Water Resources Board approves audits, capital authorizations and planning contracts; several project votes carried

The Water Resources Board opened its December meeting by approving a seven-item consent agenda and accepting minutes from Oct. 28, 2025.

Audits: Board members heard that both the water-resources and stormwater draft audits received clean opinions with "no findings of any kind," according to an auditor on the call. The board voted to accept both draft audits.

Wastewater planning: The board approved a new SSR task order to update the city’s wastewater facilities plan. The consultant proposal is $334,300 and funding will come from working-capital reserves.

Percy Priest study: The board approved participating in a Corps of Engineers water-reallocation study for Percy Priest Lake at a reduced share; the board approved participation at a 10% share of the working estimate (the presenter described that as 10% of a $2,000,000 figure, discussed as a $200,000 contribution).

Capital projects and easements: The board approved a package of capital actions including authorization to abandon selected service taps and replace 13 valve boxes along Medical Center Parkway (project estimate presented with a $170,000 figure including contingency), approval to proceed with replacement of the Thompson Lane and Battlefield pump stations following bid review, and approval of revised Thompson Lane easement offers and a design amendment to move sewer into the roadway. Staff said most votes were by voice with motions carried.

Next steps: Staff will return with contract documents, appraisals and additional offers as needed for easements, and will present CIP adjustments in January.