SCADA rollout stalled; vendor nonresponsive and board refuses billing until product delivered

Board members discussed an incomplete SCADA upgrade, repeated system failures and a dispute with a supplier identified in meeting remarks as CI Thornburg (also referenced as CL Thornburg). Staff said Thornburg has not delivered a working product and that the vendor has not responded adequately to requests for personnel or mechanical parts; staff reported receiving a bill in November and refusing to pay until the product is delivered.

Staff described operational impacts: some cellular lift-station upgrades were installed but the board does not yet have the computer upgrades, water-system interface or data acquisition in place to collect and use the SCADA data. Staff said in the interim they are experiencing equipment failures and have had to perform manual rebuilds.

Board members expressed frustration and discussed escalating pressure on the vendor. One member said they are prepared to send a “nasty letter” if the vendor does not demonstrate work progress; staff said they expect a report from Mike Davis and Ursula before the next meeting and that, if the vendor has not moved forward, the board will prepare a written demand and discuss authorizations to proceed at the next meeting.

Separately, staff noted some internal administrative changes: Natalie will serve as volunteer utility-board secretary/note taker going forward and the board thanked staff and volunteers for setting up Zoom meeting capabilities.