Central Alabama Water has passed a budget for the year that will keep rates the same. That decision came during a board meeting this morning.
Two big things came out of this Friday’s meeting — the 2026 budget and a resolution that gives new power to the utilities CEO.
Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson, and CAW board director, says that the resolution takes away power from the board of directors. Director David Standridge says they are just following the law.
Arguments, protesting and allegations of people being locked outside: Friday morning’s board meeting had it all.
During the meeting, the board of directors passed a budget for 2026. The $40-million budget includes a decrease in capital expenditures and a decrease in operating expenses. Director David Standridge says it’s a win for the utility.
“I’m happy that the that they kept the rate from going up,” Standridge said. “You know, I said that during the meeting that I’m happy that a priority was for the rates not to go up on the rate payers. And I’m happy that what’s going on, you know, they did what they could to keep us within our budget limits to be able to pay our expenses and do what we need to do to move forward.”
Not all those on the board agree. Tyson voted no on the budget.
“It’s a joke. This whole board is a joke. And we’re going to get an Oscar for this right here. It’s ridiculous,” said Tyson.
The board also passed a resolution regarding the power of CEO Jeff Thompson. It affirms Thompson’s ability to set policy for Central Alabama Water.
“I supported the resolution. I think that the resolution pretty much mirrors what the law says toward the statutory requirement for the board,” said Standridge.
Tyson says the resolution takes away power from the board of directors.
“You will pass a resolution that take every bit of authority that we have from us to give to someone that has laid people off, and up the test our water and then have shut down the pumping station with no one to secure that station. And you will put that in here. Think it’s a joke,” said Tyson.
The board is scheduled to meet again on April 9.
