Lamar Utilities Board meeting of September 15, 2026

After approving minutes from the August 25, 2026 meeting, Board members voted to approve Purchase Orders 2025-06828 through 2025—7190, which totaled $1,062,392.36.  Purchase of August (estimated) power from ARPA was  $1,028,479.59 of that amount.  Bills totaling $108,592.94 were also approved for payment.

Six bids were sent out for Bid #2087 for wire and line materials.  Four bids were returned and the Board voted to award Bid #2087 to Western United in the amount of $31,267.32, which was the lowest of the four.

The July 2026 Financial Report was presented to the Board.  The Balance Sheet showed no significant changes.  Cash is down $336,482 from June while accounts receivable increased by $262,799.  The Income Statement showed total operating revenue for the month of $1,556,040 with operating costs of $1,388,154, resulting in gross operating income of $167,886.  When the non-operating revenues and expenses are takin into consideration, there is a net loss for the month of $58,422.  The Year-To-Date Income statement showed total operating revenues of $8,275,742 with total operating costs of $7,138,670, resulting in gross operating income of $1,137,073.  When the non-operating revenues and expenses are taken into consideration, there is a net loss of $115,226 year to date.  In comparison with 2025, retail sales are down approximately $398,654 for 2026 and overall expenses are up approximately $36,046 or 1%, resulting in a net loss of $115,226 for this year.

Before adjourning, the Board met in Executive Session to receive legal advice on specific legal matters affecting the electric utility industry.

The next meeting for the Lamar Utilities Board will be Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

By: Barbara Crimond