Press Release

PUC Releases Audit Results, Implementation Plan for Columbia Water Co.

Published on 11/6/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted 5-0 to make the PUC Bureau of Audits’ report on its Management Efficiency Investigation of Columbia Water and the company’s implementation plan public.

The PUC Bureau of Audits’ Management Efficiency Investigation examined Columbia Water’s progress in implementing recommendations from a June 2005 Focused Management and Operations Audit.  The Commission found that the company has effectively implemented five of the 12 prior recommendations reviewed and has taken some action on the seven remaining recommendations.  Additionally, staff has made nine follow up recommendations for improvement.

Some of the areas recommended for further improvement include:

• Developing and documenting a succession plan for the General Manager’s position;
• Conducting a study to determine if further reductions in the billing lag could be achieved once substantial implementation of its Automatic Meter Reading system is completed;
• Revising emergency preparedness plans to eliminate deficiencies and strive to keep the plans up-to-date and site specific;
• Initiating efforts to comply with the company’s goal of operating all of its valves every 18 months.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. D-08MEI002

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov