The council’s primary concern centered on the SCADA system’s security weaknesses, which had resulted in operational failures, including two critical wells going offline. A city employee’s investigation, with assistance from Hydro Service, exposed these vulnerabilities, emphasizing the system’s importance for operating pumps and maintaining water pressure. Hydro Service was present to propose a $35,000 solution to connect and automate five well sites, a step deemed urgent for safeguarding the city’s water supply.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the cybersecurity risks associated with the SCADA systems. A participant raised alarms about the potential for hacking, noting similar incidents in other municipalities. This concern was exacerbated by reports of a lift station being left unsecured, exposing it to possible cyber threats. The council debated whether the integration of SCADA systems with the Internet of Things (IoT) might be increasing these risks.

The council also scrutinized the city’s contract with Enlighten, the company responsible for the SCADA installation. The absence of a formal contract and ongoing issues with the system’s performance prompted discussions about possible legal actions. There was consideration of escalating the matter to higher authorities, such as the Attorney General’s office, given indications of fraudulent activities and deceptive trade practices. Legal counsel expressed doubt about the effectiveness of seeking an injunction.

Financial considerations were also a focal point. The council deliberated on how to fund the necessary SCADA upgrades, with a proposed allocation from the city’s budget. This fund had previously been merged with the operating budget without adequate oversight, necessitating clearer financial reporting in future meetings.

In addition to addressing immediate technical and financial concerns, the council emphasized the need for proper training for city employees on the new SCADA systems once upgrades were completed. Ensuring that staff were prepared to manage these systems effectively was seen as important to maintaining the integrity of the city’s infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the urgency of implementing the proposed solutions and a commitment to ongoing oversight of the SCADA systems. The council stressed the importance of transparent communication among members and staff to ensure that all concerns are addressed swiftly. The logistics of invoicing and payment terms were clarified, with assurances that the city would adhere to local government prompt pay statutes, paying only for services rendered upon completion.