Board forms committee to study hiring an administrator and to start 2026 rate analysis

The Saint Joe Water and Sewer District board agreed to create a small committee to examine administrative support options and to compile materials for a district‑wide rate analysis expected in 2026.

Speaker 1 proposed forming the committee to reduce reliance on hourly consultant costs and to address clerical and collection tasks that the board currently pays consultants to perform. Jessica Clark and Skye volunteered to serve on the committee; the board emphasized keeping the committee small so it can report back without creating a quorum issue.

Board members said the rate study should explicitly address differences across subdistricts and recommended beginning with Granger because of higher maintenance demands, rising chemical costs and aging equipment. One board member noted Granger’s average measured flows and force‑main operational profile as reasons to prioritize that subdistrict.

The committee will consult with JPR, district accountants and operations staff to develop options — including the cost of a full‑time administrator (salary and facility costs) versus interlocal administrative support — and to recommend how potential administrator costs should be included in rate scenarios.