Zeeland BPW approves April disbursements, transfers and moves PFAS settlement funds to MPIA

The Zeeland Board of Public Works on June 9 approved April 2026 cash disbursements and routine monthly transfers and confirmed that a recent PFAS settlement payment was transferred to the Michigan Professional Insurance Authority (MPIA).

ACM/Finance Director Plockmeyer told the Board the cash and investments totals at April 30, 2026 were $17,019,119 for the Electric fund and $12,715,357 for the Water fund. Staff recommended transfers that included moving $729,900 from Electric and $291,800 from Water into Plant Improvements and Contingency reserves, and a $57,645 monthly operating transfer from the Electric Fund to the General Fund; the Board approved the motion (all voting aye).

Plockmeyer also reported operational metrics and other finance items. He said the MPIA Board decided to renew insurance coverage while consulting outside counsel on coverage mechanics and liability limits; staff expect to keep the BPW informed as that work continues. From a renewal standpoint, Plockmeyer said the BPW is looking at an estimated premium reduction of $135,159 due to a softening market.

On settlement funds, Plockmeyer said the BPW received a PFAS settlement payment of $334,681.15 the prior week and transferred it to the MPIA. He stated total PFAS settlement receipts to date are $2,035,016.28, all of which have been transferred to the MPIA.

Plockmeyer reported progress on Sprypoint billing workload cross-training and said the FY2027 budget includes a Financial Analyst position; staff described the hire as increasingly strategic and said a recommendation is expected in the coming weeks. The Board did not modify the recommended transfer policy at the meeting and approved the presented cash disbursements and transfers.

The Board approved the minutes of the May 12 meeting and carried the finance motions unanimously. The Board adjourned at 5:46 p.m.