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River Ridge CDD opts for interim 'zombie box' on lake aerator in close 3–2 vote
Summary
The board approved a $3,098 interim 'zombie box' electrical enclosure for a Lake E1‑C aerator rather than relocating the equipment, voting 3–2 (Schultz, Twombly and Merrill yes; Mountford and Blumenthal no); staff will revisit relocation proposals during FY2026 budget planning.
The River Ridge Community Development District on Nov. 19 narrowly approved installing a temporary electrical enclosure — referred to in the minutes as a "zombie box" — for an aeration unit in Lake E1‑C instead of proceeding with immediate relocation work.
Operations manager Shane Willis presented Premier Lakes’ one‑time work order and a revised Bentley Electric proposal that added about 125 feet of electrical work for relocation. After discussion about budget impacts and an option to defer relocation until the FY2026 budget cycle, Chair Bob Schultz moved to install the interim zombie box at a cost of $3,098. Mr. Twombly seconded the motion. Schultz, Twombly and Keith Merrill voted in favor; Terry Mountford and Kurt Blumenthal voted against it. The motion passed 3–2.
Board members discussed installing the zombie box as a lower‑cost stopgap and revisiting the $10,755 relocation proposals when preparing the FY2026 budget. Staff said the zombie box purchase would allow continued aeration service while staff reassesses placement and associated electrical work.
The board directed staff to include relocation options and updated cost estimates in future budget discussions. The decision recorded a split vote reflecting differing board priorities between immediate cost savings and longer‑term relocation.
