11/10/2026 - Mercer Island - Utility Board

Mercer Island Utility Board meeting, November 10, 2026: Staff and HDR consultants updated the board on the water system plan, including demand forecasts, conservation measures, and the proposed regional water-use efficiency goal. Forecasts show demand growth from about 2 million gallons per day currently to just under 2.5 million before accounting for conservation; projected conservation savings are expected to offset growth until the early 2040s. The completed plan and efficiency goal will go to City Council for adoption, followed by review by the state Department of Health and Seattle Public Utilities. No procurement decision or spending vote was taken on this item.

Staff also updated the board on the major water-supply pipeline and roadway project, delivered using a GCCM approach that brought a design consultant and construction contractor in early to inform design and cost reductions. Work includes about 5,000 feet of new 24-inch pipeline, replacement of roughly 1,500 feet of asbestos-cement main, and roadway and pedestrian improvements along approximately one mile of streets. Construction is underway, with completion targeted by the end of 2027. Estimated project costs were presented, but specific dollar figures were not discernible in the transcript; negotiations with SPU are continuing on the depreciated value of infrastructure to be transferred to the city. Staff said the board would receive another project update in the first quarter of 2027. The board was also told that a decision point on the existing solid-waste contract is approaching, with further discussion expected in January; no contract action was taken at this meeting.