Approved by the Board: September 26, 2006
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
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Friday, August 18, 2006
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The Board of Commissioners met in the Boardroom of the Administrative Offices, 1232 Haco Drive, Lansing, Michigan.
Present: Commissioners Gary Calkins, Ron Callen, Robert Cochran, Joseph Graves, Semone James), Santiago Rios, and Robin Smith.
(Note: 2nd Ward Vacancy exists.)
Absent: None.
The Secretary declared a quorum present.
Chairperson Smith asked all to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Chairperson Smith called the Special Meeting to order at 2:02 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mr. Cook, BWL ratepayer expressed his disappointment regarding the current state of affairs at the BWL and Commissioner leadership. He also stated that there are people at the BWL who are no longer effective and if so then perhaps they should leave. He went onto state that Lansing used to be the foundry capital of the world and technology ushered in and things changed. Mr. Cook also stated that residents are blessed to have a customer-owned utility and he would gladly donate to ‘Pennies for Power’ if the Board would support its customers.
Ifield Joseph, past vice chair and former commissioner stated that he is watching the Board’s actions and helping to keep the issues in the public eye. He also stated that he had sent a memo earlier that day in support of the General Manager. Mr. Joseph went onto state that he felt that the General Manager must be given the space and opportunity to do his job. He concluded by stating that although the Mayor appointed the newer Commissioners, the ratepayers are the owners and thereby, the true bosses of the institution.
Chuck Slammer stated that he was concerned that it appears to be too many chiefs and not enough Indians. He went onto to state that he looked at the organizational chart and believed that the BWL needed more workers, first line supervisors and fewer managerial barriers. Mr. Slammer also stated that he essentially wants to make sure that his water tastes right and that the electricity is on. He went onto state that the BWL should get out of the steam business. Mr. Slammer also stated that he was very disappointed in how the BWL is operating and that the focus should be on providing water and electricity.
Commissioner Callen stated that he was asked to deliver a message from Mark Fales, BWL employee of 36-years who was unable to attend the Board meeting. Commissioner Callen went onto state that Mr. Fales would like the Board to know that he supports the General Manager and has great respect for him and asks that the Board renew his contract.
Letter from former commissioner Ifield Joseph dated August 18, 2006 in support of the General Manager.
Received and placed on file.
Moved by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Rios to go into executive session to discuss a legal opinion presented by Melissa Jackson of Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C. protected by the Open Meetings Act exemption MCL 15.268(h). (2:15 p.m.). The roll was called.
Yeas: Commissioners Calkins, Callen, Cochran, Graves, James, Rios and Smith.
Nays: None
Absent: None
Carried unanimously.
Moved by Commissioner Calkins, seconded by Commissioner Smith, that the Special Board meeting return to open session.
Carried unanimously.
The Special Board meeting reconvened in open session at 3:42 p.m.
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Graves to move to authorize the Executive Committee to work with legal counsel in considering a resolution of a matter relating to the employment of the General Manager.
Action: Carried unanimously
None.
None.
Commissioner Graves stated that they operate as a Board and not individuals. He went onto state that he was concerned about the manner in which outside counsel was contacted without prior discussion involving the entire Board.
Commissioner Rios stated that historically the Board traditionally works together and many of the Commissioners have taken opportunity to meet with the General Manager as individuals on numerous occasions. He also went on to state that he supported the Chair in contacting outside counsel to gain a legal opinion regarding the matter at hand.
Commission Callen asked Amy Cavanaugh, General Counsel whether or not a single Commissioner is allowed to take action that incurs cost to the Board without their prior approval.
Ms. Cavanaugh stated that she was not prepared to answer such a question and would need time to research the issue and would provide a response to Commissioner Callen’s question at a later date.
None.
None.
On motion by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Rios, the special meeting adjourned at 3:57 p.m.
/s/ Rhonda Jones, Corporate Secretary
Filed with Lansing City Clerk
August 30, 2006