PUD Board approves project

During the meeting on Tuesday, March 24, the Cowlitz County Public Utility District (PUD) Board moved forward with a geotechnical project involving the installation of permanent piezometers in the canal embankment to monitor water levels. This exploration was mandated by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) following the identification of unknown soil conditions during a previous seismic analysis.

The board also approved a $768,670 contract with General Pacific to supply ductile iron poles for a reconductor project. The district is also utilizing Mobilize fleet management software to manage pontoon boat rentals for Walden Island.

The runoff forecast for January through July stands at 103 percent of normal. However, snowpack in the Cascades and Lewis River Basin remains “dismal,” as warm winter temperatures resulted in rain rather than snow. The reservoir is currently 10 feet below full, a relatively high level for this time of year, given the lack of snowpack. While normal overall precipitation may help mitigate fire risks, the board remains concerned about soil moisture levels.

The Electric Rate Advisory Committee is looking to recruit three new members to rebuild its ranks. Significant policy revisions are also underway, including updates to procurement, travel reimbursements, and PTO accrual to comply with Washington state law. New language regarding breaks and lunches is also being drafted following a recent Supreme Court case, with approval expected at the Tuesday, April 14 meeting.

Pacific Power has begun negotiating the sale of various service territories in Washington and Oregon to public utilities. The board noted that Northwest energy supplies are becoming increasingly constrained. The PUD recently declined to serve a large data center load that would have required energy equal to 60 percent of the county’s current load. Discussion was also held regarding Energy Northwest’s evolution into an independent entity, with member utilities calling for more accountability and a return to “public power” thinking.

Upcoming community and employee events include a breakfast on Wednesday, April 1, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. An Earth Day celebration will be held Saturday, April 25. The Home and Garden Show takes place Saturday and Sunday, May 2–3. An employee safety barbecue will be held Wednesday and Thursday, June 17–18, to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Cowlitz County PUD.