AWWA ACE95206

This presentation offers a detailed investigation into the history of regulatory trends in the US, including debt financing, current revenues, public works financing, and Federal Government Aid and provides valuable information regarding public involvement and information techniques. Possible techniques include: briefings, mailings, news conferences, newsletters, newspaper inserts/releases, paid advertisements, presentations, press kits, and public service announcements. The author then provides a case study of Lee's Summit, Missouri, to address two fundamental questions for utility managers: Is the public aware of what the local government is planning?; and how can the utility work with constituents and customers to most effectively meet the increasing regulatory and financial challenges? The Citizen's Water Task Force was designed to evaluate conservation related issues, equitable methods of financing water system improvements, and alternative methods of meeting anticipated future stormwater requirements. The group's recommendations were incorporated into the water rate study done for the City. The Lee's summit experience indicates that Task Force groups can be highly effective in dealing with tough issues which involve public support and involvement.