OWASA Board of Directors Meeting Summary for April 9

OWASA’s Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday, April 9, to consider an agenda that included updates on the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing budgeting process. The full agenda as well as other Board materials can be found here.

This was the first meeting of the full Board of Directors to take place virtually to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Pandemic Preparedness and Response

The Board received an update from staff on OWASA’s preparations and response to COVID-19. OWASA continues to take proactive measures to ensure we provide the Carrboro and Chapel Hill communities with high-quality and reliable water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of OWASA staff have moved to working remotely or on-call hours; OWASA’s administrative office is closed to the public; recreation season has been postponed; and measures are in place to limit in-person interaction.

Insurance Rates

The Board received information on OWASA employee health and dental insurance. A Gallagher representative provided the Board with information regarding health and dental plan renewals as well as establishing next steps.

Budget

Staff provided the Board with an update on the development of the Fiscal Year 2021 Budget, including the adjustments that would need to be made if a planned rate increase is not implemented. A public hearing will be held before a final Board vote scheduled for June.

Next Meeting

The Board will hold its next meeting remotely on Thursday, April 23, 2020, via Microsoft Teams at 6 p.m.; a link will be provided here.

OWASA’s administrative office is closed to the public to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Customers in need of assistance can still contact OWASA from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday by calling (919) 968-4421, emailing customerinquiries@owasa.org, or using the chat function available in the bottom-right corner of the web page. Please allow for additional time for OWASA staff to respond during this time. We appreciate your patience.