Los Alamos County Board Endorses $2M Loan for Wastewater Plant Upgrades

The Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities convened on August 20, 2025, to discuss several key items related to wastewater and water system improvements, as well as the management of uncollectible utility accounts.

The meeting began with a recommendation for Ordinance No. 745, which seeks approval for a loan agreement with the New Mexico Environment Department. This agreement will provide $2 million for upgrades to the Los Alamos Wastewater Treatment Plant, including essential repairs to aeration basins, replacement of a fine screen, and upgrades to ultraviolet equipment. The board unanimously recommended the ordinance to the county council, which will hold a public hearing on September 9.

Following this, the board discussed Resolution No. 2519, which establishes signatory authority for transactions related to the wastewater system improvements. This resolution is a necessary step in conjunction with the loan agreement. The board again voted unanimously to recommend this resolution to the council.

The next item on the agenda was Resolution No. 2520, which authorizes the submission of applications to the Water Trust Board for funding two projects: repainting the Parvito Tank 4A and replacing a mile of aging transmission line along Pareto Road. The board emphasized the urgency of these projects due to recent leaks and the deteriorating condition of the infrastructure. The board approved this resolution, also recommending it to the council.

The meeting then addressed the annual resolution to remove uncollectible utility accounts from the fiscal year 2021 receivables list. The board reviewed a total of 74 accounts, amounting to $26,255.04, which includes utility accounts and associated taxes. The board noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the collection process, leading to higher balances for some accounts. After discussion, the board voted to recommend this resolution to the council.

Lastly, the board considered a services agreement with REPT for a software platform aimed at enhancing communication between government agencies and citizens. This platform is intended to improve outreach and engagement with the community. The board expressed support for the initiative, which is expected to last for 15 years.

In summary, the meeting focused on critical infrastructure improvements and financial management, with all discussed resolutions receiving unanimous support from the board. The next steps involve presenting these recommendations to the county council for further action.