Water and Wastewater Utility Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Management
August 15, 2024
Jonathan Evans
City Manager
Riviera Beach
2051 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Suite 310
Riviera Beach, FL 33404
RE: Initial High-Level Assessment of Riviera Beach Water Treatment and Distribution System
U.S. Water Services Corporation (US Water) was engaged to conduct an initial high-level
assessment of the Riviera Beach water treatment and distribution systems. Through site visits,
staff interviews, and independent chloramine residual testing, we have gathered preliminary
findings and observations that highlight several critical areas of concern within the utility
system's management and operations.
During our initial engagement and preliminary assessment of Riviera Beach's water treatment
and distribution systems, it has become evident that significant enhancements in both
operational management and technical capacity are required to meet current and future
challenges. To address these needs effectively, we are proposing the addition of key
supplemental positions within the utility. These roles—Distribution Manager, Maintenance
Manager, Equipment Startup Specialist, and Water Quality Improvement Specialist—are
designed to fortify city staff with specialized expertise and leadership to improve service
delivery, system reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards. By investing in these
positions, we aim to enhance the operational efficiency and public trust in Riviera Beach’s water
utility services.
Distribution Manager
The Distribution Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the water
distribution system to ensure reliable and compliant delivery of water. This role demands a
strategic leader who can manage auto flushers, residual disinfectant maintenance, and improve
overall system compliance with health and safety regulations.
4939 Cross Bayou Blvd. ≈ New Port Richey ≈ Florida 34652
Ph: 727-848-8292 ≈ Fax: 727-848-7701 ≈ Toll Free: 866-753-8292
Riviera Beach August 15, 2024
Maintenance Manager
The Maintenance Manager will address the significant backlog of maintenance work for the
water treatment and distribution systems, requiring a keen focus on both strategic planning and
day-to-day operations. This position will also support procurement processes to ensure timely
completion of maintenance activities.
Equipment Startup Specialist
The Equipment Startup Specialist is tasked with the successful commissioning and startup of
installed, but never commissioned, lime RDP and CO2 feed equipment. This role is crucial for
ensuring that all systems are operational, optimized, and compliant with technical
specifications.
Water Quality Improvement Specialist
The Water Quality Improvement Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing
strategies to enhance the quality of water produced by the utility. This role involves extensive
analysis of current water quality issues and the development of improvement plans to address
these challenges. The goal is to improve both the disinfection process and the aesthetic
qualities of the water, including color and clarity, by providing revised chemical dosing and
protocols.
General Senior Management Leadership Assistance
The General Senior Management Leadership Assistance roles will provide critical support to the
senior leadership team of the water utility. This position is essential in ensuring the alignment of
operational goals with the organization’s strategic vision. The responsibilities include offering
expert guidance on decision-making processes, facilitating cross-departmental collaboration,
and driving initiatives that improve overall utility performance. Additionally, this role involves
managing U.S. water staff, interfacing with consultants and engineers, and coordinating efforts
to ensure seamless project execution and integration. The role also involves analyzing key
performance indicators, recommending adjustments to optimize resource allocation, and
assisting in the development of policies that enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability
of water services. By fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, this role
contributes to the utility's mission to provide safe and high-quality water to the community.
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Riviera Beach August 15, 2024
In conclusion, the introduction of these supplemental positions within the Riviera Beach water
utility is a strategic step towards addressing the systemic issues identified in our assessment. By
filling these critical roles with skilled professionals, we will enhance our capability to manage
and improve the water distribution and treatment systems effectively. These positions are
essential for not only maintaining regulatory compliance and operational efficiency but also for
rebuilding the community's trust in their water system. With the right team in place, Riviera
Beach can expect to see significant improvements in water quality, system reliability, and overall
service delivery, ensuring a safer and more dependable water supply for all residents.
Position Duration Total
Principal 6 weeks $ 68,688
Sr. Project Manager 6 weeks $ 54,982
Maintenance Manager 6 Months $ 190,913
Distribution Manager 6 Months $ 190,913
Equipment Startup Specialist 6 weeks $ 44,057
Water Quality Improvement Specialist 6 Months $ 190,913
Maintenance Support Allowance 2,000 hours $ 203,440
Maintenance Purchase Allowance $ 100,000
Contractors Allowable Markup 15% $ 15,000
Per Diem Allowance $ 140 $ 67,208
Total $ 1,126,113
Monthly Fee (6-Months) $ 187,686
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