Training Coalition Meeting

February 7, 2001

Attendees:

MDH – Stew Thornley, Doug Mandy

MPCA – Leslie Goldsmith

MRWA – Kyle, Pete McPhearson

MWOA – Jerry Balbach

SEH – John Thom

Received reports from MDH, MRWA, and MPCA on their schedules for 2001.  MRWA is increasing the amount of training they are offering (see enclosed schedule).  They have added new personnel.

Leslie Goldsmith reported on the MPCA training schedule.  Their “large” conferences are still on schedule through July of 2001.  Small schools are being phased out.  Leslie indicated that the MPCA has formed a committee to rethink operator training.  They are also looking at “fine tuning” their reorganization.  The goal is better focus.  MPCA employees didn’t have enough overall knowledge to perform their jobs.  According to Leslie, they will have a better idea in April on the reorganization and training schedule.  Leslie told the group that the MPCA feels that the training is important and should continue.

Questions were raised in regard to the biosolids unit at the MPCA.  Leslie responded that the MPCA is proposing to eliminate the biosolids unit and other small units to achieve a reduction in staff.  Their reasoning is a lack of funding.  Eliminating the biosolids area would put the responsibility back on the EPA for this area.  EPA does not require training hours or certification.  Leslie feels that the biosolids unit would be gone by 2003.

Stew Thornley reported on the MDH activities in training.  Stew and John Thom will be performing training on water treatment to teachers to help them put together their curriculum.  This training would be aimed at middle school teachers.

MWOA needs to put together a list of all of the training opportunities on a yearly basis.  Need input from Section Directors on the dates of meetings throughout the year.

Respectfully submitted,

 Jerry Balbach