Paris, TN – The May meeting of the Paris Utility Authority board began per usual with a review and approval of minutes from the last regular monthly meeting held on April 27, 2021, followed by a review of the monthly financial and statistical reports.
The first item of business was the approval of an LPC Interconnection, Operation and Maintenance Agreement with Silicon Ranch Corporation. In November 2020 the Board approved a Power Purchase Agreement with Silicon Ranch Corporation to purchase all energy output from a 6.936 MW solar installation in Puryear. This agreement establishes the terms and conditions of the interconnection of the solar array with the PUA electric system. It also defines responsibilities such as construction, cost, ongoing maintenance and testing.
Board members Terry Fuller and Butch Powers terms are both set to expire June 30, 2021. The Board voted to appoint both Powers and Fuller to the PUA board for a four-year term beginning July 1, 2021. This will now go to the City Commission for final approval.
“Both Terry and Butch have been such assets to the Board, especially over the last few years as we transitioned to PUA” said PUA President & CEO, Terry Wimberley. “Their years of experience, knowledge and roots in this community are so valuable. I look forward to working along side them both for another four years.”
The final item of new business was the presentation of fiscal year 2022 budgets for electric, water and wastewater. Highlight from the 2022 budget include no rate increases in any department as well as a positive net income in all three departments. No action was taken at this time. The budget will be voted on at the June meeting.
In his President’s report, Wimberley gave a summary of damages and costs associated with the May 4 storm that impacted much of the area. The utility repaired 30 of down/damaged poles, several miles of downed wire and a multitude of tree limbs down or on power lines for a total cost of around $200,000. He also noted that the utility received mutual aid from both Jackson Energy Authority and Milan Public Utilities.
Wimberley also took the opportunity to show board members the utility’s most recent award, TVA Energy Right Solutions Communicator of the Year. Paris BPU was presented the award by TVA representatives on May 10 at a small ceremony. The award honors the Local Power Company who has shown great success and enthusiasm in communicating the value of TVA EnergyRight programs and services to the Valley through one or more communication channels.
The next meeting of the Board will take place Tuesday, June 22, 2021.
About Paris BPU – Established in 1938, Paris BPU is a municipal utility that provides electric, water and wastewater services to residents of Paris and Henry County as a means of promoting economic development and enhancing quality of life in the community. Serving over 21,000 homes and businesses, Paris BPU strives to provide reliable, safe and affordable services to our community.