September 8, 2026, Utilities Committee Meeting

The City of Port Orchard Utilities Committee met September 8, 2026, for a utilities project update. Staff reported that the Old Clifton water intertie design is advancing toward 90% and is funded by a Public Works Board loan; construction remains unfunded and is tentatively anticipated for the fourth quarter of 2027. Well 11 is complete, with augmentation work continuing. The project closed at $7.3 million against an original budget of about $8.4 million, approximately $1.1 million under budget. The Melture pump station was expected to start up September 15. Other planned work included a Kitsap Transit lift station project, with a latecomers agreement contemplated so future development can reimburse a proportional share; the Bay Street lift station, designed with RH2 and supported by loan funding through November; and sewer generator and SCADA upgrades nearing completion.

For stormwater, Ruby Creek culvert replacement has state Recreation and Conservation Office grant support and is included in the 2027–28 biennial budget; Annapolis Creek work will continue through design and future funding applications, with cost and design constraints noted. Staff also discussed a proposed stormwater park and the city’s water-meter modernization, with about 98% of meters converted to remote-reading technology. The committee took no procurement award or spending vote in the transcript. Members discussed fluoridation timing and public input; a prior council poll was described as 5–2 against bringing the issue forward at that time, while staff said the equipment is already installed but not operating.