HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/14/2011, PH 2 - 2011 WATER FUND REVIEW AND 2011-13 WATER RATE ADOPTION council h'R',D� June 14,2011
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CITY O F SAN LUIS O B I S P O
FROM: Came Mattingly,Utilities Director
Prepared By: Gary W. Henderson, Water Division Manager -dP4 L�
Kathe Bishop, Senior Administrative Analyst
SUBJECT: 2011 WATER FUND REVIEW AND 2011-13 WATER RATE ADOPTION
RECOMMENDATION
1. Review and accept the 2011 annual water fund financial review.
2. Approve the amended Capital Improvement Plan for 2010-11, which defers $1.5 million for
the Utilities Telemetry System Upgrade construction phase from 2010-11 to 2013-14 based
on the revised capital plan program.
3. Adopt a resolution increasing water service charges by ten percent (10%) effective July 1,
2011 and nine percent (9%) effective July 1, 2012 provided there is not a majority protest
against such increases.
4. Conceptually approve the Water Fund budget for 2011-13, with final action on June 21, 2011
with adoption of the 2011-13 Financial Plan.
REPORT IN BRIEF
This report presents the annual review of the financial position of the City's water fund. It makes
recommendations for water rate increases as previously projected in the 2009 and 2010 Water
Fund Reviews, in the amounts of ten percent (10%) in 2011-12 and nine percent (9%) in 2012-
13, despite revenues less than projections.
Expenditure reductions in current (2010-11) and projected (2011-13) operating and capital
expenditures, totaling $4.5 million, were necessary to maintain the previously projected rate
increases and to improve the balance between income and expenses. As part of the 2010-11 Mid-
Year Budget Review, adjustments were made to incrementally reduce water revenue projections
for 2010-11.
Total water revenues are projected to be about $1.3 million (8%) less than the 2010 Water Fund
Analysis($14.4 million compared to $15.7 million). At year-end total water sales, which account
for more than 90% of total water revenues, are projected to be about $1.68 million (11%) less
than projected in the 2010 Analysis. The 2011 Water Fund Analysis(Attachment 1, Exhibit A.1.)
includes the revised revenues as projected for 2010-11 year-end, and presents revised revenue
projections for the 2011-13 Financial Plan and forecast.
PH2-1
2011 Water Fund Review and 20.11-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 2
The 2011 Water Fund Analysis reflects a changed methodology for revenue projections which
calculates water sales based on fiscal year-end water use projections, instead of long-term
average water use, and no longer ties population growth to General Plan estimates but to
economic indicators. The proposed budget maintains working capital reserve levels above City
policy of 20% of operating expenses. Based on the City's multi-year rate strategy, incremental
rate adjustments are made over time to build up the working capital balance to prepare the fund
for significant expenses (debt service obligations and/or investments in capital infrastructure),
and to insure that the fund is self-supporting and able to respond in the event that an emergency
infrastructure need occurs.
The City's water fund remains positioned to meet debt service requirements associated with the
Nacimiento Project and previous upgrades to the City's water treatment plant.
The 2011 Analysis presents a revenue and expenditure plan and forecast that improve the balance
between current revenue projections and expenditures incrementally, with a structurally balanced
budget currently forecasted in 2015-16 as displayed in Attachment 1, Exhibit A.1.
DISCUSSION
The 2011 Water Fund Analysis takes into consideration current economic conditions, revenue
constraints, and expenditure reductions, while maintaining operating and maintenance programs,
addressing the highest priority capital improvement projects, and ensuring high quality, safe and
reliable water services to the community.
Overall, despite decreasing revenues, the water fund is stable. As part of the 2011 Water Fund
Analysis, action was taken to reduce operating and capital expenses. Expenditure reductions total
$4.5 million, which includes about $1.5 annually beginning in the 2010-11 revised budget and
continuing through the two year 2011-13 Financial Plan. Of the total $4.5 million, $3.5 million
(78%) is attributable to capital budget reductions, $650,000 (14%) is based on projected
operating and materials expenditure savings, and $350,000 (8%) is staffing related savings from
an operator position that was not filled in 2010-11 and anticipated staffing related expenditure
savings.
The water fund remains positioned to meet the debt service and operating and maintenance
requirements associated with the community's newest source of water supply. Major reductions
proposed for the capital improvement plan are temporary in nature as such reductions in the long-
term are not conducive to maintaining the water infrastructure in a reliable manner. A working
capital reserve level above City policy of 20% operating reserve is maintained in 2011-13 and
into the future.
The 2011 Water Fund Review presents a long-range plan to improve the financial condition of
the fund over a number of years, remaining sensitive to the community's capacity for water rate
increases and Council policy related to rate setting. Moving into the future, a new methodology
for projecting water use will take into consideration the impacts of the changed economic
environment and other influences on the water fund.
PH2-2
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 3
With the completion of the Nacimiento Project, the City has met many of the goals and policies
that are identified in the City's General Plan. In particular, the City's multi-source water policy
and the reliability reserve provide solid enhancements for meeting current water demands as well
as future community needs for decades to come. The reliability reserve has set aside water for
unforeseen circumstances, such as a new worst-case drought or loss of a water supply source, and
will provide benefits to both current and future residents. This is a major accomplishment
achieved by the community.
Capital Improvement Plan Overview
For over 15 years, the community has made outstanding progress in replacing its water
infrastructure. As a result of the significant investments in capital improvements, fewer main
breaks are occurring over time and a proactive water service line replacement program, through
which defective polybutylene lines have been replaced over the last ten years, was recently
completed. Pump station and tank replacements have increased system reliability and equipment
has been purchased to increase staff efficiency and preventive maintenance activities.
In 2010, revenues were trending downward from original projections. In response, reductions in
capital expenditures were made incrementally. Over the next two years significant reductions are
being proposed in the
City's water fund Water Capital Improvement Plan and Forecast
capital improvement
plan in order to 3,0M.000-
maintain
,0M.aromaintain rates for
2011-13 as previously zsaa.aoo
projected in the 2009
and 2010 water fund ZpMADD
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capital improvement 1.aaapaa
plan budgets from
2008-09 through those wo,aaa
projected in 2015-16..
The chart demonstrates 0 1--, t
OM 20WIG 2010-11 2011-u 2012-1a 2013-14 iols-13- 201s1e
historic funding levels, 20
reductions taken in 2010-11, along with those recommended in 2011-13, and a return to more
historic funding levels in 2013-14.
2011 Water Fund Analysis Report
The attached 2011 Water Fund Analysis report provides details associated with major changes in
water sales and projected revenues, measures taken to keep water rate increases at the same level
as projected in the 2009 and 2010 water fund analyses, assumptions used to complete the
analysis, and an update of the major programs and activities.
PH2-3
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 4
Revenue Projections and Financial Forecast
The 2011 Water Fund Analysis forecasts the water fund's financial position through 2015-16.
The analysis takes into consideration current and ongoing economic conditions and has identified
significant operating and capital expenditure reductions, especially over the next two years, to
moderate rate increases.
This past year saw a major drop in water use in the City. Many factors contributed to this lower
level of water use including recessionary impacts, significant rainfall, increases in student
housing on Cal Poly campus, and a heightened awareness of water use associated with volume
based sewer billing.
In 2010-11 water revenues did not meet projections throughout the year. Action was taken to
revise water sales revenue projections as part of the 2010-11 Mid-Year Budget Review. The
long-range financial forecast is impacted by revenues not meeting projections in 2010-11.
Long-standing methods (based on population projections tied to the General Plan, along with
historic water use trends) that were used to project water sales in the past, have not proven
responsive to changing conditions influencing water sales over the last two years. Using this
approach resulted in water sales projections being higher than actual metered water use.
In preparation for the 2011-13 Financial Plan, staff has analyzed additional utility billing data
sets in order to better correlate factors influencing water sales and therefore revenue projections.
The analysis evaluated trends in water use among the various customer classes (i.e., single family
residential, multi-family, hotels, restaurants, irrigation accounts, etc.). While the analysis did not
reveal a single specific factor that caused the reduction, community irrigation use exhibits the
largest drop-off. While irrigation use is strongly influenced by the amount and timing of rainfall,
it is also a "discretionary" use that water users may decide to cut back on during difficult
financial times.
After further analysis and discussion, staff has adjusted its methodology for projecting water
sales utilizing current economic trends related to indicators such as housing and development,
student population, and irrigation. This information has then been applied to the current year
water sales. For the 2011-13 Financial Plan, revenue projections assume no net increase in the
amount of water used by the community when compared to revised 2010-11 year-end water use
projections.
The number of factors that have led to the water sales reductions may be a "perfect storm" or it
may be the new normal. Staff will continue to closely analyze trends and, as in the past, will
recommend course corrections as necessary.
2011-13 Financial Plan
Operating Program Change Reductions
Significant operating program change (SOPC) reductions total $824,300 in 2011-12 and
$1,268,000 in 2012-13, as summarized in Attachment 1, page 4. Detailed supporting
documentation for each request is provided in Appendix A of the Preliminary Financial Plan,
PH2-4
i 1
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 5
pages 25 to 40. In addition, a list of water operating program cost reductions is located on pages
144 to 147 of the Preliminary Financial Plan,Appendix A.
The majority of the operating program reductions are associated with the water source of supply
program. The 2009-10 and 2010-11 Salinas Reservoir operations budgets included funding for
design and construction of an upgrade of the Salinas Booster Pump Station. Adequate funding
has now been set aside to complete this project. This operating budget reduction of$675,900 in
2011-12 and $1,135,900 in 2012-13 was anticipated and included in previous water fund
analyses.
Electrical pumping costs associated with delivery of water from Whale Rock Reservoir have
been reduced $91,600 annually in 2011-13 due to water deliveries now coming primarily from
the Nacimiento and Salinas Reservoirs.
Staffing cost reductions associated with the 2009-11 Financial Plan carried over into the 2011-13
Financial Plan with additional reductions in staffing related costs projected in 2011-13. Projected
staffing cost reductions are also programmed into the long-range financial forecast and water rate
plan.
Operating Program Change Increases
The significant operating program change (SOPA increases total $75,800 in 2011-12 and
$82,600 in 2012-13. SOPC increases are summarized in Attachment 1, page 4 with detailed
supporting documentation for each request provided in Appendix A of the Preliminary Financial
Plan, pages 25 to 40.
Capital Improvement Plan Requests and Reductions
Capital improvement plan requests are summarized in Attachment 1, page 6, with detailed
supporting documentation Can-yo verCapital ImprovementPlan Projects
for each provided request ided in
q p Cap rtal projects for Salinas and Whale Rock Reservoirs are accounted
Appendix B Of the for in the Water Fund Source ofSupp ly Operatlng Program
Preliminary Financial Plan, APPROVED
pages 3-54 to 3-76. Even I saa.cenjsnpply j I BITOGEr
with the recommended _l Salinas Reservoir Booster Pump Station Upgrade 1,500,000
capital reductions, major Whale Rock Reservoir Telemetry System Upgrade 235,000
investments will be made in
Water Treatment Plant
Air Compressor Replacements 200 000
the water infrastructure - Raw Waterline Recoating _ 150,000
serving the community. Filter Media Replacements 100,000
Carryover capital projects RoofRepair and Replacement 81,100
for the water system that Water Distribution
were previously approved Distribution System Pipeline Replacements 1,057,300
Telemetry System Upgrade-Design 325,000
total about $4 million. The Johnson Waterline and Pavement Repay 194,000
water fund Carryover Maintenance and Assest Management System 1 120,0001
projects, as displayed in the Administration and Engineering
following table, are plannedUtility Billing System Upgrade(50%share) 75,0001
for completion in 2011-13. TOTAL CARRYOVER WATER CAPITAL PROJECTS 4,037,400
PH2-5
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 6
An upgrade to the Salinas Reservoir Booster Pump Station, with a total budget of$1.5 million
for design and construction, will be completed during fiscal year 2011-12. While no funding is
identified for water distribution pipeline replacement over the next three years, previously
identified funding of approximately $1 million will enable replacement of pipelines at various
locations throughout the City this summer. In addition, a project to replace approximately 350
linear feet of 16-inch water main in Johnson Avenue, including pavement repair, will be in
construction this summer in front of French Hospital.
During the next year, design for upgrades to the City's telemetry control systems for the Whale
Rock conveyance system and the citywide water distribution system will be initiated with
previously approved funding. Construction of the telemetry system, previously approved at $1.5
million in 2010-11,has been deferred until the 2013-14 fiscal year to moderate rate increases.
The 2011-13 water capital improvement plan totals $311,400 in 2011-12 and $200,000 in 2012-
13. The capital plan includes water reuse automation improvements ($50,000) and an analysis of
the recycled water distribution system ($40,000) planned in 2011-12. A total of $200,000
annually in 2011-13 is
identified for trench repair 2011-13 Capital Impr�ov�ement Plan
and to raise valve covers — _ _ 2011-12 zo1G1T
f SuPPIY
following the completion Source o �— BUDGET BUDGET
of city paving projects. A lWater Reuse Automation Improvement 50,000
total of $21,400 in 2011- 17Water Reuse Distribution System Analysis 1 40,000
12 reflects the wateI I Water Distribution
fund's share of city I IDistribution System Improvements 200,000 200,000
information technology Total WaterServices_CW290,0001 200,000
capital projects. The Water Shared City Information Technology _
Fund 2011-13 Capital �Office Application Software Replace 10,000
Improvement Plan is Wireless Network Infrastructure 9,500
displayed below. I City Website Upgrade 1 1,900
—7-Total Share ofTechoology CII' I 21,400 i 0
After two years with a TOTAL WATER FUND CAPITAL PLAN I 311,400 IT 200,000
significantly reduced level
I— —:
of capital projects, the longer term capital plan returns to funding levels of approximately $2
million annually beginning in 2013-14. Funding is projected to return to historic levels in 2013-
14 which more closely align with Council's infrastructure replacement goal of two percent per
year. The most significant investment in 2013-14 is $1.5 million in information technology
related to construction of water distribution telemetry system upgrades. In 2014-15, funding
shifts to water distribution system improvements related to water pipeline replacements.
Attachment 1, Exhibit A.3 displays the Water Fund 2011-13 Capital Improvement Plan and
forecast through 2015-16.
The most significant budget balancing in the water fund was achieved by reducing or deferring
capital improvement projects related to water distribution over the next two years. When
compared to the 2010 Analysis and capital plan forecast, the 2011-13 capital reductions total
$964,600 in 2011-12 and $1,090,700 in 2012-13 to maintain previously projected rates. Capital
project funding for existing waterline replacements is projected to return in 2014-15. The
PH2-6
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 7
following table demonstrates how capital improvement plan funding levels have been adjusted
over time(2009, 2010, and 2011 Water Fund Analyses) in response to changes in projections.
Water Capital Improvement Plan
Revised Funding Levels
3,000,000
2,500.000
2.000,000 132009
1,500,000 132010 2010
❑2011
1,000,000
500,000
0
2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 201510
Community Engagement
On April 22, 2011, pursuant to the requirements of California Constitution Article XIII
(commonly referred to as Proposition 218), a Notice of Public Hearing (Attachment 2) was
mailed to all water and sewer customers informing them of the proposed rate increases for the
water and sewer funds 45 days in advance of the June 14, 2011 public hearing.
The Notice of Public Hearing included proposed water rate increases of ten percent (10%) in
2011-12 and nine percent (9%) in 2012-13, which are the final recommended water rates for
Council consideration. As outlined in the Proposition 218 notice, the recommended rate
increases will be discussed as a public hearing item before the City Council on June 14, 2011,
when the public will have an opportunity to comment on the recommendations and register
official protests to the proposed rate increases as required by Proposition 218. Staff looks
forward to Council and community input on these issues.
The Utilities Department notified the public of the proposed rate increases and the associated
public hearing utilizing a number of outreach methods including- Utilities Resource newsletter,
The Tribune, SLO City News, and the City website. Information and scripts were provided to
local media outlets for community calendars and for public service announcements. In addition,
the Utilities Department held "Open House" hours from 5-7 pm, once weekly over a four week
period to meet with community members in an informal setting to provide educational
information about the City's water and wastewater services and proposed rate changes, and to
assist with specific information to answer individual questions.
PHZ-7
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2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 8
Water Service Charges
The City's water rate structure is commodity-based and has been since 1993. From 1993 through
2005, the water rate structure included two tiers for all account types. In 2006, the City Council
approved the addition of a third tier to the single family residential water rate structure for water
use greater than 25 units monthly effective July 1, 2006.
Water bills are based on customer usage choices and resulting demand on the water system. The
water service charge is fully volumetric, based on the volume of water used by the individual
customer. The following table shows a summary of the current and proposed water rates for
single family residential accounts which includes three tiers.
Current and Proposed Water Service Rates
Water Rates
Single Family Residential
Units 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
Current Proposed Proposed
1 -5 $5.21 /unit $5.73/unit $6.25/unit
6-25 $6.52/unit $7.17/unit $7.82/unit
26+ $8.17/unit $8.99/unit $9.80/unit
1 unit= 100 cubic feet=748 gallons of water
The following table shows a summary of the current and proposed water rates for all other
accounts which includes two tiers.
Water Rates
All Other Account Types
Units 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
Current Proposed Proposed
1 -5 $5.21/unit $5.73/unit $6.25/unit
6+ $6.52/unit $7.17/unit $7.82/unit
1 unit= 100 cubic feet=748 gallons of water
Exhibit A of Attachment 3 provides the detailed list of the proposed rate increases for 2011-12
and 2012-13. For the few accounts outside of the City limits, rates are twice the amounts shown.
Additionally, there are a couple of commercial accounts within the City that do not have a water
meter (served by private wells), but are attached to the City's water system for emergency
purposes such as fire protection as established in 1996 under Resolution No. 8578, and included
in the proposed water rate resolution(Attachment 3, section 3).
PH2-8
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 9
Fiscal Impact on the Average Residential Customer Bill
The proposed water rate increases for 2011-12 and 2012-13 are the same rates as previously
forecasted in the 2009 and 2010 water fund analyses presented to the City Council over the past
two years. The following table displays the current and proposed water rates for the average
residential customer, assuming an average of nine (9) units of water monthly.
Average Residential Water Customer Monthly Bill
Assuming nine(9)units of water use per month
Units 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
1 -5 $5.21 /unit 26.05 $5.73/unit 28.65 $6.25/unit 31.25
6-25 $6.52/unit 26.08 $7.17/unit 28.68 $7.82/unit 31.28
26+ $8.17/unit n/a $8.99/unit n/a $9.80/unit n/a
$52.13 $57.33 $62.53
1 Water rate increases for the average residential customer are$5.20 monthly in 2011-12,plus$5.20 monthly in 2012-13
In the past, the average residential customer's water usage was ten (10) units monthly. Based on
actual water usage, the average residential customer's water usage is reduced to nine (9) units of
water monthly beginning in 2010-11. The table above illustrates the changes to the monthly bill
with the proposed rate increases. The fiscal impact to the average residential customer is $5.20
monthly in 2011-12 and an additional $5.20 monthly in 2012-13.
Water Rate Protests
Under Proposition 218, customers directly responsible for the payment of the fee subject to the
proposed rate increase may submit a written protest against the proposed rate increases. The
protest must be in writing, received by the City Clerk at or before the public hearing on June 14,
2011, identify what is being protested, and contain the service address. The party signing the
protest must be listed on the account as the person responsible for payment of the water bill
and/or the property owner. In the event that a protest is submitted by the owner and also by the
tenant responsible for payment of the bill, then one valid protest is counted for the account.
If written protests are filed by a majority, the applicable proposed rate may not be imposed. A
majority of approximately 14,700 customers is 7,351. As of May 25, 2011, a total of 118 written
protests were received by the Office of the City Clerk. Of the 118 written protests received, 106
protests are valid, as summarized below.
Proposition 218 Validated Protests as of May 25, 2011
Proposed Fee Chane Protests Submitted Number of Valid Protests
Water Rate Increases 118 106
The City Clerk will provide an updated summary of the protests received at the June 14, 2011
City Council meeting.
PH2-9
2011 Water Fund Review and 2011-13 Water Rate Adoption Page 10
FISCAL IMPACT
The recommended general purpose water rate increases of ten percent (10%) effective July 1,
2011 and nine percent (9%) effective July 1, 2012 will allow the City to fund the operating and
capital needs of the City's water system as presented to Council on June 14, 2011 during a public
hearing on the annual water fund review.
ATTACHMENTS
1. 2011 Water Fund Analysis
Exhibit A — Updated Financial Schedules
A.1. Changes in Financial Position
A.2. Assumptions for Fund Projections
A.3. Capital Improvement Plan
2. Paying for Water and Sewer Services Proposition 218 Notice of Public Hearing
3. Resolution Establishing Water Service Rates for 2011-13
AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE COUNCIL OFFICE
2011 Water Fund long-term financial forecast through 2022-23
g:%adminikathelfiscaMnancial plans12011-13 finanetat plan\2011-12 fund analysisll.watem.water staff reports\2011 water fund Car.doc
PH2-10
ATTACHMENT 1
2011 Water Fund Analysis
June 1.4, 2011
Prepared by the
Utilities Department
city Of san WIS OBISPO
PH2-11
`a
Attachment 1
Page 2
city of san Luis OBISPO
2011 Water Fund
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. OVERVIEW
II. 2011-13 FINANCIAL PLAN
A. Summary of Operating Programs
B. Operating Program Reductions
C. Operating Program Increases
D. Approved Carryover Capital Projects
E. Capital Improvement Plan and Forecast
111. WATER RATE SETTING
A. Water Rate Structure
B. Proposed Water Rate Changes
IV. ASSUMPTIONS
A. Revenues
B. Expenses
C. Debt Service
V. MAJOR ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
A. 2010-11 Update
B. 2011-12 and Forecast
EXHIBIT A— FINANCIAL SC14EDULES
A.1. Changes in Financial Position
A.2. Assumptions for Fund Projections
A.3. Capital Improvement Plan
PH2-12
1
Attachment I
Page 3
city Of
san lues OBIS130
2011 Water Fund Analysis
I. OVERVIEW
This report presents the financial condition of the Water Fund, based on the 2011-13 Financial
Plan operating and capital programs. The 2011 Water Fund Analysis takes into consideration
current economic conditions, revenue constraints, and recommends previously anticipated rate
increases for 2011 .and 2012, while still addressing the highest priority capital improvement
projects, and ensuring high quality, safe and reliable water services to the community.
II. 2011-13 FINANCIAL PLAN
Water Division operating programs are summarized in Table A. The summary of operating
programs reflects the net operating program budget amounts for 2011-13, which includes the
proposed operating budget reductions and increases, as further discussed in this report and
displayed in Table.13 and:Table C-on;the following page.
A. Summary of Operating Programs
Includes Operating Program Reductions and Increases 2011-12 2012-13
BUDGET BUDGET
Water Source ofSiupply 8,377,700 7,939,600
Utilities Conservation 388,200 389,400
Water Treatment 2,248,400 2,318,300
Water Distribution 1,146,600 1,175,600
Water Customer Service m 321,300 327,100
Water AdministratiomEngineering 601,500 599,900
Water Franchise Fees 519,600 562,000
TOTAL WATER SERVICES OPERATING PROGRAMS 13,603,300 13,311,900
Source of Supply costs include about$6.5 million annually for the Naciniento WaterProject
beginning in 2011-12. Salinas Reservoir operations funding levels are reduced in 2012-13.
'3) Wastewater Collection program funds 50%of the Water CnStOmer Service progm
The 2011-13 two-year financial plan development process included identifying operating cost
reduction options to further tighten the ongoing operating program budgets for water services.
This action was taken in an effort to recommend the lowest responsible budget and associated
water charges, while ensuring high quality, safe, and reliable water services to the,community.
Operating budget reductions were identified in the water operating programs resulting in both
one-time and.ongoing cost savings with minimal service impacts to water customers and the
community.
As outlined in Table B, the significant operating program change reductions ($5,000 or greater)
for water services include total reductions of$824,300 in 2011-12 and $1,268,000 in 2012-13.
The significant reduction for Salinas Reservoir operations of $675,900 in 2011-12 and
PH2-13
Attachment I
Page 4
$1,135,900 in 2012-13 was previously forecasted and included in the 2010 and 2009 analyses
and water rate forecasts. In addition to the budget reduction associated with Salinas Reservoir,
water operating program savings in 2011-12 includes $148,400 of which $16,300 is one-time in
nature and $132,100 is ongoing savings, resulting in a savings of$132,100 in 2012-13 that is
ongoing in nature.
As displayed in Table C, significant operating program change increases are necessary to
continue to meet the operational requirements to provide high quality, safe and reliable water
services for the community. Proposed significant operating program changes include a total
increase of $75,800.in 2011=12 and $82,600 in 2012-13. Of the total operating program cost
increase about 8.5% is attributable to increased costs for chemicals and electric utility services.
The increased cost for chemicals used in the treatment process for potable and recycled water is
based on an increased quantity of filter aids for the treatment of Nacimiento water, an increase in
recycled water production, andprojected price increases in chemicals in year two for potable
water treatment. The cost increases for electric utility services are based on projected electrical
rates and an increase in recycled water production and deliveries.
B. Significant Operating Program Changes-Reductions
Appendix A of the Preliminary Financial Plan itcludes detailed supporting docuirents 2011-12 2012-13
SAVINGS SAVINGS
1. Reduction in Salinas Reservoir operations funding levels 675,900 1,135,900
2. Reduction in Electric Utility Usage at Whale Rock Reservoir 91,600 91,600
3. Reduction in Water Distribution Electric Utility Usage 14,600 14,600
4. Reduction in Water Treatment Contract Services 14,600 14,600
5. Reduction in Water Treatment Chemicals(Chlorine) 14,000 11,300
6. Reduction in Water Treatment Electric Utility Service 13,600 0
Water Services Operating Program Cost Reductions 824,300 1,268,000
C. Significant Operating Program Changes-Increases
2011-12 2012-13
BUDGET BUDGET
Source of Supply
Water Reuse Electric Utility Service 12,000 14,600
Water Reuse Chemicals(Sodium Hypochlorite) 9,300 9,300
Water Treatment
Chemicals(Filter Aids=Liquid Cationic Polymer) 35,800 38,500
Chemicals(Aluminum Sulfate) 4,1007,100
Electric Utility Service 0 3,200
Water Distribution
Accelerated Water Meter Replacements 7,600 9,900
Water AdministratiomEngineering
Exterior Painting of 879 Morro Street Building(50%share) 7,000 0
Water Services Operating Program Cost Increases 75,800 82,600
Offsetting Revenues from Meter Replacements (6,000) (12,000)
2011-13 Water Services Net Operating Program Changes (754,500) (1,197,400)
Detailed supporting documents for each request is provided in Appendix A of the Preliminary
Financial Plan,pages 25 to 40.
PH2-14
Attachment 1
Page 5
When considering the 2011-13 operating cost reductions and increases together, including the
offsetting revenues from water meter replacements, the net water operating program changes
include a budget reduction of$754,500 in 2011-12,with a reduction of$1,197,400 in 2012-13.
The net operating budget changes are incorporated in the Water Fund Change in Financial
Condition(Exhibit A.1).
For capital improvement projects, the City has identified a goal of replacing approximately 2%
of its infrastructure on an annual basis which assumes a 50 year useful life for existing pipelines.
For the past 15 or more years, the City has been making significant investments in the water
supply, treatment, and distribution system infrastructure. This has achieved significant
improvements to the City's overall water system.
Carryover capital improvement projects for the water system that were previously approved and
funded with design, equipment acquisitions, and/or construction pending completion are
summarized in Table D. The carryover capital improvement projects total about $4 million and
are planned for completion in 2011-13.
D. Carryover Capital Improvement Plan Projects
Capital projects for Salinas and Whale Rock Reservoirs are accounted
for in the Water Fund Source of Supply Operating Program
APPROVED
BUDGET
Source of Supply
Salinas Reservoir Booster Pump Station Upgrade 1,500,000
Whale Rock Reservoir Telemetry System Upgrade 235,000
Water Treatment Plant
Air Compressor Replacements 200,000
Raw Waterline Recoating 150,000
Filter Media Replacements 100,000
Roof Repair and Replacement 81,100
Water Distribution
Distribution System Pipeline Replacements 1,057,300
Telemetry System Upgrade-Design 325,000
Johnson Waterline and Pavement Repair 194,000
Maintenance and Assest Management System 120,000
Administration and Engineering
Utility Billing System Upgrade(50%share) 75,000
TOTAL CARRYOVER WATER CAPITAL PROJECTS 4,037,400
The 2011=13 Capital Improvement Plan requests are based on the Preliminary 2011-13 Financial
Plan. Table E below displays the proposed five-year Capital Improvement Plan for water
services. The proposed capital plan is based on the highest priority projects for the water fund,
with capital expenses based on individual project budget estimates.
A reduction in water sales over the last two years has resulted in water revenues below budget
projections. In order to maintain proposed 2011-13 water rates as previously forecasted in the
2009 and 2010 water fund analyses, the 2011-13 water fund capital plan includes a total of
$311,400 in 2011-12 and $200,000 in 2012-13. The proposed capital budget over the next three
years does not include funding for planned water pipeline replacements. The funding identified
for water distribution system improvements is for paving trench repairs associated with water
PH2-15
Attachment I
Page 6
line repairs performed by City staff and the raising of water valve covers associated with
pavement management projects.
Other capital funding reductions reflected in the capital plan include the Telemetry System
Upgrade $1.5 million construction.component deferred to 201344. Funding for the Telemetry
System Upgrade was approved in the 2009-11 Financial Plan including $325,000 for design and
$1.5 million for construction. The design component will be completed during 2011-13, with the
construction funding deferred to 2013-14.
After three years with a significantly reduced level of new capital projects, the Water Fund
gradually returns to more appropriate long-term funding levels (about $2 million annually) for
water-related infrastructure.
E. Capital Improvement Plan and Forecast
2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16
BUDGET BUDGET PROPOSED PROPOSED PROPOSED
Source of Supply
Water Reuse Automation Improvement 50,000 100,000
Reuse System Analysis/Master Plan Update 40,000 50,000
Water Treatment Plant
Major Facility Maintenance 200,000 100,000 100,000
Fleet Replacement:Compact Pickup 20,000
Fleet Replacement: Service Body Truck 35,000
Water Distribution
Distribution System Improvements 200,000 200,000 200,000 1,487,300 1,421,400
Distribution Pump Station Assessment Study 35,000
Reservoir Maintenance/Tank Replacements : 181,000 446,000
Equipment Replacement:Generator(50%share) 55,000
Distribution Pump Station Upgrades 50,000
Fleet Replacement:Pickup 20,000
AdmirdEstradon and Engineering
Fleet Replacement:Sedan 20,000
Fleet Replacement:Compact Pickup 20,000
Water Division Asset Management Plan 100,000
Total Water Services CIP 290,000 200,000 575,000 1,928,300 2,137,400
Shared City Information Technology
Office Application Software Replace(5%share) 10,000
Wireless Network Infrastructure(14%share) 9,500
City Website Upgrade(40/o share) 1,900
Telemetry System Upgrade-Construction 1,500,000
Virtual Private Network(VPN)Appliances 29,000
Network Firewalls 10,500
Web Filter,Network Security Upgrades 6,500
Network Equipment Replacement 17,000
Total Share of Technology CIP 21,400 0 1,546,000 17,000 0
TOTAL WATER FUND CAPITAL PLAN '311,400 200,000 2,121,000 1,945,300 2,137,400
Detailed supporting documents for each request is provided in Appendix B of the Preliminary Financial Plan,pages 3-54 to 3-76.
Maintaining the water system infrastructure, including pipeline replacements, major equipment
upgrades, ongoing treatment processes, technology, and long-term infiastructure upgrade and
replacement planning is essential to providing high quality, safe, and reliable water services for
the community.
PH2-16
Attachment 1
Page 7
III. WATER RATE SETTING
A. Water Rate Structure
Current policies to guide rate structure setting:
■ Comply with legal requirements
e Encourage conservation
■ Ensure revenue adequacy to fully meet system operating and capital needs
• Provide equity and fairness between-customers
■ Be easy to understand and administer
■ Facilitate ongoing review to maintain rate stability
The current water rate structure is commodity-based with charges based on the volume of water
used. The table below shows the water rate structure with the current 2010-11 water rates.
Ulm
Customer Type Single Family All Other Customers
Residential Customers
Inside the City Rates 1 -5 Units $5.21/Unit 2 1 -5 Units $5.21/Unit
6-25 Units $6.52/Unit 6+ Units $6.52/Unit
26+ Units $8.17/Unit
Outside the City Rates' I -5 Units $10.42/Unit 1 -5 Units $10.42/Unit
6-25 Units $13.04/Unit 6+ Units $13.04/Unit
26+ Units $16.34/Unit
'Third tier charges for more than 25 units are applicable for Single Family Residential(SFR)customers
'I unit =100 Cubic Feet=748 gallons of water
'For service to customers outside the City,the water razes are two times Che"in-City"rate.
B. Proposed Water Rate Changes
The proposed water rate increases for 2011-12 and 2012-13 are the same rates as previously
forecasted in the 2009 and 2010 water fund analyses presented to the City Council over the past
two years. The following table displays the current and proposed water rates for the average
residential customer, assuming an average of nine (9) units of water monthly. In the past, the
average residential customer's water usage was ten (10) units monthly. Based on actual water
usage the average residential customer's water usage is reduced to nine (9) [nuts of water
monthly beginning in 2010-11.
PH2-17
Attachment 1
Page 8
The table below illustrates the changes to the monthly bill with the proposed rate increases.
Average Residential Water Customer Monthly Bill
Assuming nine(9)units.of water use per month
Units2010-11 2011-12 Z 2012-13 Z
l -5 $5.21 /unit 26.05 $5.73/unit 28.65 $6.25/unit 31.25
6-25 $6.52/unit 26.08 $7.17/unit 28.68 $7.82/unit 31:28
26+ $8.17/unit n/a $8.99/unit n/a $9.80/unit n/a
$52.13 $57.33 $62.53
One(1)unit= 100 Cubic Feet=748 gallons of water
Z Water rate increases for the average residential customer are$5.20 monthly in 2011-12,plus$5.20 monthly in 2012-13
3 For service to customers outside the City,the water rates are two times the"in-City"rate.
IV. ASSUMPTIONS
The following provides more detail for the key assumptions in Exhibit A.I. and A.2. to this
report. The financial schedules include the Water Fund changes in financial position and
assumption for the Water Fund projections included in the Analysis.
A. Revenues
1. Revenue projections for water service charges are calculated based on the
percentage increase in rates applied to the 2010-11 revised revenue budget,
assuming no net growth in water deliveries when compared to metered water usage
estimates as projected for 2010-11 year-end.
2. Revenue projections for Cal Poly are based on historic use and the 2007 Agreement
between the City and the University. This agreement, covering the period beginning
July 1, 2007 and extending through June 30, 2012, set the proportion (66%) of the
non-residential rate the University pays to account for the University's difference
from other customers (the University owns its own water supply and capacity
interest at the Water Treatment Plant associated with the 1994 plant upgrade).
Utilities and University staff will enter into discussions in summer 2011 to
negotiate and develop the 2012 Agreement between the City and the University.
Utilities staff develops the proposed water rate methodology which reviews five
years of financial data to determine the University's appropriate ratio of the adopted
water rates.
3. Development impact fee collection is calculated according to the actual 2009-10
base year revenues and adjusted by projected inflation based on consumer price
index (CPI) and growth. Current assumptions, which are intended to be
conservative, include no significant growth in development activity in 2011-13. CPI
is projected at 1.5% in 2011-12 and 1.8% in 2012-13 to be applied to the current
development impact fee amount effective July 1st of each year, respectively.
Annually, this calculation is evaluated and proportionately adjusted due to changes
in growth as well as development occurring under maps vested prior to current
PH2-18
Attachment 1
Page 9
impact fee establishment. Development in those areas pay those fees in place at the
time of approval plus an annual adjustment based on the consumer price index. For
2010-11 water development impact fee revenues are projected at$567,400, which is
27% ($119,200) greater than the prior year actual of $448,200 in 2009-10. The
increase in 2010-11 includes impact fees from development activity including
commercial developments in the Los Osos Valley Road and Calle Joaquin areas.
Water development impact fee revenues for 2011-12 are projected at$383,800.
B. Expenses
Operating and Maintenance Expenses
Total operating and maintenance costs for 2011-13 are based on the proposed 2011-13
Financial Plan. Forecasted operating and maintenance costs assume an inflationary rate of
2% for non-staffing (1.5% for staffing) in 2013-14, with 2.5% for non-staffing (2% for
staffing) in 2014-15, and 2.5% for both staffing and non-staffing in 2015-16.
The most significant non-staffing operating costs for water services are for: (1) the City's
share of the Nacimiento Water Project debt service cost that is facilitated through the
county, and accounted for as an operating expensed (2) electric utility services to pump
raw water from the reservoirs, for water treatment and distribution of potable water, and
for the production.and distribution of recycled water, and; (3) water franchise fees paid to
the general fund.
In the two-year 2011-13 Financial Plan when annualized, the Nacimiento debt service
payment is about $4.74 million annually, electric utility service is projected at over$1
million annually, and water franchise fees paid to the general fund at over $500,000
annually.
1. With the Nacimiento water supply project debt financing facilitated through the
County, the City's share of the project debt service is accounted for as an operating
expense. The City's share of the Nacimiento project annual costs began in 2010-11,
with operating costs and an interest only payment for debt service. The full debt
service payment including principal and interest is about $4.74 million annually
beginning in 2011-12.
2. Electric utility rate assumptions, as provided by PG&E, include a rate increase of
3.6% in 2011-12 and 4.0% in 2012-13 for commercial and industrial accounts. In
addition, Utilities staff conducted a detailed analysis of recent electrical usage
trends for water services. The outcome from this analysis resulted in an electrical
budget reduction in water distribution annually in 2011-13 due to increased energy
efficiencies. Additionally, the Water Treatment Plant electric budget is reduced in
2011-12 (compared to 2010-11 and when considering a 3.6% rate increase) based
on current water treatment processes and projected production levels, with a 1%
increase in electric utility budget at the WTP in 2012-13. Of the total water fund
electric utility service cost estimates approximately 55% is for water supply, with
about 45% attributable to the treatment and distribution of potable and recycled
water.
3. Water franchise fees are calculated based on 3.5% of audited gross revenues from
the previous year, excluding investment and property revenues, other revenues, and
PH2-19
Attachment I
Page 10
bond proceeds. Public Utilities Code Sections 6001 et seq. and 6201 et seq.; and
Section 39732 of the Government Code,provides cities with the authority to impose
fees on privately owned utility companies and other businesses for the privilege of
using the City's infrastructure in the course of daily business. Given that the City's
water pipes, valves, and services are within the City's streets (infrastructure) to
distribute water for the community, a franchise tax is charged to the water fund and
payable to the general fund. The 3.5%rate of gross revenues was changed July 1,
2003 from 2%to 3.5%.
Capital Improvement Plan Project Expenses
Project budget estimates in the capital plan forecast include inflationary adjustments,
assuming a moderate increase in material costs over time (e.g., price per foot of pipe).
During the past three years, with the downturn in the construction industry, the
construction bidding climate has remained competitive..Based on many factors, but
particularly with changes in oil prices, this year (2011) the City is beginning to see
increased costs for construction-related materials. For 2011, on the whole, oil prices are
expected to be higher than 2010 levels. Higher oil prices result in increased costs for
petroleum-based products that are used in construction related materials (pipe, asphalt,
cement, plastics, synthetic rubber, solvents, lubricating oils, etc.) and transportation fuels
such as gasoline and diesel used in vehicles, construction related equipment, and the
transport (freight) of construction materials. In addition, metal prices are steadily
increasing including copper, nickel, aluminum, and other metals used in construction
materials and equipment.
Key assumptions for capital projects are that the actual cost of completing any particular
project will vary from the preliminary "budgetary" cost estimate. While cost estimates
are intended as a budgetary guide, it is anticipated that all of the projects listed for each
year will be completed.
C. Debt Service Payments
1. Debt service for the 1994 upgrade of the Water Treatment Plant, the 2002
Refunding Water Revenue Bond debt payment, is $688,200 in 2011-12 and
$692,900 in 2012-13.
2. Debt service for the 2006 upgrade of the Water Treatment Plant, the 2006 Water
Revenue Bond, is $1,034,000 in 2011-12 and$1,034,600 in 2012-13.
3. Debt service for the repayment of the State Revolving Loan Fund for the
construction of the Water Reuse system is $525,500 annually in 2011-13.
4. Debt service to pay for the Water Fund's proportionate share of the energy
conservation project is $29,200 in 2011-12, with the final debt payment of$29,300
in 2012-13.
.5. Debt service for the Water Fund's proportionate share of the City's Public Safety
Communications Center is $29,000 in 2011-12 and $28,800 in 2012-13. In addition,
the Water Fund's share of the Public Safety Radio System Upgrade is $37,900 in
2011-12 and $37,800 in 2012-13. When combined, the Water Fund's share is
$66,900 in 2011-12 and $66,600 in 2012-13.
PH2-20
Attachment I
Page 1 I
6. Debt service is currently projected in the long-term financial forecast at$1,128,300
annually beginning in 2021-22 for Ozone Generation Upgrades at the Water
Treatment Plant, based on total project costs currently estimated at $16.6 million
including $100,000 for study in 2017-18, $1.5 million for design in 2019-20, and
$15 million for construction in 2021-22.
V. MAJOR ACTMTIES AND PROGRAMS
A. 2010-11 Update
1. Nacimiento Pipeline Water Supply Project
The construction of the Nacimiento Project was completed in December of 2010
and water deliveries to the City of San Luis Obispo water treatment plant began in
January 2011. The initial preliminary studies for the project started in 1992 and
culminated this year with the commissioning of this very important project.
The project includes 45 miles of pipeline, three pump stations, and three water
storage tanks. The project participants currently include the City of Paso Robles,
Templeton Community Services District, Atascadero Mutual Water Company,
County Service Area l0A (Cayucos), and the City of San Luis Obispo. With the
addition of this water resource to the City's water supply portfolio, the City is now
positioned to have sufficient water to meet the City's General Plan build-out
projections and has also established the "reliability reserve" as identified in the
Water Management Element to the General Plan and the City Charter(Section 909).
2. Water Distribution System Improvements
While funding for replacement of old pipelines in the City's water distribution
system has been eliminated for the next three years, there will be improvements
made to the system this summer from previously approved budgets. The City
awarded a major water main replacement project for numerous areas around the
City. The project funding is approximately $1 million and targets old, deteriorated
pipelines that have reached the end of their useful life. Construction of this
waterline replacement project begins in mid-June 2011.
In addition, as a result of the major water main break in Johnson Avenue(in front of
French Hospital) which occurred on May 31, 2010, a project to repair the damaged
roadway was required to be undertaken. This project will replace approximately
350 linear feet of 16 inch cast iron waterline with a more durable and stronger
ductile iron pipe in the area of the major street reconstruction. This project was
identified to eliminate the potential for another water main failure under the newly
reconstructed roadway. As part of this project, City staff identified an option to
provide a second point of connection to the City's water system for French Hospital
to minimize future disruptions to this critical facility. Staff initiated. discussions
with French Hospital representatives who agreed to participate in the project to fund
this second point of connection to improve the reliability of water service to the
hospital. This project will be under construction this summer and has a total
estimated project cost of$194,000.
PH2-21
Attachment I
Page 12
3. Telemetry System Upgrade Design
An upgrade to the Utilities Department telemetry system for the water distribution
and the Whale Rock water conveyance systems was approved in the 2009-11
Financial Plan, Appendix B, pages 3-99 to 3-101. The approved funding identified
$400,000 for the design phase and $1,850,000 for the construction phase. The
funding for the Whale Rock portion of the project is provided through the Whale
Rock Fund and is shared by the Whale Rock Commission agencies (Cal Poly,
California Men's Colony, and the City of San Luis Obispo). The City's share of the.
Whale Rock cost is 55.05% which represents the City's portion of ownership in
Whale Rock Reservoir. The Water Fund's share of the project cost is about
$366,300 for the design phaseand$1,692,700 for the construction phase.
The telemetry systems provide oversight and operation of the facilities which are
critical for the efficient and reliable delivery of water. The current systems are over
20 years old and have far exceeded the normal life for this type of system. Funding
for construction of the City's costsassociated with the water distribution component
of the project ($1.5 million) has been moved out to the 2013-14 fiscal year. Staff
has prepared the request for proposals for the design of the project. The design will
be completed over the next year and the-project construction for both the Whale
Rock and Water Distribution components of this project will likely begin in the
summer of 2013.
4. Computerized Maintenance Management System Upgrade
The Utilities Department utilizes a computerized maintenance management system
to effectively manage the wastewater collection, stormwater, and water distribution
systems in the city. These critical assets require diligent oversight and maintenance
to ensure reliable provision of services to the community. The existing computer
software is outdated and will no longer be supported in the near future. The City
Council approved the request for proposals for the upgrade of this system on May
17, 2011. The total budget for this project is $265,000, with$120,000 attributable to
the Water Fund.
B. 2011-12 and Forecast
1. Salinas Reservoir Infrastructure Upgrades
The San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District
operates the Salinas Reservoir under contract with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. Through payments identified in the City's source of supply program, the
City pays for the total cost of operating and maintaining Salinas Reservoir and the
delivery system for transporting raw water to the City's water treatment plant. In
2007, City and County staff began forecasting budgetary needs fora booster pump
station upgrade for the delivery system. The pump station was built in 1941-42 and
many components of the facility are original equipment. The studies and design for
the project have been underway for the past several years and the project is
currently out to bid. The total cost estimate for the project is $1.5 million, including
studies, design, construction, and construction management. Project completion is
anticipated by the summer of 2012.
PH2-22
Attachment 1
Page 13
2. Recycled Water System Improvements
The proposed budget includes two capital projects in 201.142 for improvements to
the City's recycled water system. The Water Reuse System Major Maintenance
Project identifies $50,000 in 2011-12 and $100,000 in 2013-14 for the purchase of
additional equipment associated with the production of recycled water at the Water
Reclamation Facility. The project will provide improvements to the automation and
overall efficiency for providing reliable recycled water to the community.
The Water Reuse Distribution System Analysis and Master Plan Update identifies
funding of$40,000 in 2011-12 for studies to address fluctuations in water pressure,
and $50,000 in 2014-15 to update the 2004 Water Reuse Master Plan. The study in
2011-12 involves evaluation of options to eliminate problems associated with large
pressure fluctuations in the water delivery system. The study identified in 2014-15
includes updating the 2004 Water Reuse Master Plan. The Master Plan identified
the goal of utilizing 1,000 acre feet per year (afy) of recycled water. Current
recycled water use is approximately 160 afy. The 2004 Master Plan identified an
option for an agricultural exchange of recycled water in the amount of 400 afy for a
similar amount of groundwater for municipal use. This is no longer a viable
alternative..The update to the Master Plan will identify,facilities needed to expand
the delivery system to achieve the goal of utilizing 1,000 afy of recycled water in
the city.
PH2-23
Attachment 1
Page 14
EXHIBIT A
2011 WATER FUND
FINANCIAL SCHEDULES
PH2-24
Attachment 1
Exhibit A.1.
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Attachment 1
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_ Attachment 1
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PH2-27
ATTACHMENT 2
an lues ompo
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PROPOSED RATE INCREASES FOR
WATER AND SEWER SERVICE
A public hearing on proposed water and sewer rate increases will be held on:
DATE: TUESDAY, JUNE 145 2011
TIME: 7:00pm
PLACE: CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, COUNCIL CHAMBERS
990 PALM STREET
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401
The hearing will cover the proposed 2011 and 2012 rate increases for water and sewer services. This notice has
been sent to all customers who currently receive either of these services provided by the City of San Luis Obispo.
If adopted, the proposed rate increases will become effective July 1, 2011 and July 1, 2012.
This Notice of Public Hearing provides information regarding proposed rate increases to the City's water and sewer service customers
pursuant to the requirements of California Constitution Article XIII(commonly referred to as Proposition 218). The proposed rate increases
will be presented to the City Council for adoption on Tuesday,June 14, 2017, at 7.•00 p.m.,in the Council Chambers. This notice also provides
information on how rates are calculated, the reasons for the required rate increases, how customers can receive more information on the
effect of the proposed rate increases on their water and sewer bills,and how to file a protest against the proposed rate increases.
HOW ARE WATER AND SEWER RATES CALCULATED?
Annually, the City prepares detailed analyses of the revenues and expenditures for the Water and Sewer Funds to ensure
that sufficient revenues are collected to effectively provide for the water and sewer service needs of the community. These
analyses include a minimum five-year look ahead in order to adequately prepare the funds for upcoming expenses and to avoid
significant unexpected increases in rates.
The long-term rate analyses look at projected operating costs including electricity, chemicals, staffing, supplies, minor
equipment and repairs, contract services, debt service, reserves, and capital program costs which include replacing pipes,
tanks, pump stations, vehicles, master planning and system studies, major treatment plant upgrades and repair projects. When
there is a large capital project needed to support the community's service needs out in the future, incremental rate increases
over a number of years is the preferred method for ensuring rate stability.
Water and sewer services are operated as enterprise funds, which means revenues to support operations and capital
improvements must be funded by the rate payers receiving the services. Projected revenues from sources in addition to user
rates, such as development impact fees, loan proceeds, and investment earnings are also included in the annual analyses.
=CrLyof
san Luis .. NOTICE OF
ATTACHMENT 2
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE REVENUES THAT ARE COLLECTED?
Revenues received from water and sewer charges are restricted solely for the programs and services related to the community's
water and sewer service. This chart shows how the revenues are used.
Capital
Investments
Operating
Programs
Utilities
Staffing
The primary uses of revenue go to pay for capital projects (investing the money directly back into the system); electricity,
chemicals, parts, and equipment to maintain operations of the treatment plants, and the distribution and collection systems,
and staff to operate and maintain the systems to ensure the community has water and sewer services 24 hours a day.
WHY ARE THE WATER AND SEWER RATES BEING INCREASED?
There are several reasons water rates need to be increased. The major driver is assumptions made when current water .
rates were set two years ago that did not anticipate the unprecedented drop in water use by the community, especially in the last
year. Cool weather, plentiful rain, outstanding conservation practices, a fully volume-based water rate, recessionary pressures, and
changing demographics all have contributed to the decrease in water sales. The resulting decrease in revenues has been significant
and rates need to increase in order to continue to pay for the community's investment in securing its new water supply sources, to
continue meeting the ongoing operating and maintenance program needs, and to maintain prudent reserves.
The proposed increase to sewer rates is needed to fund required upgrades to the City's water reclamation facility in
order to meet added regulatory requirements for protection of San Luis Obispo Creek. This is a very large capital project and the
fund is being prepared through incremental rate increases to be able to pay the future debt service for this project. In addition,
the proposed rates will assist in funding several other major capital projects in the wastewater collection system including
replacing two failing lift stations and a pipe crossing a creek. Finally, the proposed rates are needed to fund ongoing operations
and maintenance costs of an aging infrastructure in both the wastewater collection system and the water reclamation facility.
For questions regarding the City's water and sewer operations and maintenance programs, or inquiries about specific water or
sewer capital projects, please contact the Utilities Department at (805) 781-7215.
WHAT ACTIONS ARE BEING TAKEN TO CONTROL COSTS?
Work to control costs is continuous and the City remains focused on keeping rate increases to a minimum. Interns and
volunteers are used extensively in order to get the job done. In 2009, three positions were eliminated; one from water
operations, one from sewer operations, and one management position. Employees are empowered to take action to reduce
expenses and especially focus on ways to reduce energy and chemical costs. Two extensive, no-cost energy audits have been
conducted at the Water Reclamation Facility and energy reduction projects are actively being explored. Efficiency measures,
like the low-cost local purchase of three-wheeled scooters that helped to reduce the walking time to read meter routes by one
hour each day and reduced fuel use have been successfully implemented.
All water and sewer work programs started with zero-based budgets: the existing budget was not increased by some
percentage but was essentially rebuilt from scratch. Vehicles scheduled to be replaced wil continue to be used for at least two
more years to further reduce expenditures in 2011-13.
NOTICEOF
ATTACHMENT 2
WHAT ARE THE PROPOSED RATES?
Under the City's water and sewer rate structures, bills are based on customer usage choices and resulting demand on the water
and sewer systems. The City has a commodity-based water rate-the service charge is fully based on the volume of water used.
The sewer rate contains two components-a minimum base charge and a service charge based on the volume of water used.
Residential sewer accounts include a cap on the volume, set at the 3-month average of winter water use (also referred to as the
"sewer cap").
The following shows current and proposed rates for accounts inside the City limits. For the few accounts outside of the City
limits, rates are twice the amounts shown.
TABLE 1. CURRENT AND PROPOSED WATER RATES
USE CURRENT PROPOSED JULY 1, 2011PROPOSED JULY 1, 2012
Single Family Residential
1 to 5 units' $5.21 $5.73 $6.25
6 to 25 units $6.52 $7.17 $7.82
26 or more units $8.17 $8.99 $9.80
All Other
1 to 5 units $5.21 $5.73 $6.25
6 or more units $6.52 $7.17 $7.82
All rates shown are for one unit of water. A unit equals 748 gallons.
TABLE 2. CURRENT AND PROPOSED SEWER RATES
USE CURRENT PROPOSED JULY 1, 2011 PROPOSED JULY 1, 2012
Single Family Residential including single metered condominiums and townhomes
Base fee per dwelling unit (minimum charge) $6.55 $7.01 $7.43
Volume (service) charge per unit $7.22 $7.73 $8.19
NOTE. Total monthly charge is capped based on average winter water use'
Master-metered Multifamily Dwellings in any duplex, apartment house, or rooming house
Mobile Home or Trailer
Base fee per account (minimum charge) $6.55 $7.01 $7.43
Volume (service) charge per unit $7.22 $7.73 $8.19
NOTE:For accounts without a separate irrigation meter, the total monthly charge is capped based on average winter water use.
Accounts with a separate irrigation meter have no cap.
Public, Private, or Parochial School
Per average daily attendance (ADA)
at the school $5.85 - $6.26 $6.64
All Other Accounts -
Minimum charge per account $6.55 $7.01 $7.43
Volume (service) charge per unit $7.22 $7.73 $8,19
'For single family residential and for those master-metered multifamily dwellings and mobile home or trailer parks without a
separate irrigation meter, the sewer service charge is based on the volume of water used during a 3-month period during the
winter months (December-March, depending on when your meter is read). This is known as the average winter water use. The
volume of water used during this period-is used to calculate your sewer cap.
NOTICEOF
ATTACHMENT 2
CO PRESORTED SrANDARD
'y� 1 c U.S.POSTAGE PAID
sAI I uis ompO SAN LUIS MAILING SERVICE
93401
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
879 Morro Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON A TYPICAL RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER?
The following shows the impact of the increase on a typical residential customer, which assumes 9 units of water use per month
and a sewer cap of 6 units per month. Even though current water rates are proposed to increase, the average water bill would
decrease slightly in the first year. This is because the amount of water the average residential customer is using has decreased
from 10 to 9 units and the average sewer cap has decreased from 7 to 6 units per month.
SAMPLE RESIDENTIAL WATER AND SEWER BILL
JULY 1, 2011 PROPOSED JULY 1, 2011PROPOSED JULY 1, 2012
Water Service $58.65 $57.33' $62.53
Sewer Base Fee $6.55 $7.01 $7.43
Sewer Service Use Fee $43.32 $46.38 $49.14
Average water use for a typical residence has decreased from 10 units to 9 units
HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE
PROPOSED INCREASES?
Information to help you calculate how the proposed rates affect your bill is on the Web at www.slocity.org/utilities; click on "How
to Calculate Your Water and Sewer Bill." If you keep your old water and sewer bill, you can look back at the units of water you
used and your sewer cap to determine how the proposed rate may impact you. You can also look up your bill online by going
to www.slocity.org and clicking "Pay Utility Bill". You may also call Utility Billing at (805) 781-7097 or the Utilities Department at
(805) 781-7215 for assistance.
HOW DO I PROTEST THE PROPOSED WATER AND/OR
SEWER RATE?
Proposition 218 mandates how protests to water and/or sewer rates are conducted. Customers directly responsible for the
payment of the fee subject to the proposed rate change or the property owner of the service address may submit a written
protest against the proposed rate. If written protests are received from a majority of the affected customers or the property
owners, the proposed rate will not be imposed.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS IN ORDER FOR YOUR PROTEST TO BE VALID:
1. The protest must be in writing and received by the City Clerk at or before the public hearing. Written protests may be
mailed or personally delivered to the City Clerk at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
2. All written protests must contain the service address.
3. The protest must be signed by either the account holder or the property owner of the service address.
NOTICEOF R RATES Designed by:Verdto Marketing Ink Printed or ICC L; d ra-Ir
i
f I
ATTACHMENT 3
RESOLUTION NO. (2011 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
ESTABLISHING WATER SERVICE RATES
WHEREAS, it is the policy of the City of San Luis Obispo to review enterprise fund fees
and rates on an ongoing basis and to adjust them as required to ensure that they remain equitable
and adequate to fully cover the cost of providing services; and
WHEREAS, a comprehensive analysis of Water Fund operating, capital and debt service
needs has been performed for fiscal years 2011-13 through 2015-16; and
WHEREAS, this comprehensive analysis has been revised based on updated revenue and
expenditure information; and
WHEREAS, the Council has reviewed the water service rates necessary to meet system
operating, capital and debt service requirements.
WHEREAS, a public hearing was properly noticed and held on June 14, 2011; and
WHEREAS, a majority protest, as contemplated by Article XIII D of the California
Constitution, was not received by the conclusion of the public hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Resolution No. 10094 (2009 Series) is hereby rescinded, effective 11:59
p.m. June 30, 2011.
SECTION 2. The rates set forth in Exhibit "A" are hereby adopted, establishing water
rates effective July 1, 2011 and July 1, 2012.
SECTION 3. The water system access charges for emergency purposes, such as fire
protection are increased from $42.40 per month to $46.64 per month, effective July 1, 2011 and
$50.84 effective July 1, 2012 to reflect the increase in water rates.
Upon motion of seconded by
and on the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
R
PH2-32
Resolution No. (2011 Series) ATTACHMENT 3
Page 2
The foregoing resolution was adopted this day of 2011.
Mayor Jan Marx
ATTEST:
Elaina Cano
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
C1.
Cstine Dietrick
City Attorney
PH2-33
i
Resolution No. (2011 Series) ATTACHMENT 3
Page 3
EXHIBIT A
MONTHLY WATER SERVICE RATES
Rates Effective July 1, 2011
Customer Type Single Family Residential All Other Customers
Customers
Inside the City Rates 1 -5 Units $5.73/Unit 1 -5 Units $5.73/Unit
6 -25 Units $7.17/Unit 6+ Units $7.17/Unit
26+ Units $8.99/Unit
Outside the City Rates' 1 -5 Units $11.46/Unit 1 -5 Units $11.46/Unit
6 -25 Units $14.34/Unit 6+ Units $14.34/Unit
26+ Units $17.98/Unit
For service to customers outside the City,the rates are two times the in City rate.
Rates Effective July 1, 2012
Customer Type Single Family Residential All Other Customers
Customers
Inside the City Rates 1 -5 Units $6.25/Unit 1 -5 Units $6.25/Unit
6-25 Units $7.82/Unit 6+ Units $7.82/Unit
26+ Units $9.80/Unit
Outside the City Rates' 1 -5 Units $12.50/Unit 1 -5 Units $12.50/Unit
6 -25 Units $15.64/Unit 6+ Units $15.64/Unit
26+ Units $19.60/Unit
For service to customers outside the City,the rates are two times the in City rate.
1 Unit= 100 Cubic Feet= 748 Gallons of Water
PH2-34
amr.scouncit mcmoRanoum
Ig ty of an lus owspo, abmmisti ation'aepaatment
DATE: June 14, 2011 ¢ ENED
TO: City Council ;}l��I� 14 11011111
FROM: Katie Lichtig, City Manage §LQ CITY CLERK
SUBJECT: Sewer Rate Structure—Residential o Commercial Conversions
The attached memorandum was originally distributed on June 1, 2010, in preparation for the
2010 Sewer Fund review. Staff is redistributing the memo now because it could help address
comments that may be made during public testimony. Staff will refer to the memo during the
meeting tonight if necessary to clarify any issues regarding the sewer rate structure, and
residential to commercial conversions.
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Paul Rys
PO Box 1502
San Luis Obispo, CA. 93406
July 7, 2009 k-T- Ctrs? Aal& BIS
San Luis Obispo City Council Amp"ceI
&&ae- ?ac e�;UAAkA
Re: AWWU Sewer rate structure Account# 130-0082-00-01
1302 Marsh Street
Dear City Council,
The purpose for this letter is to inform you that the present sewer rate structure for 1302 Marsh Street is
inequitable in that older homes that have been converted into offices, such as this property,are not able to
utilize the average winter water use (AWWU) in order to calculate the sewer cap. The result of this is that
the sewer rates are not volume based, as all water usage,even for landscaping,is being double-charged as if
it were being used for sewage.
The water used for this property for sewage averages only 1 unit per month,yet at those times of the year,
when landscaping requires water, any units used above one unit are charged not only for water, but also
charged for sewer use.
The City has"a community-based water rate—the service charge is wholly based on the volume of water
used. The sewer rate contains two components—a minimum based charge and a service charge based on
the volume of water used".
The present sewer rate structure does not allow for converted residential properties that now serve the
comm ercia/office demands of the city,to benefit from the AWWU rates. This property has low water usage
similar to single-family residential dwellings and in fact uses even less water for sewage than single-family
residences.
This property is one of many such properties within the City of San Luis Obispo that helps fill the demand
for office space. Additionally, because these structures are aesthetically appealing and are surrounded by
beautiful landscaping, they help preserve the heritage and beauty that this city is known for that helps draw
in tourists and helps generate revenue.
It has been suggested by city staff that a second meter for landscaping be installed. This option has been
explored and is neither financially nor physically feasible due to the twelve foot wide, sub-standard
sidewalk that may have to be completely rebuilt; not just where it would have to be cut for the new water
line,but the entire area Secondly, the change in the plumbing would be cost prohibitive. The simple
solution would be to have this property included in the AWWU-based sewer rate structure. Then we would
be charged a truly volume-based sewer rate that is consistent with the City's sewer rate policy.
My family and I have invested a considerable amount of money and life energy over the years to restore this
property and make it a beautifiil asset to our wonderful community. We ask that this request be addressed
and go through the proper channels to resolve this issue.
Sincerely,
Paul Rys
i
We the San Luis Obispo property owners named below agree with the concerns of our neighbor,Paul Rys,regarding the
unfair water and sewer rates that we are experiencumg at our properties due to the manner in which the city of San Luis
Obispo computes sewer usage based on all water usage. We support his call for putting on the agenda as soon as
possible a change in the manner in which sewer rates are computed to alleviate the gross overcharging.
Jim Buttery Morris&Garritano Insurance
1102 Laurel Lane 1122 Laurel Lane
Rollie McCormack The Real Estate Group
1306 Higuera Street 952 Mill Street
Matt Kokkonen Marilyn Farmer
1103 Johnson.Avenue 1350 Marsh Street
William Henry Crew Mile Spangler
1397 Marsh Street 15 Higuera Street
Robert Crosby Terry Clark
1457 Marsh Street 1238 Marsh Street
John Pratt Lee and Associates
1303 Higuera Street 1230 Higuera Street
Susan Boatman Daniel Helbert
1305 Marsh Street 1,239 Higuera Street
Krist an Cindrich Ralph Slocum
1368 Marsh Street 1360 Marsh Street
Tom Swem
570 Marsh Street
(partial list)
.s.