It’s February 2008 and hopefully we have experienced the worst of the weather for this year as we await the rebirth of spring.
While we consider this past year a busy one with the completion of the Intertie Project, installation of some new services along with repairs in existing systems, year 2008 promises to be a busy one as well. Projects on the calendar for this year include installation of a new well and building, replacement of some old lines throughout the district, evaluation and servicing of existing pumps and meters, and a review and action on protection of our utility from intentional attacks. The latter will cover the design, construction, operation and maintenance of both new and existing water systems. It is crucial to think about and prepare for long term security of our water system.
Speaking of long term, a water system, be it privately owned, a cooperative or a public entity, should be and needs to be “operated like a business” in order to be successful. The term “operated like a business” is used frequently but what is meant by it and how is it interpreted? One version to consider is when an investor purchases a share of stock in a corporation or business the value of the investment is based entirely on the future prospects of that business. In other words, the future is everything in the business world.
The future value of a water system to a community should be regarded in the same manner. To assure the success of a water system, at some point it is necessary for the owners and customers to face the prospect of making substantial investments. With that in mind, the Board of Directors is in the process of implementing an Economic, Financial and Operational Analysis of our water district.
The study, performed by an outside firm, should be completed within a three month period. The analysis should give the Board an accurate perspective of our water system and operations as well as the direction to proceed or maintain to assure a successful future.
Once the analysis is complete and reviewed, it will be an important topic for discussion at upcoming Board meetings.
Thank
you,
Thomas
Ashmore
President
