Jasper USB Pushes Ahead with Upgrades, Hiring, and System Improvements

The Jasper Utility Service Board advanced major infrastructure and staffing plans at Monday night’s meeting, with progress reported on the new substation, gas system upgrades, and multiple additional projects.

A quote opening was scheduled for a Walk Behind Saw for the Gas and Water Department, but no quotes were received. Staff will reach out to other sources. 4 quotes were opened for a Filtration Truck for the Water Department and will be taken under advisement for next month’s meeting. At the bid opening for the Wastewater Department’s CIPP Lining Project, 3 bids were opened. The department will take these under advisement for review by Engineering.

Electric Manager Stan Seifert reported the Northwest Substation project is nearing completion, with outside finishing, interior completion, and breaker and timing relay testing underway. CenterPoint is expected to move in during the last week of May, with the substation energized by mid-June. The electric GIS mapping project has also been completed. integrating data for multiple departments to improve access to underground utility information and dig safety for construction.

Gas and Water manager Tim Doersam received authorization to purchase 23 gas valves that will be installed throughout the city. This should allow the department to isolate smaller sections when there is a gas leak and reduce larger scale customer gas shutoffs. The low quote from USDI for $20,264.95 was accepted, and installation will be completed in-house. Spring hydrant flushing is expected to be completed this week, and the board approved filling an open Filter Operator position. A Non-Resident Gas Connection was approved for R & M Ranch, LLC at 432 E State Road 164.

In an update on the ANR rate case, General Manager Rob Young said an interim settlement has been reached. The board approved moving forward with a new ANR transportation agreement, as the existing agreement from 2022 expires at the end of May 2026. The board approved a Change Order #2 from Copper Ridge Contracting for 13th and Dorbett water main replacement project for $61,191.45.

A request was approved to start the internal hiring process for a distribution foreman position, and to begin the hiring process internally and externally for a distribution mechanic position. Wastewater Manager Ed Hollinden was granted permission to start the hiring process for two vacancies opened by retirements in June. The board also approved a request for a Non- Resident Wastewater Connection for Shiloh Cemetery Association of Ireland.

Business office manager Ashley Kiefer received permission to purchase the Tyler Miscellaneous Accounts Receivable module for $5,881, including setup fee and annual SaaS fees. The department is moving away from its manual system in Excel. Kiefer said that the new module will greatly improve billing functionality, allowing customers to pay their invoices online.

In other business, the hosted City website needs to be updated by year end. The vendor is retiring the platform, so a new provider will be selected. The contract with Universal Design Associates for the new electric department building has been signed, and a kickoff meeting will be scheduled soon. The City’s Water Asset Management Plan must be submitted by July 1, with revisions to be submitted at a later date.

For more information on these and other updates, visit jasperindiana.gov or JasperGov-Indiana on Facebook.

- By Drew Hasselbring