The Mount Pleasant Municipal Utilities held their monthly meeting Tuesday afternoon. This meeting had a formal agenda covering financial reports, legal updates, utility operations, and employee concerns.
Key points discussed:
- Financial Report – The utility had a surplus in January, partly due to a rate increase. Capital projects remain on hold due to past deficits.
- Legal Updates – Discussion on legislative issues affecting utilities, including the “right of first refusal” provision and potential changes to local government authority over utilities.
- Operational Updates – Progress on water meter installations, water distribution system updates, and power supply projects. Some procurement challenges were noted.
- Employee Concerns – Union President Craig Schwarting addressed the board about workforce retention and contract changes. He expressed concerns that removing contractual protections could lead to staffing shortages and increased costs.
- Public Comments – Discussion on workforce challenges in the utility sector, emphasizing the demanding nature of the job and difficulties in attracting qualified personnel.
The meeting involved board members, financial and legal representatives, and union representatives, with a mix of presentations, discussions, and some decisions requiring votes. The Meeting went to closed session to discuss legal matters and proprietary information, and adjourned.