC proposed customer usage rates to the rates of neighboring and similar utilities to demonstrate the affordability of JWSC’s services. A line-item budget was provided to the Commissioners and is available online.

Commissioner Edgy made a motion seconded by Commissioner Cook that the Finance Committee recommend that the full Commission take the following actions: (1) approve submission of the Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 JWSC Budget to the City of Brunswick and to Glynn County for their review and comment, and (2) approve the Fiscal Year 2026 JWSC Budget in the amount of $39,835,000 subject to revisions resulting from comments received from the City of Brunswick and/or Glynn County. Motion carried 3-0.

 

4. Appointment of Auditor – D. Owens

Mr. Owens explained that in Fiscal Year 2024, the JWSC issued a Request for Proposal for Auditing Services. The firm Mauldin & Jenkins was selected for the initial year ending June 30, 2024, with two optional renewal years. The fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, will be the final option year. Cost for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, would be $25,400.

 Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend that the full Commission approve the engagement of the accounting firm of Mauldin & Jenkins to perform the financial audit of the Brunswick-Glynn Joint Water and Sewer Commission for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 at a cost of twenty-five thousand four hundred ($25,400.00) dollars.  Motion carried 3-0.

 

5. Contract Award – FEMA Fixed Generator Installations – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs stated that this project was originally funded with a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant that was awarded in 2020. Funding was awarded for the purchase of eight fixed generators as well as installation of those generators. JWSC made the decision to purchase the generators immediately due to extended lead times for those generators, as long as 84 weeks. The cost for those generators was $1,251,973.59.

 

The item currently being presented for the Board’s consideration is a contract to install those generators. The low bid received was from Popco, Inc. in the amount of $4,905,080. The sum of the purchased generators and the proposed installation contract will exceed the funding provided by the FEMA grant. JWSC will pursue a budget adjustment with FEMA for that overage. However, if that overage cannot be funded with additional FEMA funds, JWSC could fund that overage with uncommitted funds in the Repair and Replacement Reserve.

Commissioner Edgy made a motion seconded by Commissioner Cook that the Finance Committee recommend awarding a contract to Popco, Inc. for the installation of eight (8) fixed generators in the amount of $4,905,080.00.  Motion carried 3-0.

 

6. GEFA Loan Modification – L. Roberts

Mrs. Roberts reminded the Board that JWSC had been granted a loan in 2019 by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority. That loan was through GEFA’s State Revolving Fund under their Clean Water programs. The original loan amount was, and has remained, $15 million at a rate of 2.38% for 30 years. The project covered by that loan involved various work at the Academy Creek Water Pollution Control Facility as well as in parts of the JWSC gravity sewer system. Due to labor and materials delays, during and following COVID, on the Academy Creek WPCF work, the gravity sewer system work had a delayed start. As a result, it has become necessary to request a time extension from GEFA in the form of a Loan Modification. This modification is for a time extension to April 1, 2026, only, and no other provisions of the loan will change.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend that the full Commission approve the modification for time extension for GEFA Loan CW2019008 in the form of the attached Resolution.  Motion carried 3-0.

 

7. Cityworks ELA Renewal – A. Burroughs

Cityworks is the software program that is utilized by JWSC for asset management and work order management. Mr. Burroughs explained that the software is a cloud-based program that is utilized under an Enterprise License Agreement or ELA. The ELA must be renewed each year. This year, there is a 5% price increase over the previous year. This brings the total cost to $51,046.63. The cost for this software is divided among the various JWSC divisions that utilize the software, based on the number of user licenses allocated to each division.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Brunswick-Glynn Joint Water and Sewer Commission approve the renewal of the Fiscal Year 2026 Cityworks Enterprise License Agreement with Azteca Systems, LLC in the amount of $51,046.63. Motion carried 3-0.

 

8. Neptune 360 Renewal – L. Roberts

This renewal is also an annual software contract for cloud-based software. Mrs. Roberts explained that this software is utilized in conjunction with the new Neptune smart meters that were installed in the recent systemwide meter change-out project. This Software as a Service (SaaS) package is essential to the JWSC’s daily meter reading, billing and customer service functions. It utilizes the AWS platform, which provides needed security and redundancy. The annual billing is processed through Neptune’s distributor Delta Municipal Supply who was the general contractor for the meter change-out project. The annual cost is based on the number of active meter endpoints.

Commissioner Edgy made a motion seconded by Commissioner Cook that the Finance Committee recommend that the full Commission authorize payment of the annual subscription for the Neptune 360 software to Delta Municipal Supply, Inc. in the amount of $67,685.24. Motion carried 3-0.

 

DISCUSSION

1. Financial Statements Month End March 31, 2025 – F. Wilson

Mrs. Wilson presented the financial statements for the month ending March 31, 2025. She reviewed the Balance Sheet noting the Current Assets and Current Liabilities and briefed the Committee on the Combined Revenue Statement.  The various Operating Revenues accounts were noted, and details on the Summary of Revenues and Summary of Expenses were highlighted.  Mrs. Wilson briefly reviewed line items on the Cash Balances and the Project Report.

2. MyUsage Customer Water Usage Portal – Commissioner Cook

Commissioner Cook and Mrs. Roberts provided a brief presentation on the free water usage portal that is available to JWSC customers, MyUsage. Commissioner Cook gave an overview of the software and its functionality, including the ability for customers to set notifications via text or email.

Mrs. Roberts showed samples of the data that is available to customers through the portal, as well as sample text and email notifications. She provided the web address of www.goldenisleslepc.org/myusage as the page customers should visit to enroll or find additional information.

 

Commissioner Watson asked if there was any further business to discuss. Hearing none, Commissioner Watson entertained a motion to adjourn, then adjourned the meeting at 4:18 p.m.

 

For your consideration, please read the minutes from the Finance Meeting held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

Finance Minutes 03-19-2025 with Attachments

To read the minutes, please open or download the pdf from the link above, or you may see more below.

Brunswick-Glynn Joint Water & Sewer Commission
1703 Gloucester Street, Brunswick, GA 31520
Commission Meeting Room
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM

FINANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES

MEMBERS PRESENT: Commissioner Clayton Watson, Committee Chairman
Commissioner Chuck Cook
Executive Director Andrew Burroughs

ABSENT: Commissioner Bill Edgy

ALSO PRESENT: Ben Turnipseed, Commission Chairman
LaDonnah Roberts, Deputy Executive Director
David Owens, Director of Finance
Pam Crosby, Director of Procurement
Christa Free, Procurement Coordinator
Fred McGinty, Oakbridge Insurance

MEDIA PRESENT: None
Committee Chairman Watson called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Commissioner Watson opened the Public Comment Period. There being no citizens that wished to address the Committee, Commissioner Watson closed the Public Comment Period.

APPROVAL

1. Minutes from February 19, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting
Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Watson to approve the minutes from the February 19, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting. Motion carried 2-0-0.

2. FY26 Property and Liability Insurance Renewal – A. Burroughs/F. McGinty
Mr. Burroughs explained that BGJWSC’s insurance coverage is under a suite of coverage packages with multiple carriers that is updated around this time every year. The two main pieces are the property insurance and the liability package, which includes auto liability. JWSC saw a fairly significant jump in the liability package, almost a 20% increase, which was mostly offset by a reduction in the property package, a 4% reduction. Total cost increase this year is $9,154, for a total premium for the six lines of coverage of $724,386. A summary sheet was provided that included the different coverages and limits that JWSC has, as well as a detailed proposal provided by Mr. Fred McGinty with Oakbridge Insurance. The information provided included the automobile schedules, property schedules, etc. Mr. Burroughs introduced Mr. McGinty and opened the floor for questions.

Commissioner Watson posed some questions related to automobile coverages and deductibles. He and Mr. McGinty discussed various options, and Mr. McGinty offered to bring additional information to the Commission meeting on March 20.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Watson that the Finance Committee recommend that the full Commission approve insurance renewal rates for each coverage category and insurer as listed in the attached 2025 Property and Liability Insurance Premium Summary. Motion carried 2-0-0.

3. Contract Award – SPLOST Exit 29 WPF & EST – Div 2 – A. Burroughs
Mr. Burroughs reminded the Board that in January 2025 JWSC awarded bids for Division 1 and Division 3 of this project. The work was bid as three separate Divisions. Division 1 was a conversion of a fire well into a water production facility through the addition of treatment chemicals and a ground storage tank. Division 3 was for some distribution system improvements to loop some neighborhoods more effectively and stop them from being single-fed. Division 2 is for the construction of a 500,000 gallon elevated storage tank. When JWSC bid all three together, no bids were received for Division 2. Initially, JWSC allowed for three different styles of water tanks to be included. When the work was rebid, JWSC narrowed it down to just the composite style tank, and two bids were received. Bids were received on March 6, 2025. The low bid was from Landmark Structures at $7,767,000 for the construction of Division 2. Thomas & Hutton, the Engineer of Record, had a $9.6 million Opinion of Probable Cost on Division 2. This will, if awarded, consume the bulk of the remaining Tier One SPLOST funds awarded at SPLOST 2022. There will be $361,942 uncommitted for SPLOST 2022 funding for Tier One. A letter of recommendation to award this contract to Landmark Structures from Thomas & Hutton is attached to the memo, as well as a bid tab. A mathematical error was discovered in the Caldwell Tanks bid. That was adjusted, but it did not impact who the low bid was on the contract.
Considering the values of this item plus item three on our agenda (construction phase services contract for this work and the other two divisions), if both contracts are awarded at the values shown, JWSC will exceed the allotted SPLOST Tier One funds. JWSC does have the potential for, if collected, an additional $2 million in SPLOST Tier Two funding from Glynn County, if collected, which appears likely. The BGJWSC logo will be displayed on at least one side of the tank, and it will be visible from I-95.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Watson that the Finance Committee recommend awarding a contract to Landmark Structures, LLC in the amount of $7,767,000.00 for Division 2 of the Exit 29 Water Production Facility & Elevated Storage Tank project. Motion carried 2-0-0.

4. Contract Award – SPLOST Exit 29 WPF & EST Construction Phase Svcs. – A. Burroughs
On April 20, 2023, JWSC awarded a contract for design, engineering and bid preparation to Thomas & Hutton for engineering services for the SPLOST Exit 29 Water Production Facility and Elevated Storage Tank project. Mr. Burroughs stated that, at that time, a percentage of construction cost was requested for the construction phase services, such as submittal reviews, and payout reviews as well as onsite observation of the construction. Thomas & Hutton’s percentage at the time of that RFP was 3%. However, at the time of that solicitation, the project was intended and written into the RFP as being awarded under one contract. Since this work is now separated into three separate contracts with three separate vendors, Thomas & Hutton has requested an adjustment to 3.8%, as allowed by their engineering contract, for the construction phase services. Based on the total cost of the project being $12,825,011, 3.8% of that is $487,350. JWSC did have to re-bid Division 2 as previously described, and there were some permitting fees that were not included in the original proposal. The total cost, including the rebid and the permitting fees, for this request is $493,608. Again, this would commit all of the Tier One funding and $131,666 of the Tier Two SPLOST funding.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Watson that the Finance Committee recommend awarding a contract to Thomas & Hutton in the amount of $493,608 for construction phase services for the Exit 29 Water Production Facility & Elevated Storage Tank project. Motion carried 2-0-0.

5. Contract Award – Academy Creek WCPF Sludge Dryer Repairs – A. Burroughs
JWSC operates a Fenton sludge dryer at Academy Creek. Mr. Burroughs explained that Fenton is no longer in business, so JWSC is unable to buy a Fenton dryer. Trying to find parts has been very challenging, and with the improvements JWSC is making at Academy Creek, significant stress has been put on the dryer that previously was not placed upon it. JWSC has run into some issues with some bearings and related items at the site. When the dryer runs it will run some solids up to about 95% solids before taking it to the landfills, versus 15 to 18% coming off the belt presses. The landfills have certain limitations related to permitting that limit the volume of wet sludge that they can accept from JWSC.
There is one company, AIT Services, Inc. that is operated by one of the original designers of the Fenton sludge dryer. JWSC cannot locate parts from any other provider, so JWSC requested a quote from AIT Services to provide parts and labor to repair the dryer.

Mr. Burroughs noted that a correction is needed in the second paragraph under Staff Report. The $139k number does not include expediting one of the parts to shorten the timeframe. That amount is for the parts for the sprocket. It would cost approximately $8,000 to expedite the part so that JWSC can get the dryer back online sooner. For AIT Services to provide the parts and labor then completely rehab the dryer with new bearings, new sprockets and swivels, the cost would be $147,200.68. Considering the difference in hauling costs when the dryer is running, this investment would have a two-month payback. JWSC is running over 100 tons a month through the landfill right now. Saving 75% of the cost of 100 tons a month adds up quickly. Staff is evaluating the potential of adding a second dryer, but that would be a longer-term decision.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend a contract award in the amount of $147,200.68 to AIT Services, Inc. for the rehab of the Academy Creek sludge dryer. Motion carried 2-0-0.

6. USGS Joint Funding Agreement – A. Burroughs
For several years BGJWSC has been entering into a joint funding agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey to monitor groundwater in the Upper Floridan Aquifer to determine the saltwater intrusion and the migration of chlorides throughout the Aquifer. Mr. Burroughs explained this is key for long-term planning for the existing JWSC wells. Also, as growth continues this helps JWSC to understand how the saltwater plume is being shifted relative to JWSC’s existing wells. The Perry Park well had to be closed several years ago, but so far none of JWSC’s other wells have been impacted. although the Brunswick Villas well is very near the plume location. With Pinova closing, some shifting of the plume has been observed. The plume appears to be concentrating a little bit closer to the Brunswick Cellulose property but this is not unexpected given the withdrawal rates they have. USGS’s work includes real-time monitoring. JWSC can go online and pull up the data on the well sites “24/7”. Also, there are additional samples that are taken throughout the year.

So, this is a key contract for JWSC. This expenditure is funded out of the Office of the Director’s operations budget, and sufficient budget exists to fund this year’s agreement. The Board was presented with a ten-year snapshot of what JWSC has spent in the past. Due to increases in costs that USGS is incurring to provide the services, the proposed amount for the contract has increased for the upcoming year. USGS is increasing their allotment by $5,000 and JWSC is increasing its allotment by $5,000 as well. Mr. Burroughs also indicated that there were other parties that provided funding for this work. For JWSC, this is an $85,000 joint funding agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey.
Mr. Burroughs referenced the written agreement containing descriptive information about the project. He also stated that he could invite Mr. Greg Cherry from USGS to prepare a presentation if the Board wishes for the USGS to present some data and results.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend the full Commission enter into a Joint Funding Agreement with USGS in the amount of $85,000 for the continuation of groundwater monitoring in the Upper Floridan aquifer. Motion carried 2-0-0.

DISCUSSION

1. FY2026 Organizational Budget Request – A. Burroughs
Mr. Burroughs reminded the Board that he presents a draft budget request to the Finance Committee each year in March to solicit their feedback and recommendations. Staff will then incorporate the applicable revisions, then return to the Finance Committee, and subsequently the full Commission, in April for approval. He presented the Committee with a PowerPoint document that is summarized below.

Budget Goals
Maintain Affordability Despite Rising Costs
Increase Project Funding Due to Rising Construction Costs
Improve Operational Efficiency

Budget Overview
FY2026 Budget Request Total – $39.83M
FY2025 Budget Total – $39.893M
Budget Request Increase – 2.32%

FY2026 Budget Highlights
No Rate Adjustment Requested
Repair and Replacement Reserve Funding Increase
Combined Group Expense Accounts

Revenue Highlights
Customer Growth Remains Strong
Usage Revenue Increases Are Account Driver
Removed Rental Income from Board of Elections Sale
Customer Bill Affordability Compared to Other Utilities

Expense Highlights
Total Staff Count Decreased (154=>152)
Budget Includes 2.3% COLA and Potential Merit Increases
Combined Two Divisions to Form Wastewater Division
Combined Two Divisions to Form Water Division

Budget Increases
Repair and Replacement Reserve Funding Increase
Banking and Investment Fees
Capital Purchases of Machinery and Equipment

Budget Decreases
Interest Expense
Capital Leases
Chemical Costs Following UV Equipment Installation

Additionally, Mr. Burroughs reminded the Board of the BGJWSC Core Values and FY2026 Operational Priorities. Budget requests are also intertwined with these.

2. Financial Statement Month End February 28, 2025 – D. Owens Mr. Owens presented the financial statement for the month ending February 28, 2025. He reviewed the Balance Sheet noting the Current Assets and Current Liabilities and briefed the Committee on the Combined Revenue Statement. The various Operating Revenues accounts were noted, and details on the Summary of Revenues and Summary of Expenses were highlighted. Mr. Owens briefly reviewed line items on the Cash Balances and the Project Report.

Commissioner Watson asked if there was any further business to discuss.
Commissioner Watson adjourned the meeting at 4:18 p.m.

For your consideration, please read the minutes from the Finance Meeting held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

Finance Minutes 02-19-2025 with Attachments

To read the minutes, please open or download the pdf from the link above, or you may see more below.

 

Brunswick-Glynn Joint Water & Sewer Commission

1703 Gloucester Street, Brunswick, GA 31520

Commission Meeting Room

Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM

 

FINANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES

 

MEMBERS PRESENT:         

Commissioner Clayton Watson, Committee Chairman

Commissioner Chuck Cook

Commissioner Bill Edgy

Executive Director Andrew Burroughs

                                               

ALSO PRESENT:                  

Ben Turnipseed, Commission Chairman

Charles A. Dorminy, HBS Legal Counsel

LaDonnah Roberts, Deputy Executive Director

Frances Wilson, Accounting Manager

Pam Crosby, Director of Procurement

Michele Schwartz, Executive Administrative Coord.

Trevor Peters, Thomas & Hutton

Mason Cloy, Hoyer Investment Company

 

MEDIA PRESENT:                None

                                               

Committee Chairman Watson called the meeting to order at 3:04 p.m.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

Commissioner Watson opened the Public Comment Period.  There being no citizens that wished to address the Committee, Commissioner Watson closed the Public Comment Period.

 

APPROVAL

1. Minutes from December 18, 2024, Finance Committee Meeting

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Watson to approve the minutes from the December 18, 2024, Finance Committee Meeting.  Motion carried 3-0-0.

 

2. Contract Award – Community Road Area Water and Sewer Extensions – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs described that the project area is bound by Altama Avenue to the east and Habersham to the west. It’s a commercial district that currently has water access but does need some water improvements to improve flows in the area. The area currently does not have access to sewer. Mr. Kline displayed the project area on the GIS system. Mr. Burroughs continued by saying that the project will put in pressure sewer force mains and allow service to every lot, indicating there are 120 parcels in this project area. The customers will have to install a grinder station on their site in order to connect, and customers will be responsible for paying the appropriate fees, but JWSC will make the service available. Through a competitive bidding process JWSC received four bids on February 11, 2025, with the low bid being from UWS Inc. UWS is finalizing the Arco project and is ready to subsequently begin work on this project. The Engineer of Record, Hussey Gay Bell, provided a bid tabulation and a recommendation to award to UWS at the total cost of $3,057,807.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend awarding a contract for the construction of the Community Road Area Water and Sewer Extension Project to UWS, Inc., in the amount of $3,057,807.00.  Motion carried 3-0-0.

 

3. Change Order No. 6 – Dunbar Creek WPCF Rehab – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs provided that the rehabilitation project at this location is ongoing. During this project, there have been five change orders to date, which are listed in the memo. This Change Order No. 6 is a two-part change order, one of which is a reduction in scope of the previously proposed paving for the project. The value of that scope reduction is $140,592.11. However, the addition is to include chemical storage, pumping and piping necessary for the removal of phosphorus from the facility. This would be an addition of alum and liquid lime storage tanks. These tanks have a seven-day hold time as well as the ability to pump into two different locations for treatment purposes. The cost to include the new chemical treatments is $521,450, for the combined net cost of this change order being $380,857.89. The longest lead time item is 12 to 16 weeks from approval of the change order.

Commissioner Edgy made a motion seconded by Commissioner Cook that the Finance Committee recommend the full Commission approve Change Order No. 6 in the amount of $380,857.89 to BRW Construction Group, LLC for scope changes associated with the Dunbar Creek WPCF Rehab project. Motion carried 3-0-0.

 

4. Equipment Purchase – Academy Creek Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs stated that staff is recommending the purchase of six dissolved oxygen monitoring probes for Academy Creek to replace the three existing units. The three are in stage one of the each of the aeration basins and we’re requesting to replace those three as they are fouling considerably. Staff must constantly pull them up, then clean them off for proper operation. Staff will also put monitors in stage four as well on the effluent side of the aeration basins to ensure that D.O. set points are accurate. He explained that oxygen is the largest non-personnel related item in JWSC’s annual budget, which emphasizes the importance of proper monitoring and control. The cost to purchase the six probes and accompanying equipment is $35,350.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend the full Commission approve the purchase of the D.O. monitoring probes and associated equipment from CL2 Solutions, LLC. in the amount of $35,350.  Motion carried 3-0-0.

 

5. Agreement with HIC Altama, LLC – A. Burroughs

HIC Altama is the Hoyer Investment Company. HIC Altama owns the northwest corner of Exit 42. Hoyer owns several acres in the area with plans for a large mixed-use development with single family residential, multifamily residential, and commercial parcels. JWSC approached HIC about potentially acquiring property from them to construct a new wastewater treatment plant at Exit 42. JWSC got the property surveyed, and the parties signed an MOU in 2023 for just over 16 acres in the northeast corner of the northwest corner of Hoyer’s property. While doing that, Hoyer brought forth an idea. Initially, they could, for the first several phases of their property, gravity flow their sewer back out to Highway 99 to the right-of-way to connect to the existing gravity system that services Highway 99, which eventually goes under the interstate, and ties back into Pump Station 4118 at the end of Shell Road. Rather than Hoyer installing smaller diameter gravity sewer, that JWSC would have remove and reroute upon construction of the new wastewater plant, the parties discussed Hoyer installing larger diameter gravity towards the proposed plant site. Hoyer would not install everything to the full plant, only what they need for their current phases of their development. That will be 24-inch gravity sewer, which is of sufficient size for the new plant. Also, Hoyer is putting in a temporary pump station to pump their flow to Highway 99, that they would not be required to put in should they have gravity to Highway 99. These are the onsite improvements.

What is being presented is an agreement for Hoyer to receive credit in Capital Improvement Fees. The amount of that credit would equal the difference in cost between what would have been required for onsite versus what JWSC has requested that Hoyer install to accommodate the new wastewater plant, as well as for the value of the property. With potential future phases, as they come online with more housing and commercial development up there, the second thing Hoyer would do offsite is to install a parallel force main along the existing gravity main that receives the flow from Pump Station 4119. That force main terminates at the manhole that Hoyer would have been gravity flowing into anyway. Hoyer would be installing a force main along the existing gravity route and tying into the existing 4119 force main. That force main will run all the way to the existing 4118 force main where it will manifold in. As part of that manifold process, Hoyer will install valves so when the new plant is online, that valve can be closed and Pump Station 4118, at the end of Shell Road, can then be reversed back to the new wastewater treatment facility. That opens additional capacity in the North Mainland district, not for Hoyer, but for other developments that are planned along the line. A future phase that they will be considering is to install a parallel force main along the existing 4119 force main to free up additional capacity along Highway 99 in that pump station should development timing outpace plant construction timelines. Fourth, Hoyer can upgrade Pump Station 4119 should the timing of development outpace plant construction timelines. Representatives from Hoyer and Thomas & Hutton, who is the engineer for Hoyer, were present at the meeting. Thomas & Hutton’s Preliminary Engineering Report was provided in digital form for the Board’s review.

The agreement provides Hoyer with credit for dollars spent in accordance with the JWSC purchasing policy for the amount above what is required for Hoyer’s onsite development, the value of the property. Then, as the future phases come online of the project, credit for that as it is completed. Hoyer would provide JWSC with those invoices for guarantees. If, for whatever reason, Hoyer receives more credit than they need for onsite, they will receive 70% of tap fees that utilize the new infrastructure for a period of up to five years, or until Hoyer’s reimbursement is received, whichever happens sooner.

JWSC has entered into a few of this type of agreements in the past. This one is different because JWSC approached Hoyer with the proposal for a mutually beneficial project for Hoyer and the entire Highway 99 corridor. Essentially, Hoyer is going to front money for the projects and, as a result, they get capital improvement fee credit for their onsite needs. Mr. Peters, with Thomas & Hutton, can explain the projects in much greater detail should you have any additional questions. This has been a good working relationship we’ve had between staff, the developer, and Thomas & Hutton. JWSC can secure this property, get this new infrastructure installed and be well on our way to a new wastewater treatment facility that will service the entire Exit 42 and Highway 99 corridor for many years to come.

Before a motion was made staff reported that, in an earlier meeting that day, the Facilities Committee recommended increasing the parcel size to 20 acres.

Commissioner Cook made a motion seconded by Commissioner Edgy that the Finance Committee recommend the full Commission enter into an agreement with HIC Altama, LLC for 20 acres of property and additional infrastructure improvements for enhanced water and wastewater services along and near Highway 99 and Exit 42. Motion carried 3-0-0.

 

DISCUSSION

1. Paperless Billing – Commissioner Cook

Commissioner Cook reminded customers about the availability of paperless billing. He stated that this bill delivery method is not only faster and more reliable, but it also provides environmental benefits. Additionally, changing to paperless billing allows more JWSC funding to go toward capital projects, since approximately 21,000 JWSC bills are mailed. The electronic file that paperless billing customers receive is an exact replica of the paper bill. Commissioner Cook asked Mrs. Roberts to demonstrate the ease of enrollment. Mrs. Roberts navigated to www.goldenisleslepc.org/, chose the Customer Service tab, then clicked the Paperless Billing Signup link. Commissioner Cook encouraged anyone needing assistance to contact Customer Service.

2. Financial Statement Month End January 31, 2025 – F. Wilson

Mrs. Wilson presented the financial statement for the month ending January 31, 2025. She reviewed the Balance Sheet noting the Current Assets and Current Liabilities and briefed the Committee on the Combined Revenue Statement.  The various Operating Revenues accounts were noted, and details on the Summary of Revenues and Summary of Expenses were highlighted.  Mrs. Wilson briefly reviewed line items on the Cash Balances and the Project Report.

 

Commissioner Watson asked if there was any further business to discuss.

Commissioner Watson adjourned the meeting at 3:43 p.m.

For your consideration, please read the minutes from the Finance Meeting held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.

Finance Minutes 05-14-2025 with Attachments

To read the minutes, please open or download the pdf from the link above, or you may see more below.

 

Brunswick-Glynn Joint Water & Sewer Commission

1703 Gloucester Street, Brunswick, GA 31520

Commission Meeting Room

Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 3:00 PM 

 

PRESENT:                             

Committee Chairman Ben Turnipseed

Commissioner Dave Ford

Commissioner Wayne Neal

Executive Director Andrew Burroughs

 

ALSO PRESENT:                  

LaDonnah Roberts, Deputy Executive Director

Harry Patel, Assistant Engineer

Pam Crosby, Director of Procurement

David Owens, Director of Finance

Christa Free, Procurement Coordinator

 

MEDIA PRESENT:                None

 

Chairman Turnipseed called the meeting to order at 1:01 PM.

 

Chairman Turnipseed provided an invocation.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

 

Chairman Turnipseed opened the Public Comment Period. There being no citizens that wished to address the Committee, Chairman Turnipseed closed the Public Comment Period.

 

APPROVAL

1. Minutes from April 16, 2025, Facilities Committee Meeting

Commissioner Ford made a motion seconded by Commissioner Neal to approve the minutes from the Facilities Committee Meeting held on April 16, 2025. Motion carried 3-0.

 

2. Contract Award – Lakewood Avenue Water Main Extension – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs discussed the potential expansion of the JWSC water system along Lakewood Avenue, located just north of the City limits off Community Road. Currently, there is approximately 685 feet of existing 8-inch PVC water main extending southward from Community Road, with properties beyond this section relying on private wells. Several residents in the area have reported significant issues with their wells, including sand intrusion and poor water quality, and have requested access to JWSC’s system.

A new residential structure is currently under development approximately 360 feet from the existing water main. The property owner obtained a quote from J.H. Stone Construction to install a 2-inch line to service their home, which would meet minimum requirements for a single residence. However, in consideration of long-term infrastructure needs and resident concerns, a proposal was developed to install a more robust 8-inch water main over a 560-foot span, including a fire hydrant and a flush connection to preserve water quality until additional customers are connected or the system is looped further.

There was a noted discrepancy in the GIS mapping system, which appears to be missing a section of the water main; however, the presence of an existing fire hydrant confirms that water infrastructure is in place, even if it is not properly documented. This area had previously been identified as a strong candidate for water system expansion under the SPLOST 2021 program. Based on current needs and future growth potential, it was recommended that JWSC proceed with the installation of the 8-inch main, fire hydrant, and flush connection at a total estimated cost of $55,000, to be funded through SPLOST 2021 proceeds.

Commissioner Neal made a motion seconded by Commissioner Ford that the Facilities Committee recommend awarding a contract to J.H. Stone Construction, Inc in the amount of $55,000 for the Lakewood Avenue Water Extension. Motion carried 3-0.

 

3. Contract Award – On-Call Boring Services – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs shared that there was a new bid process that was initiated for horizontal directional drilling services, expanding on a similar contract awarded several years ago. This updated solicitation included labor, equipment, tools, and incidentals for the installation of 2″, 4″, 6″, 8″, 12″, and 16″ pipe sizes—an increase from the previous bid, which covered only up to 8″. The expanded pipe diameters were included to accommodate occasional needs for larger casings beneath roads and right-of-way. All pipe materials will be supplied by JWSC, with the contractor responsible solely for the installation. Contractors are required to complete work within three weeks of receiving a purchase order.

One bid was received from TB Landmark Construction, a contractor with a strong track record and extensive prior experience with JWSC. Their pricing was deemed reasonable and consistent with expectations, with per-foot rates ranging from $70 to $90 for standard sizes, and higher rates for the 12″ and 16″ pipe installations. TB Landmark Construction has already expressed interest in available work and is prepared to begin immediately. This contract will streamline the execution of small-scale projects by eliminating the need for separate bids on each job.

 

Commissioner Ford made a motion seconded by Commissioner Neal that the Facilities Committee recommend awarding a contract to TB Landmark Construction, Inc. as listed in the attached bid tabulation. Motion carried 3-0.

 

4. Infrastructure Dedications – A. Burroughs

In Mr. Kline’s absence Mr. Burroughs was able to provide the update for the five properties involved with this approval item.

 

The first dedication pertains to the Alpine Gateway Project near Canal Crossing, involving a section of sewer main beneath the Alpine Court public right-of-way. Only the segment between two manholes is being dedicated; all lateral connections to serve individual buildings will remain private. The second project involves the Friendly Express on Frederica Road, Saint Simons Island. This dedication includes a water and sewer easement connecting to the water main at the rear of 50 Oaks Drive, allowing future access and maintenance.

 

The third dedication is from the Tru by Hilton hotel at Exit 29 near the “I am Nacho Mama” restaurant. The dedication includes 89 feet of water line, 64 feet of sewer line, and an access easement across the property. It was confirmed that adequate water pressure has been achieved through two improvements: discovery and opening of a closed valve and reprogramming of the SCADA system to trigger pump activation based on local pressure rather than tank levels. The fourth dedication relates to Grand Island View Phase 1, a new multifamily development off Highway 17. While all on-site water and sewer infrastructure is private, the utility is accepting an easement for access to two on-site 8-inch water meters for maintenance purposes.

 

The fifth and final dedication is from Southport Parkway Townhomes, a 277-unit development with nine buildings located across from the Elementary School and adjacent to the Southport Wastewater facility. All water and sewer infrastructure has been inspected and accepted by the PNC team. Instead of granting easements for individual utility segments, the entire roadway is being dedicated as an easement. All record drawings and legal documents for these dedications have been reviewed and approved. It was also noted that any future maintenance performed by the utility on private property will be billed to the property owner, with prior notification given to the customer.

Commissioner Neal made a motion seconded by Commissioner Ford that the Facilities Committee recommend the full Commission approve and accept these requests to accept infrastructure and easements with associated documentation. Motion carries 3-0.

 

DISCUSSION

1. Water Production Report – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs presented the Water Production Report for the month of May 2025 to the Facilities Committee. This report provides the Committee with monthly and daily water production in millions of gallons for each of the BGJWSC water production facilities (wells). The following are Brunswick District production facilities: Howard Coffin, Goodyear Park, Brunswick Villa, FLETC, I-95, Golden Isles I, Golden Isles II, Canal, and Ridgewood.  The South Mainland District wells include Fancy Bluff, Exit 29, and Brookman. Mallery, Airport, Harrington, and Hampton South are the wells located in the St. Simons Island District.

 

2. WPCF Plant Flows Report – A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs reviewed the May 2025 Monthly Wastewater Flow Report with the Committee. This report contains data regarding the influent and effluent flows, concentration of elements and chemicals, plant capacity, etc. Aside from ongoing ammonia issues at Academy Creek, the plants are operating well. Improvement is being shown on the ammonia because of improved solids handling.

 

3. Capital Project Report –A. Burroughs

Mr. Burroughs presented an update on the monthly Project Report for Capital Projects currently in process including those in the engineering phase and those in construction.  The Commissioners were provided with a packet containing: the Capital Project Photographs, Capital Project Report Spreadsheet, and the Capital Project Gantt Chart of project timelines.  Mr. Burroughs presented the update by highlighting projects along with excellent photographs and descriptive details on scopes of work completed as well as portions remaining for final project completion. Mr. Burroughs also reminded the Commissioners of items that are currently out for bids or pending release of bid packages.

Chairman Turnipseed asked if there was any further business to discuss. Hearing none, Commissioner Neal made a motion seconded by Commissioner Ford to adjourn. Motion carries 3-0.

 

Chairman Turnipseed adjourned the meeting at 1:55 p.m.