Approved by the Board: September 26, 2006
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ REGULAR MEETING
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
______________________
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
______________________
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 meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
By motion of Commissioner Calkins, seconded by Commissioner Callen the minutes of the May 23, 2006 regular meeting were unanimously approved.
By motion of Commissioner Calkins, seconded by Commissioner Callen the minutes of the May 23, July 11-12, and July 18, 2006 special meeting were unanimously approved.
Commissioner Smith welcomed new Corporate Secretary, Rhonda Jones.
There being no objection, Chair Smith announced that the order of business was being modified to accommodate guests.
A. City’s Grant of Two Easements to the Stadium District Project
RESOLVED, The Board of Commissioners hereby approves the City’s grant of two easements, Easement for Ingress/Egress and Associated Improvements and Easement for Garbage Receptacles, to Stadium District Partners, LLC, as permitted by the Lansing City Charter (8-403(.5)).
Background: The Board of Commissioners in accordance with the City Charter is responsible for approving easements that affect property being utilized by the Lansing Board of Water and Light.
Brandie Ekren, Associate Attorney, presented an overview of the City’s proposed grant. The City of Lansing entered into a buy/sell agreement for the Stadium District Partners, LLC. As a part of that agreement, easements are necessary from both sides. The City would like to grant two easements to Stadium District Partners, LLC.
Ms. Ekren, with the concurrence of the General Manager, recommended that the Board of Commissioners approve said grant.
The Board of Commissioners has been advised of the necessity of such a resolution and had an opportunity to discuss its merits.
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Calkins, to adopt Resolution 2006-7-3 regarding the City’s Grant of Two Easements to the Stadium District Project.
Action: Carried unanimously.
B. Declaring Intent to Reimburse Project Expenditures with Bond Proceeds and Authorizing Publication of Notice of Intent to Issue Bonds.
Dennis McFarland, Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration, presented a reimbursement resolution to use for all capital expenditures. The reimbursement resolution would allow the Board of Water and Light to avoid using operating dollars for capital projects. The bond proposal provides flexibility in financing capital projects.
Mr. McFarland, with the concurrence of the General Manager, recommended that the Board of Commissioners adopt the reimbursement resolution with bond proceeds.
The Board of Commissioners has been advised of the necessity of such a resolution and had an opportunity to discuss its merits.
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Calkins, to adopt Resolution 2006-7-4 for Declaring Intent to Reimburse Project Expenditures with Bond Proceeds and Authorizing Publication of Notice of Intent to Issue Bonds.
Action: Carried unanimously
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Joseph Davis, Business Manager of IBEW Local 352, addressed the Board in regards to the union survey being presented later that evening and the issues facing the Board of Water and Light. Mr. Davis asked that the Commissioners focus on the entire survey and not just specific items. He also stated that employees are deeply concerned about the organization and desire to address the issues and move forward in a positive manner. He is not advocating the removal of any individual, as that authority is the responsibility of the Commissioners. However, it is his charge to bring union membership concerns to the Commissioners in an effort to work together to resolve those concerns for the betterment of the organization.
Commissioner Graves asked if completed copies of the survey results were available. Mr. Davis responded that they would be forthcoming upon the arrival of Mr. Joe Ross, Communications and Research Inc.
Ron Byrnes, BWL retiree, advised the Board that he had responded to City Council, the Commissioners and the Mayor in regards to an anonymous letter sent by a BWL retiree. He asked the Commissioners not to give a letter any significant creditability when the author does not sign it.
James Hooker, BWL employee and member of IBEW Local 352 stated that according to the Grand Ledge Independent newspaper, the BWL delivered a bill to Delta Township in the amount $460,000. According to the article the charges were regarding pole relocation fees. However, per the article when inquires were made of the BWL no one returned their calls. Mr. Hooker felt that it was unacceptable for something of this nature to occur from a utility that wants to be the only utility that its customers will accept.
Mr. Hooker also stated that in the past few months, Joe Davis, Business Manager of IBEW had come under personal attack from current employees, fellow IBEW members and a former Commissioner. He is incensed over these attacks and finds it absurd that things of this nature are being orchestrated in light of our new public relations appointment, a former Lansing State Journal employee. He finds Mr. Davis’ character to be exemplary and above reproach. He hopes that the Commissioners will look at the media and take into account some of items being reported.
Two letters were received from an anonymous BWL Retiree dated May 6, 2006 and July 24, 2006, both expressing concerns for the BWL.
Received and placed on file.
A letter was received from Ron Byrnes, BWL Retiree dated July 13, 2006 regarding a prior letter from another BWL retiree.
Received and placed on file.
A letter was received from BWL Management dated July 14, 2006 urging the reappointment of Sanford Novick, General Manager.
Received and placed on file.
A letter was received from Judith Gapp dated July 18, 2006 requesting the relocation of BWL’s utility poles from the current storage area near the Lansing river trail to a different location.
Commissioner Smith indicated that the letter had been received and forwarded to Management. General Manager, Sanford Novick commented that they were already in the process of contacting Ms. Gapp and had left messages regarding her concerns. Management is in the process of researching possible ways to accommodate the request if feasible. Commissioner Rios had also received an
email from Ms. Gapp regarding this matter, which was forwarded to management. Commissioner Cochran was on the river trail 10-days ago and had a conversation with City employees who patrol the trail for safety purposes and trash pick. They also made mention of the poles location as well as trash accumulating along the fence line on the Board of Water and Light’s side of the property.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT
Commissioners Present: Ron Callen, Robert Cochran and Semone James.
The Nominating Committee met
on June 20, 2006 at 9:30 a.m. to review Commissioner survey responses for
consideration of Board officer nominations.
The Nominating Committee recommends the following slate of officer candidates for Fiscal Year 2006-07:
|
Chair: |
Robin Smith |
|
Vice Chair: |
Santiago Rios |
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:40 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
NOMINATING
COMMITTEE
Semone James, Chair
Motion by Commissioner James, second by Commissioner Cochran, to approve the report as presented.
Discussion: Commissioner Callen expressed concern over the issue of repeating the Chair position. Although, he considers Commissioner Smith a personal friend, he does not support the concept of failing to rotate officers. He believes that everyone is capable of doing the work and as such should be given opportunity to do so. Commissioner Callen also stated that it violates rule 9.2.3 in the Rules of Practice which states that the commissioners should endeavor quote, unquote to rotate the chairmanship.
Commissioner Calkins stated that he would not vote to re-elect Commissioner Smith as Chair because he does not support her management style. He also believes that the Chair position should be rotated and that all of the Commissioners are capable of handling the position.
Commissioner Rios stated that he wholeheartedly supports Commissioner Smith as Chair. He is pleased with her leadership and the direction of the board. He feels that it is important to maintain continuity during a time in which many important issues will be addressed. He supports Commissioner Smith repeating as Chair and has accepted the nomination for Vice Chair.
Commissioner Smith indicated that it is not a violation of the rules to repeat as Chair. In fact, the Board has had periods in which the Chair served for multiple years.
Commissioner Graves stated that he took exception to the Chair nomination primarily due to the issue of repeating a 3rd term. He does not believe that there are any valid reasons, continuity included, that the Chair position should not be rotated. Although, he did not submit his name for consideration he is confident that everyone is capable of serving in that capacity. Per Mr. Graves, if you review years past, one would see that there have been periods in which a Chair served for one year or several. Nevertheless, he believes that it is only fair that each sitting Commissioner have equal opportunity to set the agenda and manage the business of the Board.
Commissioner Cochran stated that he believes Commissioner Smith is not following the agenda of others; she addresses conflicting topics, and works to do what is in the best interest of BWL. Therefore, he supports Commissioner Smith continuing as Chair.
Commissioner Smith indicated that the Board of Commissioners has a process that is utilized in the nomination and election of officers. Any individual interested in serving can submit their name to the Nomination Committee at which time the committee brings forth their recommendation.
Commissioner Graves asked the Nominating Committee to explain their rationale for recommending that someone serve for multiple years.
Commissioner James answered the question by indicating that it is not in the best interest of the Board to move officers in light of the current decisions that need to be addressed. She is pleased with Commissioner Smith’s ethics and level of professionalism. She also appreciates her avoidance in making malicious statements to the media. Commissioner James believes that Commissioner Smith is extremely professional and handles the business of the Board accordingly.
Commissioner Cochran pointed out that two names were submitted for consideration to hold the position and the Nominating Committee made its selection of the two.
Following lengthy discussion, a roll call vote was taken and the motion to appoint Commissioner Smith as Chair and Commissioner Rios as Vice Chair carried.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Voting Aye: Cochran, James, Rios, Smith
Voting Nay: Callen, Calkins, Graves
Absent: None
Resolution-2006-7-6
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT
June 27, 2006
The Committee of the Whole of the Board of Water and Light met at the Executive
Offices, Lansing, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on, Tuesday, June 27, 2006.
Commissioner Santiago Rios called the meeting to order and asked the secretary to call the roll. The following members were present: Commissioners Gary Calkins, Ron Callen, Bob Cochran, Joseph Graves, Jr., Semone James, Santiago Rios, and Robin Smith.
Public Comment
There were no public comments.
GENERAL MANAGER’S PERFORMANCE REVIEW AND PROCESS
The Commissioners had lengthy discussion on the process to be used for General Manager Sanford Novick’s performance review. The previous year’s evaluation form, as well as a form that Commissioner Rios obtained at the APPA Conference, and the BWL Balanced Scorecard were discussed. Commissioner Graves suggested considering the process to be used for all three board appointed positions at this time, and not just that of the general manager. The general manager will have the opportunity to do a self-evaluation and each of the commissioners will also evaluate him; a meeting will be held to review each point of view.
BOARD RETREAT AND STRATEGIC PLANNING
Discussion was held on holding a board retreat. Commissioner Rios handed out a copy of a power point presentation on governance boards role in strategic and financial planning from the APPA National Conference held recently in Chicago. Commissioners were all invited to submit topics for the retreat agenda. Suggested topics include: Evaluating commissioners performance as a board
· Define commissioner’s role as a board versus management
· How the board interacts with management in accomplishing in setting and accomplishing objectives for the organization
· Key items that need to be addressed
· How commissioners should be functioning as a board
· How commissioners should interact with management
The name of Jeff Tarbert was suggested as a possible facilitator for the retreat because of his years of experience working with boards. The Executive Committee with meet to work on developing the scope and framework for the board retreat so that the facilitator has a framework from which to work from.
RECOMMENDATIONS ON ITEMS IN THE MAYOR’S LETTER, DATED MAY 25, 2006
Discussion was held on Mayor Virg Bernero’s letter dated May 25, 2006. Most of the items have been responded to – call monitoring has been suspended, items related to Mr. Kus have been sealed. The only items left for discussion are hiring freezes and the number of board meetings to be held during the year. The board meeting schedule is set each year and the schedule is determined by the commissioners. Several years ago, the commissioners agreed to meet bi-monthly with committee meetings being held the alternate months. The city charter states that the board has to meet and the board votes annually on the meeting schedule. In responding to the mayor letter, a letter will be sent by stating the items have been addressed and the only pending item is the number of board meetings and this will be addressed in the upcoming board retreat. The letter will also state that 54 meetings have been held during the past two years to discuss current issues.
REVIEW BID TABULATION AND PROPOSALS FOR PROVIDER OF TEMPORARY INTERNAL AUDITOR SERVICES
Two bids were received for the provider of temporary internal audit services. Discussion was held on the two firms and whether to go ahead and hire a temporary internal audit firm or concentrate on hiring a full time internal auditor. A list of items that the temporary internal audit firm needs to address has to be established prior to hiring a firm. The suggestion was made that the executive committee determine recommended areas of involvement. In addition to financial concerns, the internal auditor needs to look at safety, production and performance issues also.
Respectfully submitted,
Santiago Rios
Committee of the Whole
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Graves, to receive the Committee of the Whole Report as presented.
Action: Carried unanimously.
Resolution-2006-7-7
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
JULY 17, 2006
The Executive Committee met on Monday, July 17, 2006 at 9:00 am to discuss two items – City’s Grant of Two Easements to the Stadium District Project and Review of Bid Tabulation and Proposals for Provider of a Human Resources Audit.
Present: Commissioners Smith, Calkins, Graves and Rios.
CITY’S GRANT OF TWO EASEMENTS TO THE STADIUM DISTRICT PROJECT
At the executive committee meeting the Commissioners considered, (in accordance with the City Charter) whether they would approve the City's grant of two easements to Stadium District Partners LLC. The Board of Commissioners recommended the two easements to the Board meeting for approval provided the easements were edited to include language, which articulated their approval was as an accommodation to the City and assumed no liability. The Commissioners also wanted to add more specific language relative to the notification of a breach of the terms of the easement.
The Commissioners also inquired about whether or not parking study had been conducted which would evaluate the developments impact on parking. David Christian (the undersigned engineer for the Stadium District) advised that he would try to obtain a copy of that study for the BWL's reference.
REVIEW BID TABULATION AND PROPOSALS FOR PROVIDER OF A HUMAN RESOURCES AUDIT
Robert Forester, Material and Services Management Department, presented information on the two bids that were received relative to the provider of the Human Resources Audit. Ten requests for proposal were mailed and two bidders responded. After reviewing the bid tabs, the commissioners requested that Bob Forester set up a meeting for the vendors to make a presentation to the board. Two times were suggested – Tuesday, July 25 at 4:00PM prior to the Board Meeting or Monday, July 24 at 9:00. Bob Forester will contact the vendors to set the time.
JOINT MEETING WITH CITY COUNCIL AND BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT COMMISSIONERS
Discussion was held on the tentative meeting scheduled on July 18 between City Council and Board Commissioners to discuss litigation. After a conference call with Melissa Jackson from Foster, Swift, it was determined that Amy Cavanaugh, BWL Legal Counsel, will contact Brigham Young, City Attorney, to determine the legal issues to be discussed.
Respectfully submitted,
Robin Smith, Chair
Motion by Commissioner Graves, seconded by Commissioner Callen, to receive the Executive Committee Report as presented.
Action: Carried unanimously
Resolution-2006-7-8
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT
The Committee of the Whole of the Board of Water and Light met at the Executive
Offices, Lansing, beginning at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 18, 2006.
Commissioner Smith called the meeting to order and asked the acting secretary to call the roll. The following members were present: Commissioners Gary Calkins, Ron Callen, Robert Cochran, Joseph Graves, Jr., Semone James, Robin Smith. Commissioner Santiago Rios entered the meeting at 2:15 p.m.
Public Comment
Mr. Joe Davis, Business Manager for IBEW Local 352 discussed contract negotiations. He stated that the union would like to keep the current language but look at having more partnership language and would also like to work on Book B to the contract.
He stated the union had performed an employee survey that he would like to present to the Commissioners.
Commission Smith stated they would discuss it at and an Executive or Committee of the Whole Meeting.
Moved by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Calkins that the Board convene in closed session to discuss negotiations of a collective bargaining agreement.
Approved by roll call vote:
Yes: Commissioners Calkins, Callen, Cochran, Graves, James and Smith
Nays: None
Absent: Commissioner Rios
Moved by Commissioner Calkins, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to return to open session (4:35 p.m.)
Adopted unanimously.
Rick Daly will be the chief Negotiator.
No action was taken.
Respectfully submitted,
Santiago Rios
Committee of the Whole
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Cochran, to receive the Committee of the Whole report as amended.
Action: Carried unanimously
Resolution-2006-7-9
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT
July 24, 2006
The Committee of the Whole of the Board of Water and Light met at the Executive Offices, Lansing, beginning at 9:00 a.m., Monday, July 24, 2006.
Commissioner Santiago Rios called the meeting to order and asked the secretary to call the roll. The following members were present: Commissioners Gary Calkins, Ron Callen, Bob Cochran, Joseph Graves, Jr., Santiago Rios, and Robin Smith.
Absent: Semone James
Mr. Joe Davis, Business Manager for IBEW Local 352 expressed his appreciation to the Board of Commissioners for going forth with the HR audit. He hopes that the audit will be conducted in an autonomous manner.
Mr. Davis also indicated that the IBEW union survey results were complete and that he would like to add this late item to the next Board Meeting agenda. The presentation should take approximately 15 – 20 minutes and will be conducted by the third party surveyors.
Following discussion the Commissioners agreed that the item be added as new business at the next Board Meeting scheduled for July 25, 2006.
CONDUCT FACE-TO-FACE INTERVIEWS WITH VENDORS FOR HUMAN RESOURCES AUDIT
The first interview was conducted with Ed Nesvig and Carleen Nelson-Nesvig of Bee Tree Consulting Ltd. Presentation materials were reviewed and a question/answer session followed.
The second interview took place with Michael S. Goree of Growth Strategies Consulting, Inc. Mr. Goree explained his presentation and a question/answer session also followed.
The Commissioners agreed to schedule a Special Meeting on August 14, 2006 at 9:00 a.m. to award the RFP to the respective vendor and to thereafter, conduct the General Manager’s performance evaluation.
Mr. Joe Davis, Business Manager for IBEW Local 352 indicated that he has a lot invested in having the truth revealed as he is accountable to 430 bargaining employees. He also stated that he is always looking out for the best interest of the BWL.
The meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Santiago Rios, Chair Pro Tem
Committee of the Whole
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Calkins, to receive the Committee of the Whole Report as presented.
Action: Carried unanimously
Resolution-2006-7-10
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT
July 25, 2006
The Board of Water and Light’s Committee of the Whole met at the Executive Offices, 1232 Haco Drive, Lansing, Michigan, on Tuesday, July 25, 2006 at 4:00 p.m.
Commissioner Rios called the meeting to order and asked the Secretary to call the roll. The following Commissioners were present: Gary Calkins, Ron Callen, Robert Cochran, Semone James, and Robin Smith.
Absent: Commissioner Joseph Graves
There were no public comments.
CITY’S GRANT OF TWO EASEMENTS TO THE STADIUM DISTRICT PROJECT
Associate Attorney, Brandie Ekren asked the Board of Commissioners to consider approving the City’s grant of two easements to Stadium District Partners, LLC as permitted by the Lansing City Charter. Representatives of Stadium District Partners, LLC, Attorney, John Fifarek of Lasky, Fifarek and Hogan and Engineer, David Christian of DC Engineering, were present to answer questions in regards to the project. The Board of Commissioners recommended the two easements, as edited, to the Board meeting for approval.
Motion by Commissioner Calkins, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to move the item to the July 25, 2006 Board agenda under Manager’s Recommendations.
Action: Carried unanimously
DECLARING INTENT TO REIMBURSE PROJECT EXPENDITURES WITH BOND PROCEEDS AND AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF INTENT TO ISSUE BONDS
General Manager, Sanford Novick asked the Board of Commissioners to consider approving bond proceeds that will be used for capital improvements. The permit allots for an issuance of up to $40 million bonds while fiscal year 2007 only calls for a $35 million issue. The general terms can be up to 40 years with an interest rate as high as 10%. The bond amount and interest rate allows flexibility in how the bond will be used.
Motion by Commissioner Calkins, seconded by Commissioner Smith to move the item to the July 25, 2006 Board agenda under Manager’s Recommendations.
Action: Carried unanimously
The meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Santiago Rios, Chair ProTem
Committee of the Whole
Discussion: Refer to information under Manager’s Recommendations.
None.
Joe Ross of Communications and Research, Inc. was introduced by Joseph Davis, Business Manager of IBEW Local 352 to present the results of the Union Member Survey.
Commissioner Smith requested that copies of the survey be circulated to the Commissioners and the management team.
Mr. Ross then proceeded to state that he hoped the results would be used as a catalyst for discussion and to shed light on the opinions of union members within recent months.
Commissioner Rios asked Mr. Ross to share some of his background information with the Commissioners. Mr. Ross stated that he is a partner at Communications and Research Inc., which is a public relations and research firm that has been in business for 18 years. They specialize in surveys for market research, economics, employment and workforce growth. They have worked with the Federal Reserve, colleges, Chamber of Commerce, local units of government and state government. Leaders of the BWL Local 352 asked their consultants, the Rossman Group in early June to write and distribute a survey to the union membership. The survey was posted online with a testing service and members were notified via a promotional flier, union stewards handed out copies and they were also sent to each union member. In addition, employees were encouraged to visit the site or fill out a paper copy. Strict scientific survey procedures were not adhered to primarily because the respondents were not randomly selected. Mr. Ross stated that it is important to note that 147 responses were received of a possible 415 eligible union employee participants. In his opinion, this provides a good compass rating of thoughts relative to BWL management. The Rossman Group collected the data and asked Communications and Research Inc. to condense the information into a two page executive summary.
Commissioner Graves asked Mr. Ross to provide more detail into what was meant by “a thoughtful manner”, and to also speak to the statement regarding a “compass reading of management” in light of the fact that according to Mr. Ross the survey is not “statistically valid”.
Mr. Ross stated that there were two types of surveying and one is scientific. People are randomly selected and then called to voluntarily participate in a survey. This is considered extremely valid. For example, the research work that he does with the Federal Reserve can be differentiated and voter survey’s can be boiled down to +/- 3 or 4% of 6% provided it is still a volunteer survey, which makes it very valid.
Commissioner Graves then responded by asking how were members made aware of the opportunity to participate in the survey? Mr. Ross proceeded to read a statement of the survey results that included information regarding their methodology.
Commissioner Graves expressed concern over the lack of scientific precautions taken to avoid duplicate entries and prevent those ineligible to participate from taking the survey.
Commissioner James asked why Commissioner Smith’s name was left out of the Commissioner evaluations being that a statement was made in regards to her.
Kelly Rossman of the Rossman Group stated that there were some open ended questions in which Commissioner Smith’s name could have appeared in the response.
Jim Dravenstatt, BWL employee, stated that he answered the questionnaire online and her name was listed with the other Comissioners.
Commissioner Rios stated that the survey was scanned and sent to the Commissioners but they had not received an original copy.
As a point of clarity, Commissioner Smith requested that a complete copy of the original survey be forwarded to the Commissioners as she has neither seen a copy nor received one.
Commissioner Smith thanked Mr. Ross for presenting the report. She also thanked the union for using a third party to gather and issue the information and for their courage in sharing their opinions. Per Commissioner Smith, all information is useful in helping the Board to fulfill its obligations.
Mr. Davis commented that although the numbers are difficult to hear they wanted to stress that these do represent the perceptions of those employees who responded. He went onto to state that he understood questioning of the methodology and validity of the survey but he would like to move on by addressing these issues in a productive manner.
Commissioner Rios also thanked the union for providing this information that he believes will be helpful in making the BWL a more efficient and productive work environment. He also stated that they have been dealing with perception issues for over 2-years and that is one of the reasons why they unanimously agreed to conduct the HR Audit, which will allow them to address those issues.
A copy of the survey results and Mr. Ross’ credentials are filled with the permanent minutes in the Corporate Secretary office.
Resolution-2006-7-11
BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
RESOLUTION HONORING TIM HAGGART
WHEREAS, it is a pleasure to extend this expression of our thanks and best wishes to Tim Haggart for his service as a Commissioner of the Board of Water and Light. This Board wishes to acknowledge his many contributions to the Board of Water and Light, the City of Lansing and its citizens, and
WHEREAS, Tim Haggart was appointed to the Board of Commissioners in July 2001 as an at-large member and was later reassigned to the second ward in 2005. During his tenure on the Board he briefly served as Chair Pro Tem and also chaired the Human Resources Committee from 2002 through 2004, and the Nominating Committee in 2003. He also served as a member of the Board’s special committee to address water main construction issues associated with water customer choice in 2002, and
WHEREAS, Tim Haggart’s commitment to excellence in public service has provided the Board of Water and Light with outstanding leadership through a period of time when the utility industry is experiencing unprecedented changes. Through these times, Tim Haggart has exhibited the highest standards of citizenship, dedication and unselfishness in all policy-making responsibilities necessary to the proper operation of the utility.
RESOLVED, That the members of the Board of Water and Light Commissioners hereby honor and commend Tim Haggart upon leaving this Board after nearly five years of distinguished service. In Regular Session this 25th day of July, 2006, we sincerely wish Tim continued success in all endeavors.
Resolution-2006-7-12
LANSING BOARD OF WATER AND LIGHT
RESOLUTION HONORING MARY E. SOVA
WHERE AS, It is with deep appreciation that we offer tribute to Mary E. Sova as she brings to a close an outstanding career at the Board of Water and Light, retiring with over 26 years of dedicated service. The members of this Board extend our thanks to a committed employee who always went above and beyond when assisting the Board of Water and Light Board of Commissioners, and
WHEREAS, Mary E. Sova joined the Board of Water and Light in 1980 in its Human Resources Department. She was promoted that same year to the position of Secretary to the Secretary of the Board, and was then promoted in 1981 to her current position as Corporate Secretary; and
WHEREAS, Mary has played an integral part over the years in making sure that the members of this Board were adequately prepared for every meeting. Her expertise in recordkeeping and retrieval was superb, and her knowledge of Board of Water and Light policy and procedures was an invaluable asset to the Committee members. She also served as a positive interface with City Council and City Hall; and
WHEREAS, Mary’s deep commitment and devotion to the Board of Water and Light and the Board of Commissioners has been well demonstrated by the countless hours she has contributed to the Board. She was always able to balance her responsibilities with professionalism and politeness. Her hard work, professionalism, and sensitivity to the needs of the Board have won her the respect and admiration of all who have had the good fortune of knowing her.
RESOLVED That the Board of Water and Light Commissioners hereby offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank Mary E. Sova for her notable contributions to the Board of Commissioners and to the Board of Water and Light. In regular session this 25th day of July, 2006, we extend to Mary and her family our best wishes for the future and wish much happiness to Mary as she begins this new chapter in her life.
Motion by Commissioner Cochran, seconded by Commissioner Callen, to formally approve both resolutions.
Action: Carried unanimously
General Manager, Sandy Novick reported that BWL was recognized by the American Public Power Association at their annual meeting in Chicago this past June as the recipient of their Community Service Award. Mr. Novick stated that BWL is the only organization in Michigan to ever receive such an honor and it is with the help and hard work of those here tonight that has allowed us to accomplish such a goal. It is an indication of some of our other community-oriented events such as the Chili-Cook-off, Silver Bells, and I5 Children’s Museum just to name a few. Things of this nature have a positive impact on the community and this award is recognition of that effort.
Commissioner Smith announced that it was recently learned that former Board Commissioner, Jack Sebolt, recently passed away. Mr. Sebolt served on the Board from 1977 to 1995. On behalf of the Board, Commissioner Smith extended their sympathy to Mr. Sebolt’s family and son, Brian Sebolt, current BWL employee.
Commissioner Cochran stated that there is a product called
boraxo 20 mule 20 mule team borax that maybe used to capture mercury out
of the flues that may allow us to avoid spending millions to clean the stacks.
It is the element boron one of the borides, and the infinity has as in
affinity for heavy metals that form hard compounds, which could stay in the fly
ash. rather than sticking to the burners.
Commissioner Calkins pointed out that according to the bylaws it is customary to elect executive committee members upon the solicitation of officers.
Motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Graves, to elect Commissioners Calkins and Commissioner Cochran to the Executive Committee.
Action: Carried unanimously
Commissioner Smith thanked the Board for re-electing her to Chair as she tries to continue to serve with dignity and compassion. Commissioner Smith went on to appoint Commissioner James as the Finance Chair and Commissioner Cochran as the Human Resource Chair. Per Commissioner Smith, the other committee members will be notified of their assignments at a later date.
None.
Max Zemer, BWL retiree, commented that approximately one year ago he requested that the BWL conduct an employee survey due to low employee morale. Since that was not done then the union survey is the only available information to date.
John Joseph Castillo, hired as a consultant by the union with 30 years of experience with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, congratulated the Commissioners on receiving the community service award. He went on to state that the union participated in the 24th Annual Tournament of Friendship on July 14, 2006. The group is an organization formed 24 years ago to forge a relationship between minorities and the Michigan State Police Department. Several agencies participate and help raise college scholarship funds. Per the union’s request, Mr. Castillo extended an invitation to the Commissioners and the general public to join them for a reception at the Clarion Hotel on July 26th to welcome the new Director of the Michigan Department of State Police.
Tracy Tolbert, BWL employee, union Recording Secretary, and Lansing resident stated that she is currently on a leave of absence due to breast cancer. Ms. Tolbert states that she recently sent the Board of Commissioners a letter indicating that the BWL is a good organization to work for but that there is room for improvement. Ms. Tolbert thanked General Manager, Sandy Novick for the “Breakfast with Sandy” opportunities that allow employees to speak their mind. She also commended him for recognizing employees’ statements as concerns and not as complaints. Ms. Tolbert stated that she wants to make sure that everyone realizes that it is their responsibility to work towards making the organization the best it can be.
Cathryn Coffee, BWL union employee, resident of 1811 Lorraine stated that Joe Davis speaks for the entire union and she would like his words taken into consideration. Ms. Coffee also stated that she also took the union survey online and believes that the results are accurate.
Joe Wolfe, BWL retiree, former Assistant General Manager and Director of Operations stated that the expressed union member attitudes were a surprise to him. While complaints are generally common, the high volume surprised him the most. Mr. Wolfe stated that he was employed in the utility industry for 45 years and always believed that the BWL was a good place to work. He went on to state that if employees do not agree then perhaps they should start looking for other employment. He did not hear any specifics about what needed to be changed. However, he believes that there is a feeling that things need improvement and the BWL needs to find out why that feeling exists.
Mr. Wolfe expressed his sympathy for the loss of Jack Sebolt as they were good friends and went onto to express his thanks for being given the opportunity to speak.
Duane Williams, BWL employee did not know the results of the survey prior to this evening. However, he felt that the results were accurate. It also stated that it is best to investigate while nepotism exists, problems with the safety program and general overall misperceptions.
Commissioner Rios agreed with Mr. Williams and asked that everyone work together to clear up any misperceptions that are not accurate. He also stated that in regards to the statement about Mark Nixon, he considers him to a person of integrity and professionalism. Commissioner Rios also stated that he had worked with Mr. Nixon on the editorial board of the Lansing State Journal and found it to be quite enlightening. He went on to say that whatever is printed in the newspaper is being sent in by someone and that should stop. There is a perception that the Mayor or City Council is manipulating the Commissioners and that is not true. Commissioner Rios also reported that Mayor Bernero did not appoint him nor did he work on his campaign.
Commissioner Smith also stated that she has worked with three administrations and was appointed by Mayor Hollister and her commitment has been to the BWL. If you review her voting record then the minutes will reflect a commitment to the BWL and the community.
Commissioner Cochran stated that on the day Mayor Bernero came to address the Board, three hours prior he asked Commissioner Cochran to resign, even though Mayor Bernero was the individual who had initially appointed him. He told the Mayor no and yet he is still a Commissioner. Some things they agree on and some they do not; however, Commissioner Cochran said he took an oath to serve community and intends to honor that oath.
On motion by Commissioner Rios, seconded by Commissioner Callen, the meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
/s/ Rhonda Jones, Corporate Secretary
Filed with Lansing City Clerk
August 4, 2006