PUD backing up BPA in wind power suit

Wahkiakum PUD commissioners met June 21 for a brief business meeting, then convened later in the day for a workshop.

PUD manager Dave Tramblie gave an update on the substation construction project, stating that Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) employees have visited the site twice in the past two weeks. The PUD’s engineering firm is in “full design mode,” he said.

Tramblie announced Wahkiakum PUD has signed on as an intervener in a case filed Monday by wind power producers disputing BPA’s decision to curtail wind power consumption without compensation to them during recent high water flows over Columbia River dams.

Commissioner Bob Jungers asked PUD attorney Tim Hanigan to clarify the ramifications of registering as an intervener. Hanigan explained it allows the PUD to submit briefs to the court. “It gives us the opportunity to state we believe BPA acted in an appropriate manner,” said Hanigan. “Does it expose us to liability?” asked Jungers. Hanigan explained there was no direct liability, but a judgment against the BPA might lead to rate increases.

Tramblie said the water crew installed a valve this week on a section of pipe that runs under the Grays River. The crew will use the valve to isolate that section as part of an ongoing search to pinpoint leaks in the Western Wahkiakum Water System (WWWS).

Commissioner Dennis Reid asked for clarification about information on the year to date water loss report. Water losses have been 45 percent for the year on the Westend system, pointed out Reid. Tramblie responded “Trust me, everybody here is as frustrated by that number as you.” Tramblie said the water crew will continue to isolate leaks in the aging system until that amount is reduced.

The commissioners tabled a resolution to accept donations to assist low income customers with water bills, requesting some clarifying language in the text, and tabled a resolution exempting the PUD manager and auditor positions from overtime compensation for further study. They approved a resolution changing water service fees.

The seasonal service fee for reestablishment of water service at the same location is $250, and $20 if service is reconnected within 60 days. A temporary reconnection intended for real estate transactions such as property inspections now costs $100 plus water usage. This temporary reconnection cannot exceed 10 days.

The changes to the fee schedule are effective immediately.

At the workshop, commissioners discussed setting up a code of conduct for commissioners and setting up a performance evaluation process for the manager position.