Agenda - 06-12-2007-4gg - Laserfiche WebLink

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~a A fi «. ~.~.,. EFLAND SEWER SYSTEM Proposal for Rate Study for Srnall Wastewater Collection Utility A successful meeting ensures that project participants are in mutual agreement on project goals, expectations, and assignment of responsibilities. Accomplishing these objectives will help to ensure that the project progresses as smoothly as possible. Prior to the kick-off meeting, we will prepare a detailed data request list that will identify the information needed to complete the scope of work. For this study, it is likely that the data requested will include: • Current and historical Operating Budgets that include data supporting the allocation o£ costs to the Efland System; • The most recent Capital Improvements Plan. ("CII'") that identifies the specific projects associated with the Efland System. • Current utility policies, procedures and regulatory requirements; and • Historical billing data and account data for customers served by the Efland System. Data Collection and Review A primary goal of this task is to obtain a thorough understanding of the financial, operational, regulatory, and political environment and understand the concerns regarding the current rates assessed to the Efland System customers. Historical information will be reviewed related to costs, flows, capital spending, and revenues generated, to provide a better understanding of operating characteristics and to develop appropriate trends and growth factors for developing financial forecasts. During the data collection and review process, we will begin to identify assumptions used to allocate and project costs that will be integrated into our model As these assumptions are identified, County representatives will have an opportunity to review our findings to ensure that the assumptions make sense with regard to the County's pricing objectives. The objective of this task is two-fold. The first is for the County, with RFC's assistance, to identify and prioritize their rate setting objectives and to identify any potential opportunities to adjust the existing rate structure such that it more effectively addresses the County's pricing objectives. The second objective of this task is to develop an understanding of the County's operational and financial. data. Project Management Consistent and competent project management is required to ensure project success and adherence to timelines and budgets. Our management approach stresses communication, teamwork, objectivity, and accountability for meeting project objectives. Management responsibilities extend to general administrative duties such as client correspondence, billing, project documentation, and admisusttation of the study control plan. Project management components are as follows. A. Assignment of key j~roject team members including. • A strong Project Manager, Lex Warmath, who is familiar with the County's water and wastewater systems as well as regional utility trends and issues. He will be responsible for RAFTELIS FINANCIAL6 CONSULTANTS, INC.