Deputy Utility Manager Robert Westervelt, left, and DPU Manager Tim Glasco present their proposed budget to Council this evening in Council Chambers at the Municipal Building. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com
Council members unanimously vote to tentatively approve the DPU’s proposed FY2017 budget at this evening’s meeting. Councilors from left, Kristin Henderson, Steven Girrens, Vice Chair Susan O’Leary, Chair Rick Reiss, David Izraelevitz, Pete Sheehey and James Chrobocinski. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com
Staff Report
The Los Alamos County Council approved 7-0 the Department of Public Utilities proposed FY2017 budget of $71,395,628 this evening in Council Chambers.
DPU Manager Tim Glasco explained that the proposed budget is about 10 percent lower than the previous year’s budget and includes about a 10 percent decrease in the gas rate. Glasco said the reduction in the gas rate is due to the wholesale cost of gas, which is nearly at an all-time low.
What the DPU’s proposed FY2017 budget accomplishes:
- One additional limited term FTE dedicated to water meter change outs in preparation for AMI deployment;
- Double filling Hydro Plant Maintenance Technician position;
- Hydroplantfloor resurfacing;
- DPU’s share of Small Modular Reactor Phase 1 site study work;
- SCADA upgrades and additional compliance software;
- $500k in overhead and underground electric replacements;
- The Los Alamos Sub Station (LASS) project;
- A 10% reduction in the fixed portion of the gas commodity rate charged to utility customer;
- Ski hill pipeline construction, funded through LAC and the ski hill operator;
- One replacement water production well;
- Initiation of a backflow preventer program;
- Design of a new wastewater treatment plant in White Rock in FY17; and
- Construction of White Rock’s new wastewater plant in FY18.
