Vienna utility board hears staffing woes; rate increase paperwork awaiting legal review

Speaker 2 told the Vienna Utility Board the utility is down four employees and described recent recruitment difficulties, saying an interviewee told staff, "I can make $4,000 a month... so I'm not gonna work in out in the weather" and declined the position. Speaker 2 said hiring has been hampered by pay levels and that any increase would need to be addressed in the budget.

On rates, Speaker 2 said the paperwork for a proposed rate increase is currently with attorneys so it can proceed to counsel reading; no formal vote or rate adoption occurred at the meeting. When asked by Speaker 1 whether payroll costs were included in the rate calculation, Speaker 2 replied that payroll was included.

Operations updates noted few leaks over the month, ongoing snow removal, and continuing meter replacement and telemetry projects. One shipment for an electrical panel is delayed in customs, pausing completion of a related job until the equipment arrives.

Under new business, Speaker 2 reported that an initial bid solicitation for the 12th Street Lift Station received zero returned proposals despite three firms picking up bid packages; the item will be rebid and reissued for the board to consider at a future meeting. A vendor inquiry earlier that day requested plans and specifications, which staff said may generate more interest in the rebid.

The meeting adjourned with the next board meeting scheduled for Feb. 11 at 10:00 AM.