Press Release

PUC Audit Makes Recommendation to York Water Co.

Published on 6/30/2011

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – According to an audit report released today by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), The York Water Company (York Water) is realizing annual savings of $26,000 and has realized a one-time saving of $174,000 by implementing the recommendations contained in Focused Management and Operations Audit report released in October 2008.  These savings were identified in the PUC Bureau of Audits’ Management Efficiency Investigation (MEI) that examined York Water’s progress in implementing 8 of the original 13 recommendations from its October 2008 report. 

 The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted 5-0 to make the PUC Bureau of Audits’ report on its Management Efficiency Investigation of York Water and the Company’s Implementation Plan public.

According to the MEI, the Company has effectively implemented all eight of the prior recommendations reviewed.  Some of the changes made by the Company included:

·         Reducing its inventory and increasing its inventory turnover rates.

·         Accelerating its main replacement rate from 232 years in 2008 to 143 years in 2010.

·         Updating its emergency response plan.

·         Educating its employees on proper treatment of confidential customer information.

·         Revising its vehicle replacement guidelines.

While these accomplishments are commendable, the Audit Staff further recommended that York Water should strive to achieve the Company’s goal of attaining a main replacement rate and rehabilitation interval not to exceed 120 years.

In response to the MEI report, York Water submitted an Implementation Plan, indicating acceptance of the follow-up recommendation and that it plans to achieve the recommended main replacement rate starting in 2011.

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 website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

Docket No. D-2011-2218791

Contact:

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