R E G I O N A L
W A T E R
A S S O C I A T I O N
OF
April Meeting
Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Parkland Light & Water Company
AGENDA
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. Approval of March 2010 Minutes –
3.
4. Legislative Wrap-up Report –
5. Water Festival, Report on Event - TPCHD
6.
7. RWA Finance Sub-committee –
6. Associate Member - AHBL
7. Other Business
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Meeting to be held at Parkland Light & Water –
MEETING NOTICE: THE MAY 2010 RWA MEETING WILL NOT BE HELD & JUNE WILL BE THE RWA ANNUAL MEETING
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
February 16, 2010
1.
2. The January 2010 minutes were approved. (
3. Financial Report.
4. Legislative Update.
A discussion of current bills of concern occurred:
#1. 2508, relating to water right processing / DOE cost reimbursement program. The current process requires those interested in participating to pay to process those water rights ahead in-line. Question of mitigation requirements exists and the final approval process is not defined. Some WUCC issues have been addressed in the substitute bill, but some concerns still exist. The bill is still moving. Burt Clothier noted the bill also applies to change applications and reviews.
#2. SHB 2591, relating to cost schedule for processing water right applications. This contains huge fee increases. These higher fees do not ensure better processing. There are still issues and concerns associated with this bill.
#3. HB 3179. This bill was heard on Feb 9 & passed to Rule Committee. The bill allows cities and counties to impose a public safety tax until 2013 without a vote. A tax on public utilities on gross utility revenue by counties would be allowed. The public would not be informed of this. Water utilities would pass on their costs to their customers and would end up “catching the heat”. If the tax is based on gross revenue then other revenue such as cell tower rental revenue would be doubled-taxed.
#4. HB 6261, relating to liens and collections. At this point this bill is more directed to Power utilities, but the WUCC is concerned if it starts here, it will be applied to water & sewer utilities in the future. Now
#5. 3181 is of minor concern & is related to water pollution.
#6. 5948 relates to low flow toilets & urinals.
#7. SB 6802 relating to managing groundwater.
#8. SB 6451, relating to residential sprinklers. This bill contains some of the provisions water utilities have requested Rep Simpson to include. The bill does not appear to be moving.
#9. HB 2468 appears to no longer be moving, but may be back next year.
5. Associate Member – Robinson & Noble. Burt Clothier began by telling the membership that Robinson & Noble can now offer geotechnical services, having recent acquired Cornerstone which has an office in Woodinville. Rick Powell outlined the four new services Robinson & Noble can offer: preliminary evaluations; design; construction observation testing, and; plan review. Examples of each line of service was provided via powerpoint presentation.
6. Other Business
Burt Clothier provided that the Conceptional Model Project Report from USGS for the Chambers-Clover Creek project is expected to be available in the next month. In the meantime, construction of the computer model has started. The model is expected to be ready for runs this summer, with the technical report to follow. Burt noted that Mark Savoca, UGSG project lead, has said the investment made by the water purveyors has been crucial to the project’s success.
Chris Mueller provided the membership with a handout on the Groundwater Rule, which is an example of how reporting must now occur. Chris also provided that Group B water systems are not required to comply with the same arsenic standards as Group A systems. Chris offered to assist water utilities with questions on the Groundwater Rule.
The TPCHD is now also going to have enforcement of smaller Group A systems through a joint plan of response agreement with DOH. Currently, some small A systems are not sampling. Enforcement of these systems will now occur.
February 16, 2010
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway
Chris Mueller Water Management Labs
Kim Savage Apex Engineering
Burt Clothier Robinson Noble
Rick Powell Robinson Noble
Scott Danielson JKA Civil Engineering
Harvey Sandoval RH2
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
January 19, 2010
1.
2. The November 2009 minutes were approved. (
3. Groundwater Rule.
Water systems are required to comply with the Groundwater Rule beginning December 31, 2009.
Following the presentation, it was asked: During the EPA extension period, what happens if a system has a positive reading? Mike Means provided that DOH will implement its current processes, but must inform the utility of what the Groundwater Rule requirements are.
Mike Means noted that the current “Outstanding Performance” language (that would allow a utility to stay on a 5 year sanitary survey cycle rather than moving to a 3 year cycle) is a placeholder. Asking, what should it look like? Every state has the ability to define “outstanding performance”. Should it be a high bar or a really high bar?
Informal feedback on the Rule language can be provided to Derrick Dennis, Mike Means or
4. Groundwater Rule.
5.
6. 2010 Water Festival. Susan Clark and Michelle Harris provided information on the March 23, 2010 Water Festival event to occur at the
7. Other Business
January 19, 2010
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway
John Herycyk Spanaway
David Hall
Chris Mueller Water Management Labs
Dave Chihak
Shawn Piper Sumner
Daryl Scott
Lora Scott
Ed Westwood Spanaway
T. Thisodeaux Spanaway
Marshall Meyer RH2 Engineers
Kim Savage Apex Engineering
Brian Thompson Valley Water District
Michelle Harris TPCHD
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Doug Fisher
Paul Jacoby Dupont
Mike Means DOH
Derrick Dennis DOH
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
November 17, 2009
1.
2. The October 2009 minutes were approved. (Dave Troup; seconded by
3. USGS Chambers-Clover Creek Model.
Dave Seabrook provided a draft budget for continuing the modeling effort. (Projected contribution expected for FY2010: USGS @ $65,685; Water Purveyors @ $56,890; Pierce Conservation District @ $20,000; Pierce County Surface Water Management @ $10,000.) The budget numbers would mean the Conservation District could: 1) measure wells not in purveyor service areas; 2) serve as a data repository for the next 5 years; 3) conduct seepage runs next summer. The USGS had permission to monitor 137 wells. Permission will be changed to the Conservation District, but the USGS will continue to model
Dave Seabrook requested members review the budget and noted the formula applied to individual purveyors may need revision.
4. October Emergency Response exercise Briefing. No briefing occurred -
5. Residential Fire Sprinklers.
* Lack of education
* Lack of design and installation standards which lead to different costs
* Lack of recovery of savings
* Permit costs
* Utility fees
* Water shut offs (who is liable?)
* How to credit water loss under the Municipal Water Law – larger meters have higher inaccuracy ratings
The WUCC put together a guidance paper to address issues associated with residential fire sprinklers and to assist utilities to prepare a residential fire sprinkler program.
The International Code Council, the body which establishes national building codes, has mandated residential fire sprinklers by 2010.
5. 2010 Conference.
Dave Logan from
6. Other Business
October 20, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Donald Odell Spanaway Water
Bill Davis Spanaway
John Herycyk Spanaway
David Logan
Scott Danielson JKA
Ralph Walker Fruitland Water
Joel Purdy GeoEngineers
Dave Seabrook Pierce Conservation District
R E G I O N A L
W A T E R
A S S O C I A T I O N
OF
January Meeting
Tuesday, January 19, 2010, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Rainier View Water Company
AGENDA
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. Approval of November 2009 Minutes –
3. Groundwater Rule – Derrick Dennis, Groundwater Rule Technical Lead, DOH
4. Groundwater Rule – Chris Mueller
5.
6. 2010 Water Festival – Susan Clark
7. Other Business
__________________
Do you have an agenda item you wish to have covered?
Please contact a Board Member!
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R E G I O N A L
W A T E R
A S S O C I A T I O N
OF
November Meeting
Tuesday, November 17, 2009, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Fruitland Mutual Water Company
AGENDA
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. Approval of October 2009 Minutes –
3. Overview Report: USGS Chambers-Clover Creek Model –
4. October Emergency Response Exercise Briefing – Lou Dooley,
5. Residential Fire Sprinkler Update –
6. 2010 AWWA
7. Other Business
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REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
October 20, 2009
1. Larry Jones called the meeting to order and introductions were made.
2.
3. Financial Report.
4. Natural Lawn Care – Gary Porter provided that he was here on behalf of Geoff Reinhardt to inform RWA members of the availability of natural lawn care brochures (5 detailed brochures & 1 general – available as a pdf for electronic posting) and to request RWA members make the brochures available to their customers. The natural lawn care program promotes the efficient use of water. Samples of the brochures and a sign-up sheet for those interested in receiving more were passed around to the membership.
5. Overview Report: USGS Chambers-Clover Creek Model. Burt Clothier reported that the Chambers-Clover Modeling Project technical committee is still reviewing USGS’s technical report, which focuses on the first phase of the project – developing a conceptual model for the watershed. Next year, a computer model will be built, based on the conceptual model. Following review by the technical committee, the conceptual model will undergo internal USGS “peer review” prior to official release. Further, Burt provided:
* The technical committee is continuing to discuss concerns with the project’s precipitation rainfall model.
* The area of coverage of the conceptual model is good and is a larger area than originally expected.
* The period of data that will be used in the computer model is 18 months which reflects the project’s data collection period. This is a short data period, but is a good starting point for adding on to in the future. Discussion of adding additional data has occurred, which Burt highly recommends doing.
* Internal USGS review is expected to begin in November and last 4 to 6 weeks.
* USGS will begin developing the computer model in November.
* The project is targeted to be finished at the end of FY2010 (Sept 2011).
* When completed, the computer model should be useful for predicting future impacts.
6. Emergency Preparedness Planning.
7. Equipment Committee Report.
8. Residential Fire Sprinkler Update. Ted Hardiman reported that the residential fire sprinkler bill died, but it is expected something will be raised again this session.
9. 2010 AWWA
10. Other Business
Gary Porter reported that TPCHD has been working to update its environmental health regulations, including drinking water regulations. SEPA will be issued on the proposed changes on Friday October 23 and will be available on TPCHD’s website. An email with the link will be provided the RWA membership.
Katherine Brooks reported that the Pierce County Council adopted changes to the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan regarding water facilities last week. Although the Council did not adopt its original proposal, it did not adopt the recommendation to consider water facilities to be essential public facilities.
Katherine Brooks suggested that a County-wide water system information day to, in particular, reach out to smaller water utilities, would be beneficial. Other comments provided support for such an event.
October 20, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Dave Matz AHBL
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood Water Company
Katherine Brooks
Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District
Gary Porter TPCHD
Kim Savage APEX Engineering
Lou Dooley
Ted Hardiman Fruitland Mutual
Tim Wells Spanaway
John Knowles JKA Civil Engineering
Marc Horton Skillings Connolly
David Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Marshall Meyer RH2
Bill Davis Spanaway
Betty Vance Valley Water District
Nihat Dogan FCS Group
John Ryding DOH
Larry Jones Firgrove
Burt Clothier Robinson & Noble
Tony Ching APEX Engineering
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
September 15, 2009
1.
2. The July 2009 meeting minutes were approved. (
3. TPCHD Regulation Revision Update.
The major change to the regulations for Group A water systems is associated with when TPCHD will require a water availability letter. Currently, water availability letters are required at preliminary plat approval. The new regulation will require water availability letters at the time of final plat approval. At the preliminary plat stage, developers will need to identify the responsible water utility.
Brad also noted that the TPCHD is responsible per WAC to approve water systems for other agencies (daycares, schools, nursing homes), but did not have regulations to address this requirement. The revision includes an approval process. The regulation revision will also no longer allow private wells to be drilled within a designated water service area unless the designated purveyor gives an approval. TPCHD is also revising its underground storage tank regulations to provide the authority to go after leaking underground tanks. Currently over 1,000 leaking tank sites exist in
Cindy Miron, TPCHD, walked the RWA membership through a powerpoint presentation on H1N1/09 Flu Preparations. (Note: The powerpoint is available on the RWA website: www.pcrwa.org.)
4. Water Festival Funding/Update.
Dave Troupe made the following motion: The RWA approves providing $3000 to the (March 23) 2010 Water Festival. (Seconded by
5. Legislative / USGS Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed Modeling Project Update. No legislative report was provided. John Weidenfeller noted the Small System Drinking Water Report came out and is available on DOH’s website.
John Weidenfeller noted he had received a WUCC issue paper on exempt wells.
Katherine Brooks announced that the proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment will next be reviewed by the County Council on Monday (September 21). Katherine understands the Council is proposing an amendment to the recommendation of the Pierce County Planning Commission (which is the recommendation of the water purveyor community), but has not yet seen the amendment.
6. Other.
Brad Harp asked the membership for assistance with the TPCHD’s quarterly workshops it puts on for managers of Group B water systems. If you are interested in participating, let Brad know.
Brad Harp announced the latest long term groundwater monitoring program disk will come out at the end of the year. And, noted that Ray Hanowell asks that data for the program be submitted to Marilyn Root – mroot@tpchd.org.
John Weidenfeller requested input on how other utilities charge vacant properties for water service, noting Thurston County PUD is considering system development charges.
Roger Nottage provide a copy of a “Operational Agreement Maintenance and Flow Testing of Fire Hydrants” Chief Doug Lewis has signed. The Agreement will be provided to the Fire Marshall for review.
Tim Wells relayed that Jeff Johnson wanted the membership to know that the next DEM table top exercise is the same day and the South Sound Section training.
September 15, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Dave Matz AHBL
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood Water Company
John Weidenfeller Thurston
Katherine Brooks
Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District
Heather Pennington
Gary Porter TPCHD
Scott Danielson JKA
Tim Wells Spanaway
Harvey Sandoval RH2
Burt Clothier Robinson & Noble
Cindy Miron TPCHD
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
May 19, 2009
1. Larry Jones called the meeting to order and introductions were made.
2. The April 2009 meeting minutes were approved.
3. Annual Report. Larry Jones walked the membership through the annual Report of Regional Water Association; June 2008-May 2009 dated May 19, 2009. Larry concluded by noting that the RWA is a membership driven organization and that the Board is interested in accommodating the membership and learning where the membership is interested in heading. (Larry Jones also requested a revision to Firgrove’s listed connection count from 5,000 to 8,000.)
4. RWA Board Elections: Larry Jones provided that 3 Board positions are up for election (secretary, treasurer, at-large), no interested volunteers contacted the Board and all three existing Board members would serve again. Note: Prior to voting on each position, Larry Jones called for nominations from the floor.
Secretary: The RWA membership approved the motion to retain Susan Clark as secretary. (David Troupe; seconded by ?)
Treasurer: The RWA membership approved the motion to retain Roger Nottage as treasurer. (Marc Marcantonio; seconded by Ted Hardiman)
At-large: The RWA membership approved the motion to retain David Troupe in the at-large position. (Marc Marcantonio, seconded by Ted Hardiman)
5. Final Legislative Report. Randy Black and Jeff Johnson were unavailable to provide the final legislative report. John Weidenfeller provided that the no public works trust fund loan money will be available for the next biennium.
6. Swine Flu Update. Swine Flu Update.
7.
8. Associate Member (Skillings Connolly) John Segerson and
9. Other Business
May, 19 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
John Knowles JKA Civil Engineering
Dave Matz AHBL
Bill Davis Spanaway Water
Mike Krautkramer Robinson Noble Saltbush
John Weidenfeller Thurston
Marshall Meyer RH2
John Segerson Skillings Connelly
Katherine Brooks
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Larry Jones Firgrove
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
April 21, 2009
1. Randy Black called the meeting to order and introductions were made.
2. The March 2009 meeting minutes were approved (moved by Jeff Johnson, seconded by Marc Marcantonio).
3. Lane vs.
In Lane vs.
Tacoma Water has responded to the King County Superior Court decision as follows:
* Tacoma Water chose to address the Superior Court decision by removing public fire protection costs from our utility rates in order to start the 3 year statute of limitations timeline. The general governments in which Tacoma Water has fire hydrants received bills per fire hydrant, including the City of
* Tacoma Water could sue those general governments that currently have not paid their public fire protection expenses. This would cause the Court to decide outstanding issues.
* Because the Superior Court decision did not decide how public fire protection costs could be paid, Tacoma Water could work with its general governments on a way to pay for public fire protection costs. As a public entity, Tacoma Water can not give or receive a “gift”. Instead, something of value must be exchanged. It might be possible, for example, to determine a value for a franchise agreement then apply that value to public fire protection expenses due to Tacoma Water. (It was noted that private water utilities do not have the same “gifting” limitations as apply to public entities.)
* Nine more days of the legislative session exist. A new hydrant fee tax could be authorized.
* Tacoma Water could notify their general governments that the utility is no longer providing public fire protection service.
Randy Black commented that residential fire sprinklers in new residential construction may be mandated shortly. This mandate will cause utilities to have to increase main size in order to provide such service. Passing on the cost of this increase will be necessary. Perhaps utilities will have to increase their base rates, but only for those homes with residential fire sprinklers.
Mark Johnson voiced the concern that it might be possible for water systems meeting the definition of “municipal supplier” to be sued by rate payers to provide municipal services such as public fire protection.
4. Pierce County Water Utilities Coordinating Committee Update: Roger Nottage reported the Pierce County WUCC has suspended meeting until issues associated with the Municipal Water Law have been resolved and/or until March 2010. The WUCC began meeting to address service areas, but discussed other possible issues and concerns. In the end, the WUCC decided to leave the Pierce County Coordinated Water System Plan as is, with revisions possible at a later date.
5. RWA/WUCC/Co-op Letter to
6. Legislative Update: Randy Black and Jeff Johnson provided a legislative briefing, noting that additional information is available on the RWA website. Randy Black provided that he and Ted Hardiman recently attended a meeting of the Washington Building Officials Association to discuss issues associated with mandating residential fire sprinklers. At the meeting, it was learned that in 2008 16 deaths occurred in the state in house fires with residential sprinklers; with 2 deaths in homes with alarms. Smoke detectors save lives; property is saved with residential fire sprinklers.
7. Emergency Management Radios Update. Marc Marcantonio reported that all 7 utilities have obtained their emergency radio from
8. Emergency Plan Template for RWA Members. Randy Black reminded the RWA that during last month’s RWA meeting putting together an emergency management plan/mutual aid template was discussed. The RWA Board has discussed the possibility of obtaining the services of an Associate Member to put together the template. Roger Nottage lead a discussion of the types of issues RWA members would like to see addressed by the template. Marc Marcantonio stressed the importance of working with Pierce County Emergency Management. The discussion concluded with the formation of a sub-committee to work to develop the list of issues to be covered by the template.
9. 2010 Conference Committee: Randy Black provided that 2 meetings have occurred thus far of those assisting with the 2010 Conference. Although all the sub-committee chairs have been selected, additional assistance is needed.
10. Other Business
Randy Black announced the next training sponsored by the South Sound Section will occur on April 23 at the County’s
Jeff Johnson announced that the Phase II Emergency Management Planning meeting will be held on Thursday April 23.
Marc Marcantonio announced that a Pierce County Regional Earthquake Exercise will be held on October 21, with a May 1 registration deadline. He will attend on behalf of the RWA.
April 21, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
John Knowles JKA Civil Engineering
Dave Matz AHBL
Bill Davis Spanaway Water
Mar Horton Skillings Connelly
Tim Ramsaur
Harley Sandouval RH2
Tony Utanis City of
Mike Dahlem City of
Galen Nusbaum Graham Hill Mutual
Glen Baker City of
Tony Ching Apex Engineering
Kim Savage Apex Engineering
Randall Black
Jeff Johnson Spanaway
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood Water Company
Mark Johnson
Bill Fosbre
David Roberts Parametrix
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
March 17, 2009
1. David Troupe called the meeting to order and introductions were made.
2. The February 2009 meeting minutes were approved (moved by
3. Introduction of new TPCHD Director, Dr. Chen. Randy Black arrived at the meeting, introduced Dr. Chen and welcomed him to his first RWA meeting. Dr. Chen began his comments by noting the important work water utilities do in the area of public health. Following a description of his past work experiences, Dr. Chen reported that the TPCHD is moving toward implementing an ecosystems approach to public health – everything works together and is linked. For example, people can not be told to exercise more if their neighborhoods do not have a safe place to exercise. With an increase in safety in neighborhoods, comes increased economic development. To implement an ecosystem approach, the TPCHD must have good communications and good relationships with many others in the community. Randy Black noted that the TPCHD has always had high integrity employees and good working relationships with the water utility community, but the fluoride issue under the former director did strain the relationship; therefore, he recommended that work on the relationship continue. Dr. Chen commented that one of the reasons he chose to take the position at TPCHD was because he saw a collaborative approach being taken in this community.
4. Briefing/Legislative Update: Randy Black provided the membership with copies of the March 13, 2009 Weekly Legislative Report prepared by Noah Reandeau for the WUCC, noting the RWA is a paying member of the WUCC. Randy provided a verbal summary of SHB 2224 (Residential Fire Sprinklers), ESBH 1996 (Locating Underground Facilities), ESHB 5583 (Water Banking and Exchange) and ESHB 1571 (Water Right Adjudication). Jeff Johnson reported on SSB 5504 (Reclaimed Water) and provided a handout of the RAC’s January 21, 2009 draft WAC regarding reclaimed water planning requirements, noting that while many of the formerly proposed reclaimed feasibility study requirements have been removed, it is still important to keep an eye on the WAC as it is developed. Jeff also reported that the Supreme Court decided to take the Municipal Water Law case.
Randy Black reminded the membership that
6. Emergency Management Radios. David Troupe reported that himself,
With the arrival of the first radios, Randy Black suggested it might be time for the RWA to develop a RWA emergency management plan that would allow utility employees to provide assistance during emergencies to others. If members are interested, obtaining consultant services to help with creating a template for individual utilities to use would be possible.
7. Other Business
Randy Black announced the next training sponsored by the South Sound Section will occur on April 23 at the County’s
March 17, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Anthony Chen TPCHD
Kim Savage Apex Engineering
Jim Hay Robinson, Noble & Saltbush
Randall Black
Jeff Johnson Spanaway
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood Water Company
Dale Budzinski
Brad Harp TPCHD
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
February 17, 2009
1. The meeting was called to order and introductions were made.
2. The January 2009 meeting minutes were approved (moved by David Gaylord seconded by Marc Marcantonio).
3. Reservoir Recirculation Technology. Peter Fiske (PAX Water Technologies) presented the “Case of the Sweaty Tank” (A Spanaway standpipe with a sweat mark at 20 to 30 feet, but with a water level at 100 feet.) Through his presentation, Peter explained that the difference between a storage tank and a lake is a lack of nature circulation occurring in a tank. This lack of circulation leads to elevated temperatures at the top of the tank and other associated problems. For example, through the study, it was determined that Spanaway was seeing approximately 10 degrees difference in temperature between the top of the tank and the bottom. Installing a PAX mixer has fixed the situation. This represents the first time the PAX mixer has been used in a standpipe.
Jeff Johnson noted that the PAX mixer has proven to be very effective and its installation was minimally intrusive. Peter Fiske commented it is possible to self-install if the tank is drained first; that the motor on the mixer is recommended to be replaced as the reservoir is cleaned (every 3 to 5 years) and it is possible to obtain a solar generated mixer.
TMG Services (Dean Brown) and Spanaway Water Company (Tim Tayne) are available to answer questions.
4. DOH’s Water Quality Reporting Standards. Chris Mueller reminded the membership that the State was considering changing (lowering) SRL standards. Due to the concerns raised during the process, the State has reconsidered. So, we are in the “same place as 10 years ago”. Contact with Jim Hudson (State lead) earlier in the day confirmed that the State still is still holding off on changes. Chris provided that the State appears to be moving toward electronic lab submittals in order to save money at the State level. Doing so would eliminate 2-3 employees. It would cost $150,000 to meet the requirement at his lab. He has also been notified that impacts to lab certification cycles may occur due to State budget problems. It may be necessary to go to a national certification process. Chris also suggested that if any system is going to paint a tank, flood the tank with air for at least 7 days or the system will fail its water quality testing. Jeff Johnson noted Spanaway recently left a newly painted tank off line for a month.
5. Briefing: TPCHD Water Regulations Update. Brad Harp noted that over the years, the TPCHD has been implementing a mix of local, federal, state and county regulations and has recently decided to consolidate all such regulations into a single document. Larry Jones represents the RWA on the 9-person focus put together to address the changes. Most regulations are not changing. One change will be to Group B Water Systems to recognize that the State will no longer be regulating B systems. The work with the focus group is scheduled to be completed by June/July. Board of Health review is expected by year end. Brad will provide the work thus far for posting to the RWA website. Comments can be addressed either to Brad or to Larry Jones.
6. Associate Member – Water Management Labs. Chris Mueller provided that Water Management Lab. is certified in both water and wastewater. The labs’ 6 chemists and 5 macro biologists process approximately 2500 samples a month and provide 24 hour a day service. For example, Chris assisted in the Orting event beginning at midnight and 2 chemists were available back at the lab. Further, Water Management Labs does not charge additional fees for after hour assistance and its chemists and macro biologists are always available to answer questions. Marc Marcantonio, Jeff Johnson and Randy Black all provided positive comments regarding Water Management Labs willingness to assist in answering questions and providing solutions.
7. Other Business.
Randy also informed the Membership that the South Sound Section is hosting a seminar on April 23 at the County’s
Lou Dooley encouraged the Membership to participate in Phase 2 Region 5 Emergency Mitigation Planning and noted Spanaway will be participating and doing so makes systems eligible for federal money.
Katherine Brooks informed the group that
Burt Clothier provided that the USGS Chambers – Clover Creek Watershed Modeling study, as presented at last month’s RWA meeting, is currently on schedule and he and Mark Savoca are available to answer questions. Burt also provided that the Governor’s office is currently proposing getting rid of numerous over-site committees, including the Well Drillers Technical Advisory Group. Burt suggested this group has been very important to water purveyors and should continue operating. At the Membership’s request, Burt agreed to provide background information on the group, including points water systems could make when commenting on the importance of the group.
Jeff Johnson noted that the information submitted by the utilities for the USGS Study was current only through year 2007 and that information for 2008 would be helpful. He also noted that the Water Resources Advisory Committee (WRAC) and the Water Supply Advisory Committee (WSAC) are also slated for elimination.
Brad Harp announced that the TPCHD has a new director (Dr. Anthony Chen) who is interested in attending a RWA meeting in order to introduce himself to the Membership.
David Troupe announced that the 7 emergency radios have arrived at the County for distribution to RWA members.
Mark Johnson brought up new legislation regarding certifying crane operators which may have an impact on water utilities. The legislation was revised to exclude power utilities from the requirements, but not water utilities.
February 17, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Randall Black
David Matz AHBL
Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District
Jeff Johnson Spanaway
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood Water Company
Betty Vance Valley Water District
Mark Johnson
Dale Budzinski
Joyce Chavez
Dean Brown TMG Services
Peter Fiske PAX Water Technologies
Chris Mueller Water Management Labs
Tony Utanis City of
Shaun Piper City of
Lou Dooley Pierce
Brad Harp TPCHD
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
January 20, 2009
1. The meeting was called to order and introductions were made.
2. The December 2008 meeting minutes were approved (moved by Marc Marcantonio; seconded by Roger Nottage).
3. Annual Treasurer’s Report.
4. Briefing: Emergency Radio Selection Criteria Committee. Dave Troupe noted that the number one criteria the radio selection committee is proposing is whether or not a water system is NIMS compliant and suggested the importance of contacting the County to ensure County records are correct.
5.
6. Other Business.
Jeff Johnson provided that the State has requested an extension in submitting the State’s brief on the Municipal Water Law challenge case.
USGS CHAMBERS CLOVER CREEK GROUNDWATER MODELING STUDY
Mark Savoca, USGS, provided an overview of the Chambers-Clover Creek Groundwater Modeling Study currently underway, including project objectives. When completed, the groundwater model can be used as a predictive tool to answer questions such as what kinds of impacts increased groundwater withdrawals will have on a regional scale and how can such impacts be mitigated. Wendy Welch, USGS, provided an overview of the Watershed’s hydrogeological framework. Ken Johnson, USGS, provided an overview of the numerical model. (Note: See RWA minutes from October 21, 2008 for additional information.)
Mark Savoca explained the concept of model simulations and noted that model performance will be demonstrated by approximately 6 different simulations which will represent a range of conditions. Hans Hunger asked how the model will deal with the use of septic tanks in the Watershed. Mark explained assumptions will have to be entered into the model, such as assuming sewers throughout the sewer service area. Mark further noted that this will be a regional model, not a sub-regional model. If additional data was available and added into the model, the grids could be reduced from the current 1,000 feet to allow for a “backyard” look. After model completion, it will be possible for interested stakeholders (private consulatants; water systems; local gov’ts etc.) to add additional data and use the model at a smaller scale.
Loren Rinelt asked if there are known short-comings in the model – areas where more data would improve the model. Mark Savoca offered: A two year period of record is short and continued monitoring would benefit the model; and, in some areas the hydrogeology information for the areas between wells has had to be estimated across great distances, therefore, adding additional wells would be helpful to narrow the area of estimation.
Ray Hanowell, TPCHD, addressed the group by explaining that the modeling study has had a technical committee which has met once a month throughout the project. Current plans call for the technical committee to continue to meet after the model is complete in order to coordinate the use of the model into the future. All are welcome to join the technical committee, all that is asked is fairly regular attendance, a willingness to learn and use the model. The
Isabel Ragland, Pierce Stream Team provided information regarding the type of activities that are undertaken by the Stream Team and noted that the Stream Team is proposing to take on well and stream flow monitoring/data collection for use in the model.
January 20, 2009
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Randall Black
Tony Ching Apex Engineering
David Matz AHBL
Nihat Dogan FCS Group
Scott Danielson JKA
Dave Seabrook Pierce Conservation District
Mitt Rahow R, N & S
Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District
Lorin Reinelt Pierce
Melissa Paulson Pierce
Jeff Johnson Spanaway
Paul Russell CCC
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood Water Company
Daniel Andrews Fruitland Water
Don Russell Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed Council – Citizen
Mike Nepple Coldwater Project Services
Betty Vance Valley Water District
Linton Wildrick Pacific Groundwater Group
Tom Culhane Ecology
Mark Johnson
Ray Hanowell
Lindsay Tuttle
Gary Porter
Hans Hunger
Mieke Hoppin City of
Merita Pollard City of
Mike Rose City of
Lauren McIntire City of
Jessica Wood Parametrix
Craig Downs
Scott Hallenberg
Megan Millimaki
Kris Kaufman Water Rights Inc
David Roberts Paramatrix
Isabel Ragland Pierce Stream Team
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
December 16, 2008
1. The meeting started at 9:05 with self introductions.
2. Minutes of the November 2008 meeting were approved. (Moved by
3.
* The EOC serves as the backup to the EOC for the State (which runs out of
* The EOC was opened a year ago and the EOC was activiated for the first time for last month’s floods
* The EOC replaces the Tacoma/Pierce County EOC which was located in the basement of the County/City Building
* The EOC was built to 1 ½ times code requirements for earthquakes
* The EOC is 12,000 square feet; cost $10 million to build and contains 130 work stations
* The EOC has a 550 kilowatt generator that can provide power for 20 days without refilling
* The EOC contains 24 miles of data cables, has 535 computer ports and contains several breakout rooms, including a media center and a room for policy makers/elected officials
* The main room of the EOC has workstations set around 4 separate “pods”: planning; operations; finance and logistics
* A duty officer is on call 24 hours a day / 7 days a week
* The goal of the EOC is to have a live voice answer each and every phone call
* The facility is 1 of 28 in the
* When needed, the SAR unit has 4 hours to bring in the 80 member unit, process the group and get it ready to go
Following information on the EOC, Lou noted that the County is moving into an Emergency Mitigation Planning Phase and that he will work with water purveyors beginning in January.
4. Residential Fire Sprinklers Update
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
December 16, 2008
Pierce
ATTENDANCE SHEET
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway Water 253-847-7547
Mel Blackstone AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Geoff Dillard RH2 Engineering
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
November 18, 2008
1. The meeting started at 9:00 with self introductions.
2. Minutes of the October 2008 meeting were approved. (Moved by
3.
4.
Jim Harksen, Drinking Water Security Coordinator, Office of Drinking Water, presented information on the WA WARN program. WA WARN stands for Washington Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network and has as its mission to “create an effective mutual aid organization amongst water systems in
Jim Harksen noted the following benefits of participating in the program:
* There is no cost to participate
* WARN increases emergency preparedness and coordination
* WARN speeds the arrival of support during a disaster
* Establishes procedures and costs before the event occurs
* Faster recover from an emergency
* Reduced on-hand emergency supplies
* Reduced insurance costs
* Combined training and exercise (NIMS compliance)
Currently, the 70+ participants are refining a standard/template agreement from AWWA.
The next meeting will occur on December 18 at
NOTE: As discussed, the mutual aid agreement currently under review was emailed to RWA members on November 19, 2008.
5. Equipment Resource Committee, Process for Radio Dispersal
Lou Dooley explained that the RWA’s application for 10 radios has made its way through the federal purchasing process and are expected to arrive after the first of the year. Larry Jones noted that the RWA has requested an additional 10 radios through the Equipment Resource Committee request process, for a total of 20. As a group, the RWA membership will need to decide which utilities will receive the radios. Those utilities with resources would be asked to purchase identical radios. David Troupe noted he will serve on the committee formed to make a radio dispersal recommendation to the membership and requested additional members.
6. Residential Fire Sprinklers Update.
7. WUCC Update
8. Associate Member
Larry Jones introduced David Finclay with FCS Group, noting FCS Group is currently assisting Firgrove. David introduced Angie Sanchez and
Randy Black asked about the challenges FCS Group sees as needing to be addressed currently by water utilities. David responded utilities must address increasing costs coupled with policy-makers’ sensitivity to increasing rates. David also noted that in the past, many
9. Other Business
Randy Black reported on a recent meeting he attended and suggested it is important for water utilities to Senators Cantwell and
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
November 18, 2008
FIRGROVE MUTUAL
ATTENDANCE SHEET
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Lou Dooley Pierce
Jim Harksen DOH ODW
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway Water 253-847-7547
Marshall Meyer RH2 Engineering
Randy Black
Mel Blackstone AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Kim Savage Apex Engineering
Angie Sanchez FCS Group
David Finclay FCS Group
Larry Jones Firgrove Mutual
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
October 21, 2008
1. The meeting started at 9:00 with self introductions.
2. Minutes of the August 2008 meeting were approved. (Moved by Dave Troupe; seconded by
3.
The Treasurer’s Report was approved. (Moved by
4.
Randy Black introduced the topic by noting the USGS Chambers-Clover Creek Basin Project’s end product will allow us all to manage the resources in the Chambers-Clover Creek watershed more effectively; a goal of the water utilities.
Ken Johnson and Wendy Welch provided information on the Project. The Project to characterize the groundwater flow system and how this system interacts with surface water features in the Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed began in 2006. To develop a hydraulic framework of the Watershed information related to the following is required: Groundwater/surface water movement and interactions; hydrogeology of the aquifers and aquitards, and; a water budget. Data from a network of 142 wells on a monthly monitoring cycle and 129 wells which were monitored once have been included in the Project. The information needed for the model is expected to be complete in 6 to 8 weeks. Ken Johnson requested information from water utilities regarding the location of springs around the area.
Russ Prior asked for information on the Project’s completion schedule. Ken Johnson responded that the conceptual model is expected to be completed in Jan 2009 for internal review by USGS, with the final completed in March 2009. The numerical model is scheduled to be completed for internal review in February 2010, with the final model completed in April 2010. The Technical Committee is planning on a stakeholder meeting to occur in January 2009.
5. Equipment Resource Committee Update. Randy Black noted that Larry Jones replaced
6. Municipal Law Update.
7. Residential Fire Sprinklers Update. Randy Black reported that a white paper exploring options for utilities when considering residential fire sprinklers is currently under review by the WUCC. Randy also noted that the ICC is mandating residential fire sprinklers in new residential construction beginning in 2010 and
8. South Sound Section Meeting Briefing. Randy Black noted that attendance at the first South Sound Section training session/meeting in four years was excellent, with approximately 65 in attendance. The next meeting will occur in January in the Lacey/Olympia/Tumwater area.
9. Other Business
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
October 21, 2008
FRUITLAND WATER
ATTENDANCE SHEET
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway Water 253-847-7547
Randy Black
Mel Blackstone AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Russ Prior PGG 206-329-0141
Scott Danielson JKA 253-539-1400
John Ryding DOH 253-395-6757
Ken Johnson USGS 253-552-1629
Wendy Welch USGS 253-352-1673
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
August 19, 2008
1. The meeting started at 9:00 with self introductions.
2. Minutes of the July 2008 meeting were approved.
3. Randy Black introduced the guest speaker, Dan Evans, the Executive Administration of Utilities Underground Location Center. Dan noted the UULC is not a locator agency, but rather is a nonprofit association that works for its membership by facilitating problems with others who damage underground lines. Anyone in
Three levels of acceptable locates exist: 1) The utility owns/operates the underground facility, finds it and marks it. 2) The utility owns/operates but can not find it – tells the contractor let’s talk. 3) If the underground facility is obvious, a locate does not need to occur. (For example, if a manhole cover exists.)
Dan noted that changes to the underground utilities regulations are currently being discussed including reworking the regulations for clarity purposes. He is interested in working with member utilities to ensure needs are met.
Dan also noted that the UULC has a new contract with its call center which may mean it will ultimately have to raise member ticket costs from $1.20 to $1.22. The change will allow more flexibility to be added to the tickets to account for different areas.
Dan can be reached at: UULC Attn: Dan Evans,
4. Katherine Brooks with Pierce County Public Works and Utilities reported that
Jill Van Hulle asked what sections of a water system plan are reviewed by the County. Katherine responded the County reviews land use information, service areas, fire flow and wellhead protection issues. Katherine noted the biggest problem she has seen is that service area boundaries submitted with water system plans do not match what the County has on record.
Randy Black requested a checklist of information the County requires to allow utilities to have their consultants specifically address those needs. Katherine commented that she has begun participating in pre-plan meetings with the Dept of Health and utilities and will continue to do so as a service not subject to the review fee.
5. Municipal Water Law.
6. Randy Black reported that a white paper is currently under development by the technical advisory group charged with making recommendations back to the legislation regarding residential fire sprinkler legislation. In October a final report is expected to be available.
7. Randy Black introduced Russ Prior and Jill Van Hulle with Pacific Groundwater Group. Russ noted he is one of the owners of PGG, having started with Hart Crowser as a hydrogeologist. Russ has done work with the City of
8. Other Business
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
August 19, 2008
SPANAWAY WATER
ATTENDANCE SHEET
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway Water 253-847-7547
Kim Savage Apex Engineering 253-473-4494
Mel Blackstone AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual 253-847-8617
Jill Van Hulle PGG 360-413-1510
Russ Prior PGG 206-329-0141
Katherine Brooks
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
July 15, 2008
1. Introductions were made.
2. The June meeting minutes were approved.
3. Proposed 2008-2009 Dues Structure:
Currently, the RWA provides monetary support to activities and/or organizations such as the Water Utilities Coordinating Council (WUCC), the Central Puget Sound Water Suppliers Forum, the Pierce County Water Festival and the newly developed RWA website. The 2008-2009 RWA budget also includes $1,000 for member training and $100 for administrative costs. Taken together the 2008-2009 RWA budget is $17,600. Without a dues increase, expected revenues from dues equals $13,550; with the increase, expected revenues from dues equals $17,000. Specifically, the Board is recommending increasing the cap for large utilities from $1,000 to $1250; the rate for small utilities from $20 per 100 connections to $25 per 100 connections, and; the associate membership from $125 to $250.
Prior to calling for a vote on the dues increase,
NOTE: ARTICLE III OF THE BYLAWS OF THE RWA STATES: “ONE THIRD OF THE MEMBERS OF THIS CORPORATION SHALL CONSTITUE A QUORUM OF ANY MEETING OF THE MEMBERS.” NINE UTILITIY REPRESENTATIVES AND SEVEN ASSOCIATE MEMBERS WERE PRESENT AT THE JULY 15, 2008 MEETING REPRESENTING A QUORUM.
3. RWA Website. Jonathan Chicquette and Dave Troupe provided a presentation on the new RWA website. The website address is PCRWA.org. Dave requested suggestions for the website.
4. Larry Jones noted that Ted Hardiman and Randy Black were not in attendance to provide an update on the work of the residential fire sprinkler committee.
5.
6. Katherine Brooks reminded that RWA that the Pierce County Coordinated Water System Plan will be discussed by the WUCC on
7. USGS Groundwater Modeling Project.
8. Associate membership presentation.
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
MEMBERSHIP MEETING
JULY 15, 2008
ATTENDENCE SHEET
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
Lou Dooley Pierce Co Dept of Emergency Management
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Marshall Meyer RH2
Mel Blackstone AHBL
Mike Krautkramer Robinson Noble Saltbush
Kevin O’Neil Washington Water Service Company
Denny Brooks Washington Water Service Company
Jennifer
Darold Woodward Brown and Caldwell
Jonathan Chicquette XSIVE1STUDIOS LLC
Dale Budzinski
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
June 17, 2008
1. The meeting started at 9:08 with self introductions.
2. Minutes of the May meeting were approved with the following change: “7. Roger Nottage reported the RWA Board has proposed the following meeting locations”
3. Randy Black reported that the Board discussed increasing the RWA dues. The current dues were last increased in 2002. The RWA started in the mid 1980s as an information exchange organization. Currently, the RWA is participating in activities such as the Water for Life children’s festival, regional conservation groups, the USGS Chambers-Clover Creek Study, emergency management planning, the Central Puget Sound Water Supplier’s Forum and NIMS training. Specifically, the Board is recommending increasing the cap for large utilities from $1,000 to $1250; the rate for small utilities from $20 per 100 connections to $25 per 100 connections, and; the associate membership from $125 to $250. It was noted that the RWA did not have a quorum at the meeting to make the decision.
David Troupe (Summit) moved to table the membership due increase to the July meeting. The motion was seconded by Jeff Johnson and approved by those present.
4. The (draft) RWA Annual Report, June 2007-May 2008 was handed out to the membership and Randy Black walked the group through it. Following Randy’s presentation, a request to include the members in the final version was made. Susan Clark noted she would finalize the Annual Report, including adding members, and would mail it out along with the dues notice, following the decision on whether or not to increase the dues.
5. Randy Black led a discussion regarding residential fire sprinkler legislation/committee work. During the 2006-2007 legislative session, Representative Simpson from the Kent area pushed a bill to address the situation of different water utilities charging different amounts for fire sprinkler service. The proposed bill caught the attention of the WUCC. The legislation that was ultimately passed was the formation of a technical advisory group made up of representatives of water utilities, fire sprinkler installers, fire marshals, building code officials and insurance companies charged with making recommendations back to the legislation Ted Hardiman serves as the representative for mutuals/coops. Thus far, the Committee has been focusing on educating each other on the issues. For example, the water utilities presented a “water 101” presentation, including answering why utilities charge different amounts for. Thus far all have learned that there is a big range in costs charged from both sides (water utilities and installers). A white paper is expected for review by the RWA in September.
6. Larry Jones provided an update on the Pierce County Emergency Management Equipment Committee activities. Homeland Security money is again available. This year, the process is slightly revised in that measuring progress on how grant money has been used in the past will occur. Larry requested input from the RWA regarding what types of programs with regional benefits is the RWA interested in pursuing money to implement? Last year’s request to obtain radios qualifies as a regional benefit.
Randy Black suggested requesting biological detection equipment. During the Orting event, city officials could not determine if the water was “safe”, but rather only that the water did not contain certain chemicals. Local labs do not have the capability of testing for all potential agents.
Standardized procedures for reporting to local, state and federal officials was also suggested.
Jeff Johnson suggested money to put on a local table top exercise to include water utilities, fire and law officials. Jeff also suggested money to address additional NIMs training requirements.
Larry noted he will request information regarding how to obtain the radios funded last year.
Additionally, it was suggested that Larry work with Susan to send out an email requesting additional suggestions from the RWA membership.
7. Jeff Johnson provided a report on the USGS Chambers-Clover Groundwater Study. Currently, USGS has 400 wells in their network. While the BC study for the area had 4 cross sections, the USGS study will have 6 primary and 40 smaller cross sections. Currently, the Conservation District has seen its costs associated with the project increase and would like to include $15,000 in the budget to cover District expenses.
Jeff Johnson also provided information on the recently released decision on the Municipal Water Law. The decision impacts non-municipal water systems (non-city) systems in particular. Outreach to Pierce County officials given the potential difficulty of providing water service into the future by mutuals/coops was discussed.
8. Other Business
Randy Black mentioned the upcoming 2010 AWWA Conference to be held in Tacoma, including a request to be involved in the anticipated 39 committees required to assist.
Katherine Brooks mentioned that the Pierce County Council will have a public meeting on June 24 to consider a resolution addressing WUCC membership. Katherine is anticipating waiting until September to have a WUCC meeting to discuss the CWSP. Jeff Johnson asked what the scope of the CWSP will be. Katherine responded she does not anticipate a full update of the CWSP, unless such a request is made by the WUCC. Instead, she is looking for some interpretation and/or direction in areas such as retail service area vs. CWSP service area and input regarding establishing a fee for water system plan review.
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
MEMBERSHIP MEETING
MAY 27, 2008
LAKEWOOD WATER DISTRICT
ATTENDENCE SHEET
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
Lou Dooley Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-4631
Jeff Johnson Spanaway Water 253-531-9024
Dave Matz AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District 253-588-4423
David Troupe Summit Water & Supply 253-537-7781
Joyce Chavez Fort Lewis 253-967-2837
Susan Clark Tacoma Water 253-502-8204
Geoff Dillard RH2 206-794-6607
Bill Davis Spanaway Water 253-847-7547
Luke Meyers Pierce County Emergency Man 253-798-7843
Larry Jones Firgrove 253-845-1542
John Knowles JKA Civil Engineering 253-539-1400
Tim Wells Spanaway Water 253-531-9024
Randy Black Lakewood Water District 253-588-4423
Tony Ching Apex Engineering 253-473-4494
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
May 27, 2008
1. The meeting started at 9:08 with self introductions.
2. Minutes of the April meeting were approved as written, motioned by Dave Troupe (Summit) and seconded by Ted Hardiman (Fruitland) passed unanimously.
3. Dave Troupe (
4.
5.
* Require rain sensors for commercial uses
* Timers for residential uses
* Encourage xeroscape
* Research and develop cleaner water
* Require low flow plumbing at restaurants
* 30 units of water residential cap
* Give Hose bib timers to residential customers
Dave Troupe reported that
Jeff Johnson noted that Spanaway has tiered rates with high rates for those using more than 7500 and has as its conservation goal, a ½ percent reduction per year.
Ted Hardiman reported that no one came to the public meeting held by Fruitland despite advertising the event. Instead, the Board and himself discussed conservation in a 1 ½ hour session. Ted noted in the beginning the Board grabbled with the difference between a goal and a measure. Fruitland’s conservation goal is a ½ percent reduction a year.
Dan Muir explained that
* A series of landscaping brochures
* A Clothes washer rebate program
* A Showerhead give away (to begin shortly; partnering with Tacoma Power and Puget Sound Energy)
Dan suggested partnering with gas or power providers on conservation programs where possible as both have regulations requiring energy savings. Tacoma Water recently finished a pre-rinse spray nozzle direct install program which was very successful.
Dean Cassinelli mentioned he joined Firgrove Mutual in November 2007. Firgrove did meet with representatives of Puget Sound Energy, but decided to implement a showerhead program on their own. Because Firgrove has approximately 200 customers who come in monthly to pay late bills Firgrove determined that reaching out to these customers as they come in the office is an effective way to provide conservation material, including showerheads. HDR recently quantified program savings for Firgrove. Currently Firgrove is working on a program to track bulk water use, requiring bulk water users to obtain a permit and call-in water use on a monthly basis. Firgrove now has 2 hydrants painted red and has requested customers to call in to the office if they see people obtaining water from the hydrants. Firgrove has discovered an important goal for them is to develop an internal mechanism to track what has not been tracked before.
Joyce Chavez with
Fred Foreman with the City of
6. Jeff Johnson reported that the monthly meeting of the USGS Chambers-Clover Groundwater Study was canceled. Jeff also provided a briefing of the recently held hearing on the Municiple Water Law. Jeff suggested if you have a water right that has not been used recently, put it to use. September marks 5-years since the passage of the Municiple Water Law.
7.
June –
July –
August – Spanaway Water
September –
October – Fruitland Mutual
November – Firgrove
8. Other Business
Katherine Brooks,
Brad Harp, TPCHD, reported that TPCHD is revising its water regulations and Larry Jones with Firgrove is on the committee formed to assist. Currently, Larry is working on defining “adequate water system”. Any input from RWA members should be directed to Larry.
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION
MEMBERSHIP MEETING
MAY 27, 2008
LAKEWOOD WATER DISTRICT
ATTENDENCE SHEET
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
Jeff Johnson Spanaway Water 253-531-9024
Brad Harp Tacoma Pierce County Health Department 253-798-2851
Ted Hardiman Fruitland Mutual Water Company 253-848-5519
Dave Matz AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
David Troupe
Darold Woodward Brown & Cauldwell Engineers 206-749-2230
Dean Cassinelli Firgrove Mutual 253-845-1542
Joyce Chavez
Fred Foreman City of
Scott Danielson JKA 253-539-1400
Doug Dovo Robinson, Noble & Saltbush 253-475-7711
Daniel Muir
Susan Clark
Jeff Hansen HDR 253-570-4410
Geoff Dillard RH2 206-794-6607
John Ryding DOH 253-395-6757
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES April, 15 2008
1. The meeting was called to order at Fruitland Mutual Water Company at 9:08-AM by Larry Jones, Vice Chair.
2. Self-introductions were conducted.
3. March 2008 meeting minutes – Three corrections to the March 2008 minutes were motioned by Dave Gaylord and seconded by Jeff Johnson to adopt the minutes as amended: 1) No motion or second to adopting the February Meeting Minutes was recorded – no one in attendance remembered and therefore the minutes will be silent to the motion and second; 2) Randy Black (through Roger Nottage) moved to amend the last sentence in Item #3 to read: “Jeff Johnson made the motion for the Board to authorize up to $5,000 to get the website set up and let the Board determine the content and procedures.”; and 3) Item #4 – Jeff Johnson reported that a mutual company is included as a participant on the legislative committee to discuss residential fire sprinkler systems. Motion carried
4. Financial Report. Roger Nottage provided the Treasurer’s Report for the first quarter of 2008 As of March 31, 2008, the RWA account balance was $39,785.73. There was $285.80 gained in earned interest (interest rates are dropping) and $3,546.79 withdrawn via checks. Jeff Johnson asked if the Washington Water Utilities Council Membership had been paid. Roger confirmed the payment was made in April, which does not show on this report ending March 31st. Jeff Johnson moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report; Marc Marcantonio seconded the motion; the Motion carried.
5. Web Site Update – David Troupe introduced Jonathan Chicquette who announced that the conceptual design of the Web Site is progressing. We have four pages available and we may not have enough to fill them. In response to the question, we don’t have to fill the entire four pages, we can “grow” into them by having two, then three, then four or more pages. The package comes with four pages. Proposed, page 1 will be the “Home” page with the name, logo, contact information, mission statement, etc.; Page 2 will be the Events/Calendar page; Page 3 could be a “News” page. A suggestion was made to include a list of the members of the RWA – the group felt this should be on the Home page. Other suggestions were utility activities, vendor demonstration presentations, a photo gallery (Photos would need to be screened before posting by the Board or a Committee); conservation information, water use efficiency information, cross-connection control information, leak detection, a USGS link and/or a status report on the basin study, Coordinated Water System Plan activities and proposals and announcements. Any other suggestions please forward to David Troupe at Summit Water & Supply at dtroupe@summitwater.org. Jonathan indicated he will develop the web site and bring a mock-up of the site back to the group before posting on the Web. Question was raised about the logo: 3 proposals were submitted but Randy Black wanted something that represented the Mt. Rainier outline. We are still open for ideas. Susan will email the three proposed logos out to the members.
RWA Membership Meeting April 15, 2008 Page 2
6. Legislative Update – Jeff Johnson – no change since last update. USGS Basin Study Update – Jeff Johnson – He missed the meeting, however reported that the USGS is continuing work on defining and modifying the “characterization” of the basin’s aquifers. Municipal Water Law – Jeff Johnson – Jeff explained DOE has positioned to seek active compliance with the Municipal Water Law requiring documentation of beneficial use of sources to meet the law’s definition of a “municipal water supplier”. The WWUC is notifying utilities to beneficially use water sources between now and next September. Inchoate water not used in the last 5-years could be subject to relinquishment if this DOE policy is accepted by the court. Many unresolved questions exist including their position on supplemental rights; the definition of “use” and the quantity and duration of use, and if irrigation is “beneficial” use. Marc Marcantonio indicated he felt DOE would be looking at the Qa annual values. Documentation just needs to show “use”. DOE’s position is part of the litigation to be argued May 23rd. Jeff Johnson indicated this will probably be a legislative issue to resolve
7.. Darold Woodward, Brown & Caldwell, introduced his company as an associate member of the RWA. Brown & Caudwell may be known as a wastewater consulting engineering firm, but wastewater is only 2/3 of the business. Water is the other 1/3 of B&C’s specialties. Matt Maring (not present today) leads the planning and design section, Bill Persich leads the water treatment and process area, Mike O’Neal specializes in system designs, infrastructure improvements and rehabilitation, and Darold heads up the instrumentation and SCADA system design, installation and start-up section. B&C is pleased to be a member of RWA and he will be available to discuss their services further.
8. Coordinated Water System Plan Process – Katherine Brooks – The Pierce County Coordinated Water System Plan (CWSP) was established in the ‘80’s and has been updated, the lat being in the late 90’s and needs to be updated again. Katherine is looking to tail the RWA meetings because the majority of the purveyors affected are members of the RWA. Plans are to kick the process off in June, so she is looking to host the RWA meeting in June. Jenifer Kropack and Richard Rodriguez will be invited. One of the issues needing addressing is the consistency in System Plans – whether it be a Group A Water System Plan or a Small Water System Management Plan, consistency in maps, mapping changes (not being reported to Water Programs) and consistency to ensure compliance with new definitions.
RWA Membership Meeting April 15, 2008 Page 3
Another issue is the Service Area conflicts. Through definitions in the Municipal Water Law, DOH has come out with two types of service area: the “retail” service area and the “system” service area. The retail area is where service exists, and the system area is the overall ‘service area’ the purveyor’s established area it is obligated to serve. The question of “duty to serve” became a discussion issue in attempt to define “timely” and “reasonable”. The state still hasn’t defined those terms. Examples were discussed to describe the situations. Other issues are the differences in mapping types (GIS, AutoCad, etc.) and the uses (General Public, purveyors, system maps vs. emergency management maps (e.g. reverse-911) Detail in the maps was discussed, it was decided that individual parcel is better and should be of sufficient detail. Showing the water lines/fire hydrants etc. becomes a security issue. Individual layers can be visible with different levels of security. Maps are an expensive issue for the CWSP.
8. Water Festival 2008 – Brad Harp, TPCHD reported on the 2008 Water Festival. They had 1200 kids this year (largest ever) with 83 volunteers – more than half were RWA members and associate members. A printed booklet was shown that recapped this year’s program. A couple of T-Shirts were left over and were there for the taking if anyone wanted on.
9. Shawn McCallister, PCDEM announced this was her last RWA meeting. She has taken a similar position with MultiCare. Luke Meyers will be taking her position and will attend the RWA meeting. 10. Ted Hardiman - Fruitland requested additional input on written policies for residential Fire Sprinkler Systems. Summit commented will submit their policy, Jeff Johnson acknowledge they had sent their, but he will follow up on the associated costs. This issue sprung from the Covington area where Covington Water District requires a separate connection and meter for a residential fire sprinkler system. A customer objected to the cost. Darold Woodword said the electrical people have attempted to solve their industry solutions as well, but have ended up in L&I’s (Labor & Industries) lap to solve the issues state-wide. Hearing no other issues to be brought before the membership, the meeting was adjourned at 10:15 AM by a Motion by Marc Marcantonio and seconded by David Troupe. Motion passed. Respectively Submitted Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP MEETING
APRIL 15, 2008 Fruitland Mutual Water Company
ATTENDENCE SHHET
Nolan Adams Apex Engineering 253-473-4494
Katherine Brooks Pierce Co Public Works & Utilities 253-798-6169
Johnathan Chicquette XSIVE 1 Studios, LLC 206-245-7672
Marty Crow Peninsula Light & Water 360-791-6499
Melissa English AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Jeff Johnson Spanaway Water 253-531-9024
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual Water Company 253-847-8617
Glen George Tacoma Water 253-502-8737
Brad Harp Tacoma Pierce County Health Department 253-798-2851
Ted Hardiman Fruitland Mutual Water Company 253-848-5519
Larry Jones Firgrove Mutual Water Company 253-845-1542
Marc Marcantonio Mt.View-Edgewood Water Co 253-863-7348
Dave Matz AHBL Engineers 253-383-2422
Shawn McCallister Pierce Co. Dept. of Emergency Mgt 253-798-7542
Roger Nottage Lakewood Water District 253-588-4423
Ken Phomas RH2 Engineers 360-676-0836
David Troupe Summit Water & Supply 253-537-7781
Darold Woodward Brown & Cauldwell Engineers 206-749-2230
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
1. The meeting was called to order, introductions made and a sign-in sheet passed around.
2. The March 2008 meeting minutes were approved.
3. RWA Website Development –
Website development was presented and discussed. Primary issues were: its function; posting meeting agenda items and meeting notices, and the ability to review minutes. Information about other websites was also mentioned, such as DOH and TPCHD links. Dave Troupe is the lead for this task. The following issues were discussed.
Front Page:
- need someone licensed with multiple copies of the software; then need to host it.
- have a server, where we’re communicating with it.
- need contact information; association members names.
- news, events, upcoming events such as Water 4 Life festival.
- list House Bill information and tracking.
- need responsibility for licensing issues and for maintaining the website.
- turned it over to Jonathan.
Jonathan stated the goal is to deliver a website that is functional with affective information, and where members can edit the contact information. He wants to keep it simple where there is no code required, with preview functions, and then easy posting to the website. He stated the website will have a 30-60 day delivery time, depending upon the scope of the project. He also mentioned a search field can be added; type-in information searching for then the item should pop up. Cost for a website runs $3,800-$5,000 depending upon the content management system. RWA needs to decide if they also blogging capabilities, archiving information and other options. Content Management where you can host or access information from the website; type in pdf documents and set up a choice where anyone can have access. He mentioned a
Randy Black stated that the input information should include: membership list; agency list; current events; House Bills; available membership information; and current information that members could obtain right away. Someone will need to monitor website content and decide what content is appropriate or not.
A motion was made for the Board to authorize up to $5,000 to get the website set up and let the Board determine the content and procedures. All approved.
4. Update- Water Use Accounting Coordination with Fire Districts –
Larry has been communicating with Keith Wright of Central Pierce Fire Department regarding fire hydrant use and water accountability in compliance with the Water Use Efficiency Rule. Larry submitted a draft Bulk Water Use form for Keith’s review and eventual use for all corresponding water districts. Larry has a follow up meeting with Keith for
House Bill 2575 Fire Sprinkler Systems in Private Residences: Jeff Johnson was invited on that committee, to help provide incentives, promoting fire sprinkler systems. Those agencies affected are: City water providers; PUD’s; Mutual Water Companies; Special Districts; Marc Marcantonio may be involved with Washington Utility Council, representing the RWA; Building Associations; DOH; DOE; Insurance Industry and the State Division of Fire Protection.
The RWA is considering forming a sub-committee to provide education and information regarding building fees/charges and how each utility handles fire sprinkler requirements and related fees. Plus delinquents and disconnects – what to do when someone does not pay their water bill– this could put fire system out of service. Need to further discuss notifications; separate fire sprinkler meters; meter maintenance; and liability issues. May need a policy from DOH on some of these concerns. Will utilities need to make changes?
5. Update- March 13, 2008 Water Meeting –
Next WARN Meeting; across the street from
Pierce County, Department of Emergency Management, Joint Terrorism Task Force regarding terrorism threats: per Marc, he reported the latest update: During 2006-07, there have been four actual threats to potentially contaminate water systems. He is asking water companies to be aware of this concern, and to report any suspicious activity. He suggested making sure; Water System Plans are secure, considering installing backflow devices at vulnerable areas.
NIMS/ICS/Interface Workshop: Per Jeff Johnson,
Security Training: Marc reported that he attended a two-day security-training course in
6. Update – South Sound Section AWWA –
An outline of goals and objective of the south sound section. The PNWS AWWA has 13 sections within
7. Legislative and USGS Modeling Study Update –
HB 3185 Financial provision assistance for water system acquisition and rehabilitation: Jeff Johnson reported that this HB would financially assist larger utilities acquiring smaller utilities. Approximately $9,755,000 to be administered by the Public Works Board. An SRF type of process that would go through the PUD to take over a smaller utility.
Chambers-Clover Creek USGS Model Project: Jeff Johnson provided an update. Currently, the USGS is evaluating the determination of cross sections within aquifers. They’re also looking gathering data and flow through the middle section of the watershed basin. Jeff stated that there is a lot of space in the middle, with a lot of activity. They still need the water use/activity information to be submitted by utilities, the USGS will need this information by Fall 08. They will need data such as pump tests on wells, research on wells, well production data, true static elevations, model reports, well head protection data, etc. Seepage evaluations and springs volumes are also being looked at. If anyone knows of major springs, let Jeff know. The USGS asked that Robinson/Noble participate more than once/month, to take a more active role in this study
8. Other Business
Lab Data Reporting: Jeff Johnson reported with a handout on this subject, regarding contaminant concentration and lab data, more specifically the non-detect levels vs. the range for lab reporting levels (LRL) and its compliance reporting requirements for certified laboratories. The LRL needs to get reported into the CCR. He discussed the state reporting requirements for Ecology Accredited Labs:
· Levels less than the MDL shall be reported as ‘non-detect’.
· Levels greater than or equal to the MDL but less than the LRL shall be reported as less than the LRL.
· Levels greater than or equal to the LRL shall be reported as measured.
(Along with conditions that apply.)
In addition, all chemistry samples to the lab requires placement onto ‘wet ice’.
Regarding pharmaceuticals in water: EPA has no methods for this evaluation. Best approach for telling customers: There is not an EPA certified methodology for this type of detection. We cannot verify the detects without a set of standards. The technology is there, if you have the money.
Endocrine disruptors: include pharmaceutical drugs, dioxin, PCBs, DDT, and some other pesticides. Typically measured downstream of wastewater treatment, and the change it has had on hormones and sex population of fish, reproductive organs related issues. Membrane technology is not enough to filter out pharmaceuticals.
Email from Katherine Brooks: Randy reported that Katherine is working on putting together a new resolution to go to the County Council. Katherine stated that she is “Re-establishing the WUCC to update with new information. She hopes to get this adopted in time to convene a WUCC meeting as a joint WUCC/RWA meeting on April 15th otherwise it will be the May RWA meeting. The goal is get feedback on the interpretation of the CWSP service area post the new WAC language implementing the Municipal Water Law and an opportunity to discuss any other outstanding issues.”
Russ Henderson’s Retirement: His retirement function will be held at the Pierce County Annex conference room, March 27, from .
Meeting adjourned at .
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING Email Address
Matthew Maring Brown & Caldwell Mmaring@brwncald.com
Jonathan Chicquette XSIVE1STUDIOS, LLC jonathan@zsive1.com
Mel Blackstone AHBL mblackstone@ahbl.com
David Matz AHBL Dmatz@ahbl.com
Tim Wells Spanaway Water twells@spanaway-water.org
Tony Ching Apex Engineering Ching@apexengineering.net
Nolan Adams Apex Engineering Adams@apexengineering.net
Rick Bieber Robinson Noble & Saltbush Rbieber@robinson-noble.com
Marshall Meyer RH2 Engineering Mmeyer@RH2.com
Jeff Johnson Spanaway Water Jnjohnson@spanaway-water.org
Darold Woodward Brown & Caldwell Dwoodward@brwncald.com
Brad Harp Tacoma-Pierce Co. Health BHarp@TPCHD.org
John Ryding DOH john.ryding@doh.wa.gov
David Troupe Summit Water dtroupe@summitwater.org
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Randy Black Lakewood Water District Rmblack@lakewoodwater-dist.org
Marc Marcantonio
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
February, 19 2008
1. The meeting was called to order and introductions were made.
2. The January 2008 meeting minutes were approved.
3. Financial Report. Randy Black provided the Treasurer’s Annual Report for 2008, prepared by Roger Nottage. As of December 31, 2008, the RWA account balance is $39,971.72. Randy also provided a Treasurer’s Report for the first half of 2008. The estimated account balance as of February 29, 2008 is $40,541.26.
4. TPCHD’s Natural Yard Care Program. Geoff Rinehart with TPCHD provided information regarding the Natural Yard Care Program, which he started for TPCHD in July, 2007. Three Natural Yard Care workshop series will occur this spring. The goal of the workshops is to raise awareness of the link between yard maintenance and the environment by educating attendees in best management practices for the yard and garden. Points of emphasis will include techniques to use fertilizers correctly, use water efficiently, select landscape plants that fit on-site conditions and provide allow for environmentally-sensitive maintenance, and provide less toxic options to conventional pesticides. Each series will consist of three separate evening workshops covering topics such as integrated pest management, natural lawn care, basic soils, home composting, environmentally-sensitive landscape design, and lawn and landscape water management. Workshops will be conducted in Lakewood, Tacoma, and South Hill. The South Hill workshop series is co-sponsored by Firgrove Mutual Water Co. Dates of the workshops will be: Lakewood- April 9, April 23, and May 8 at Lakewood City Hall Tacoma- April 16, April 30, and May 14 at Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium South Hill- May 15, 22, and 29 at South Hill library The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department Natural Yard Care program continues to seek cooperation with local water jurisdictions to co-sponsor future workshops in summer and fall, 2008. For more information please contact Geoff Rinehart, Natural Yard Care Program Coordinator, at 798-4587.
5. Water Utility Security. Shawn McCallister with the Pierce County Department of Emergency Management reminded RWA members that following the recent incidents involving Orting, Fircrest and Spanaway, water utilities have participated in large group meetings to discuss water security issues with the Pierce County Department of Emergency Management. Shawn would now like to work with a smaller sub-committee to develop goals/objectives for water security measures in Pierce County to answer the question: What can we do here in Pierce County to address water security measures? Shawn also explained that DOH is currently working on a state wide critical infrastructure plan, including water infrastructure, and she will be attending the group’s meetings to ensure whatever Pierce County does is consistent with the state-wide plan. Shawn introduced Jim Harksen with DOH, the lead for the state-wide process. Jim Harksen, DOH, is leading the Water Sector Coordinating Council which is working to develop a WARN program and a Water Sector Specific Plan for the State. A WARN is a network of utilities helping utilities during small, large or catastrophic emergencies. WARN programs include the use of a mutual aid and assistance agreement that allows utilities to cross jurisdictional boundaries to provide aid during and following an emergency. The Water Sector Specific Plan is a broad-based critical infrastructure protection implementation strategy for drinking water and wastewater utilities, their regulatory primacy agencies and the array of training and technical assistance partners that comprise the Water Sector. The plan describes processes and activities to assist drinking water and wastewater utilities as they strive to be better prepared to prevent, detect, respond to and recover from terrorist attacks, other intentional acts, natural disasters and other hazards.
The next meeting of the Water Sector Coordinating Council is March 13 at the Pierce Transit Training Facility from 9 to 12. All are invited.
Derek Pell, DOH provided an overview of the DOH, Northwest Regional Office, Emergency Response Program, June 2007, which provides a framework for DOH to assist in emergencies. The primary goals of DOH are to provide advice and recommendations regarding public health to local decision-makers, assess the condition of public water systems during an emergency event, and to assist water systems as they recover from an emergency. DOH anticipates there different levels of emergencies: 1) an isolated event; 2) a sub-regional incident; 3) a regional incident. Derek noted that the DOH Emergency Response number is 1 877 481 4901, and that DOH’s website contains useful emergency response plan information: http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/dw/Security/331-211_5-13-03_Emergency_Reponse_Planning_Guide.pdf.
Randy Black noted that as a result of the recent emergencies in Pierce County, the RWA learned that the public expects no errors from water utilities. Randy also suggested that each water utility needs to develop an emergency response plan and train employees in its implementation. Through participation in the Terrorism Early Warning Resource Committee, the importance of all RWA members becoming NIMS certified has been raised.
Please Note: Water utilities interested in working with Shawn McCallister agreed to meet immediately following the March RWA meeting.
6. Water Festival. Gary Porter explained that the Pierce County Water Festival is to occur for the 6th time at PLU on March 25. This year 13 schools and 1200 kids are expected. The event needs 47 people to serve as guides. The guides will take a group of students to the various classroom activities throughout the day. Gary also requested $800 from the RWA to assist with expenses. Randy Black noted the RWA Board authorized the expense.
7. Water Use Accounting Coordination with Fire Districts - Larry Jones noted that Firgrove has contacted the Central Pierce Fire District to begin a program to account for hydrant water use to allow Firgrove to calculate its accounted for/unaccounted for water use as required by the Municipal Water Law. The Fire District is interested in assisting, but has requested that one form be developed for use by all water utilities. Larry requested that utilities interested in helping to develop a standard form and working with the Central Pierce Fire District contact him. After a standard form is developed with the Central Pierce Fire District, outreach to other Fire Districts can occur.
8. Other Business. Jeff Johnson provided an update on the Chambers-Clover Creek USGS Model Project.
Randy Black noted that no other volunteers for filling the 2 vacant board positions were received, therefore Larry Jones is the new RWA Vice-President and Roger Nottage is back as the RWA treasurer. Randy Black noted he recently attended a NW Section AWWA Board of Trustee meeting in Portland (along with Ted Hardiman, Linda McCrea and Tim Ramsaur). All agreed to re-energize the South Sound Section. With the 2010 Conference in Tacoma, RWA members will be asked to assist. Randy also noted he wrote an article regarding the South Sound Section for the NW Section Newsletter. Randy will keep RWA up-to-date regarding the South Sound Section.
Katherine Brooks reported that the Gig Harbor service area meeting she described during last month’s RWA meeting is now on-hold. Instead, Katherine will be holding a WUCC meeting shortly to discuss the various definitions of service area (retail, CWSP, future etc.) to ensure water systems in Pierce County share the same understanding. The WUCC stands for (Pierce County) Water Utilities Coordinating Committee and is the committee responsible for developing the Pierce County Coordinated Water System Plan per State Law.
January 22, 2008 ATTENDANCE NAME REPRESENTING
Marc Marcantonio Mt View-Edgewood
Gary Porter TPCHD
Susan Clark Tacoma Water
Ted Hardiman Fruitland Water
Tim Wells Spanaway
Bill Davis Spanaway
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Larry Jones Firgrove
Marshall Meyer RH2 Engineering
Randall Black Lakewood
Katherine Brooks Pierce County
Dave Sherman Tacoma Water
Scott Danielson JKA
Jeff Johnson Spanaway
Glen George Tacoma Water
Gordon Aleshire Pierce County Planning
Diana Smith Tacoma Water
Betty Vance Valley Water District
Jim Harksen DOH ODW
Jim Jenkins Sheriff
Shawn McCallister PCDEM
Derek Pell DOH ODW
Glen Baker City of Milton
David Matz AHBL
Letticia Neal City of Milton
Geoff Rinehart TPCHD
REGIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION MINUTES
January 22, 2008
1. The meeting was called to order and introductions were made.
2. The October 2007 meeting minutes were approved.
3. CWSP Updating, Katherine Brooks,
4. Chambers-Clover Creek Model Project.
5. Recap: NIMS Training.
6. New RWA Representative: Terrorism Early Warning Resource Committee. With the retirement of
7. Associate Member - Marshall Meyer with RH2 Engineering presented information about the services offered by his firm, noting that many current RWA members are among RH2’s clients. The firm began in 1978 and now has 6 offices, with a 7th opening in the Tri-Cities. RH2 prides itself on providing clear and understandable plans, and uses color, photos and 3-D Auto-Cad design. Prior to the use of 3-D design, change orders were in the neighborhood of 10%, with 3-D design, change orders are at 1 ½ to 2 percent. RH2 can provide water rights assistance such as applications, changes and transfers, and is experienced in instream flow, hydraulic continuity and watershed planning issues. Currently, RH2 is working on
8. AWWA Pacific NW Section: South Sound Area Participation.
9. Other Business.
Marianne Seifert, TPCHD, provided information about the Health Dept’s Environmental Health Program, including the following:
Tracking and communicating environmental health measures and other information to the general interested public, policy makers, and others.
Web page: www.tpchd.org/ehindicators
Contact: Marianne Seifert, 253 798-3823, mseifert@tpchd.org
Pierce
Regional workgroups meeting monthly in Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula,
Web page: www.tpchd.org/ehpriorities
Contact: Marianne Seifert, 253 798-3823, mseifert@tpchd.org
Gary Porter, TPCHD, noted that the Health Dept is updating the TPCHD Land Use Regulations – Drinking Water Supply and Adequacy Requirements and are looking for one or two RWA members who may be interested in participating in three/four focus group meetings to discuss the revisions to the current land use requirements for drinking water supply and water adequacy requirements.
The volunteer(s) should be willing to commit to at least three meetings of approximately two hours each. Plus, provide feedback to reading materials that focus on the revision process and revision language. TPCHD expects to get started in early February and finish by the end of May or early June.
Contact: Gary Porter (253 798-6569 or Gporter@tpchd.org.
January 22, 2008
ATTENDANCE
NAME REPRESENTING
Gary Porter TPCHD
David Troupe
Susan Clark
Bill Davis Spanaway
Dave Gaylord Graham Hill Mutual
Marshall Meyer RH2 Engineering
Randall Black
Tim Ramsaur
Ron Knoll
Ed Bush City of
Kari Duncan City of
Barbara Sullivan City of
Tom Lindberg Murray, Smith & Associates (AWWA/PNWS)
Marjorie Koonie
Tony Ching Apex Engineering
David Matz AHBL
Mel Bladstone AHBL
Marianne Seifert TPCHD
Jennifer Royer City of
Stephen Harrington H&R Waterworks
John Knowles JKA Civil Engineering
Scott Danielson JKA
Steve Nelson RH2
Jim Bucknell RH2