FRUITLAND SPECIAL SERVICE DISTRICT
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
Date: June 12, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Fruitland SSD Office
Called to Order By: Chairwoman Vicki Savage
Roll Call
Present:
- Mike Wilkerson
- Vicki Savage
- Bart Morrill
- Steve Hille
- Judy Wilkerson
- Herman Mendez
- Stephen Coggin
- Michael Scheetz
- Jared Kesler
- Alan Frisby
Public Comment
Herman Mendez:
Expressed concern about the cost to connect to the water system. Staff explained that additional water had to be purchased in order to provide new connections. There is currently no district infrastructure in his subdivision, so he would need to run his own line from the meter to his home. The Board agreed on the need to prioritize underserved areas and will seek pricing on a 6' or 8' line to his property.
Alan Frisby:
Inquired about subdividing his property and obtaining 20 water connections. He plans to install the infrastructure and sell the lots, allowing individual homeowners to purchase water connections. He asked whether he could reserve usable water for the subdivision. Jeff Baker of Jones & DeMille indicated that a 6' line along the road would make the project feasible. The Board reiterated that they are currently limited on water and cannot guarantee availability. Suggested that he look for usable water sources to bring for immediate use in the system.
Chairwoman's Report
- A brief update was given regarding the former clerk, who is now facing a second-degree felony charge for misuse of public funds.
- The Bonnor Hardegree / Hidden Meadows matter remains under legal review by the district attorney.
- Declarations of Candidacy have been received from two individuals for the upcoming Board election.
Jones & DeMille - Jeff Baker
- Working to finalize the budget for the chlorination project.
- CIB application has been submitted; awaiting scheduling to present in person.
- A memo on water rights is being prepared, including recommendations and historical analysis. Jeff hopes to collaborate with previous water engineer Bob Leak to help clarify past records.
- Emphasized the importance of converting paper water rights to wet water to retain capacity.
- Adjustments have been made to Little Red shares.
- Some new connections can be sold, but conservation is essential.
- Suggested a work session to review policies regarding outdoor watering (e.g., allowing only 1/4 acre per connection), consistent with the master plan's findings of average usage below 1/10th of an acre.
- Recommended involving Rural Water for guidance.
- Noted that the County is withholding development approvals pending 'Will Serve' letters.
Audit Review - Aycock & Miles
- Presented and completed the 2024 audit.
- Found the district to be in good financial standing with no significant issues.
- Provided suggestions for continued improvement.
- Retired CPA and board member Bart Morrill agreed with their findings and praised the district's condition.
Operations Manager's Report
- Sanitary Survey completed with Nathan Hall (DDW); screen was replaced and a revised score was issued after correction.
- DDW advised that tanks not allowed to overflow must include a manual overflow process.
- Determined that a booster pump at Elkhorn is not feasible.
- Monthly water samples passed. A well sample will be collected next month.
- OTS will replace existing solar panels for data loggers due to excessive power consumption.
- Little Red Vent project is out for bid; responses are due next month.
Clerk's Report
- The district's CIB application is in; awaiting a scheduled time to present.
- Several new customers have inquired about connections.
Board Member Comments (Open Meeting)
Steve Hille:
Reported that a road crossing is settling. Suggested the district share repair costs with Bandanna by contributing one truckload of road base. He will follow up with Fruitland Rock to inquire about a warranty on the original work.
Jared Kesler:
Announced his resignation effective immediately.
- Expressed feeling unfairly treated by both the public and fellow board members.
- Stated he felt judged and not heard, and that his intentions were always to serve the community.
Motions and Votes
- Motion to approve the May meeting minutes:
o Made by: Bart Morrill
o Seconded by: Steve Hille
o Vote: Passed unanimously
- Motion to approve the May financials:
o Made by: Steve Hille
o Seconded by: Bart Morrill
o Vote: Passed unanimously
- Motion to not allow any new water connections until additional water contract is signed and secured:
o Made by: Mike Wilkerson
o Seconded by: Bart Morrill
o Vote: Ayes - Mike Wilkerson, Bart Morrill, Steve Hille; Nay - Jared Kesler
o Motion Passed
- Motion to approve Customer Meter Tampering Policy:
o Made by: Vicki Savage
o Seconded by: Bart Morrill
o Vote: Passed unanimously
- Motion to close the open meeting at 5:55 PM:
o Made by: Mike Wilkerson
o Seconded by: Vicki Savage
o Vote: Passed unanimously
- Motion to open a closed meeting at 5:55 PM:
o Made by: Mike Wilkerson
o Seconded by: Vicki Savage
o Vote: Passed unanimously
Closed Session Notes
The Board entered a closed session to discuss legal and contractual matters. During the closed session, the purchase agreement was reviewed and discussed. Closed session was adjourned at 6:15
Notice of Special Accommodations (ADA)
NOTICE OF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATION DURING PUBLIC MEETINGS
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals needing special accommodations (including auxiliary communicative aids and services) during this meeting should notify Judy Wilkerson at helpdesk@fssdutah.gov or 435-548-2399.