The most pressing topic at the Franklin Sewerage Authority Committee meeting was the presentation of the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. The executive director emphasized that the budget was designed to remain flat concerning revenue and appropriations. It forecasts a 2% increase in revenue and a 1.4% decrease in appropriations. The budget includes a Municipal Appropriations allocation of $600,000, which could be instrumental in preventing an increase in sewage bills for residents. The executive director pointed out the challenges of a non-discretionary appropriation budget, with a portion going to external entities, making cost reductions difficult.

Discussions on financial matters took center stage, with the committee debating the authority’s ability to invest in financial instruments to maximize interest earned on cash reserves. This is important for the authority’s capability to fund future projects. Concerns about the transparency of budget discussions were raised, and the executive director clarified that the budget was introduced at the meeting and would be open for further discussion and public input at the subsequent meeting. This debate underscored the importance of adhering to procedural requirements and ensuring public engagement in the budget approval process.

Another agenda item was the closure of bonding and short-term loan bonding with the Bank of New York, with all projects reported to be completed within or below budget. This financial management is indicative of the authority’s prudent oversight of fiscal matters. The committee also discussed a land acquisition from PNG, which is pending a land appraisal, intended for the expansion of the Shirley Avenue Pump Station footprint. The ongoing process of updating the developers’ agreement and increase of the connection fee, according to the auditor’s calculations, was another important point of discussion.

The committee addressed staffing updates, including the retirement of a receptionist and the onboarding of a new bookkeeper who is still in training. They reported positive feedback from the public regarding the engineering staff and the customer service provided. However, there was uncertainty around the procedures for receiving the ARP money grant from the county and the municipality.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of several resolutions, including those for refunding monies received in error, executing a developers’ agreement, and authorizing a land appraisal for the Shirley Avenue Pump Station project. Additionally, the committee approved a late fiscal budget resolution and an adjustment in the authority’s sewer connection fee. There was no need for a closed executive session, and the meeting was closed with all formal proceedings completed.