Licensing, Insurance, and Funding Aired at Water District Meeting

BLUE RIVER: During the Blue River Water District Board’s September 3 at the O’Brien Memorial Library issues ranged from licensing requirements to insurance liability, as well a ongoing operational challenges.

During public comments, local resident Merrick Firestone asked which bylaw or policy authorized the district to “not approve a duly elected member of the board” – referring to Tony Casad, who had won a seat as a write in candidate in the May election.

Firestone also questioned the district’s lack of a small water business license for the past six months, raising concerns about whether insurance would cover any system repairs made during that time.

Board president Jim Parks acknowledged the lapse, stating that the district had until November 17 to meet state and county requirements.

The superintendent’s report noted that two operators had recently completed the small water certification class and were awaiting exam results to become Direct Responsible Contacts (DRCs). Board member Joshua Cloke requested returning to more detailed report from the superintendent that would include meter data, which Parks agreed to provide at future meetings.

The board also discussed insurance implications of having non-board members serve as DRCs. Parks confirmed that the district would need to contract with an outside operator to ensure proper liability coverage.

The meeting grew tense as members addressed an ethics grievance letter that had been submitted by the district’s attorney without formal board approval. Cloke argued the board should have voted before the filing. In response, Abel moved to give the chairman authority to respond to time-sensitive grievances. Cloke pushed back, suggesting that authority should not apply when the chairman himself is the subject of a complaint. The board ultimately decided to seek legal guidance before making a policy change.

The district’s longstanding informal arrangement with the Rainbow Water District was referenced and the board agreed a formal contract should be drafted and reviewed by legal counsel. Parks also announced upcoming contractor and town hall meetings related to the water system.

On the financial side, the board voted to maintain workers’ compensation insurance, at a cost of roughly $1,000 annually, despite members serving without salaries. They also discussed ending the long-standing practice of using personal credit cards for district purchases. Treasurer Shanon Goodpasture-Lehr was tasked with researching banking options.

Parks reported progress on financial housekeeping, including removing outdated signers from bank and investment accounts.

The board also reviewed moving future meetings permanently to the library, which offers better phone and internet service than the school. Parks will negotiate terms with library staff, who had suggested an annual fee of about $300.

The board also reviewed a draft policy restricting access to district wells and reservoir property, requiring supervision by the superintendent. Fence repairs at both reservoirs were deemed a priority.

The district is also sorting out a post office box issue after being billed for a box that had previously been obtained under an incorrect address. The water district and the park district currently share the box and agreed to split costs.

To view a video of the meeting go to: tinyurl.com/2wppsy82