Press Release

PUC Makes Audit Recommendation to Columbia Water Co.

Published on 9/22/2011

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today released a report on the Focused Management and Operations Audit of Columbia Water Co. (Columbia Water).

The Commission voted 5-0 to make the audit report and the company’s implementation plan public.  The Focused Management and Operations Audit analyzed and evaluated management performance in six functional areas.  The audit was conducted by the PUC’s Bureau of Audits Staff.

The audit makes seven recommendations to the company for improvement.  The company indicated acceptance of six recommendations in its implementation plan and partial acceptance of one.

Some of the accepted audit recommendations included:

• Reduce the billing lag to more appropriate levels as efficiencies are gained from full implementation of AMR technology;
• Identify critical valves within the distribution system and establish valve inspection goals that adhere to industry standards; and
• Update the emergency response plan.

The company provides water service to approximately 8,700 customers in portions of Columbia and Mountville boroughs and West Hempfield, Manor and Donegal townships in Lancaster County. 

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.

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 Docket No. D-2011-2218445

Contact:

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