BexarMet Dissolution Approved by TCEQ
(5/30/12)
Today, May 30, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality approved the final dissolution of the Bexar Metropolitan Water District (BexarMet).
Last November, 74 percent of BexarMet ratepayers voted to dissolve the utility and consolidate it into SAWS. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Justice cleared November’s election results, allowing dissolution of BexarMet to move forward. With today's action, the former BexarMet district is completely dissolved, with SAWS managing all assets and liabilities.
"Today is another example of positive progress in integrating SAWS and the former BexarMet system," said Robert R. Puente, SAWS President/CEO. "We're proving once again that a single, stable, reliable water system is the best solution for San Antonio families and our growing economy."
Since integration began earlier this year, customers have already seen many service improvements and operational efficiencies:
- A 2012 budget developed with no customer rate increase;
- A 2.5 percent pay raise for employees whose salaries have been unchanged for several years;
- Bond rating agency negative credit watch removal;
- Cost reductions through debt refinancing;
- Interconnect to Anaqua Springs to eliminate trucking water;
- Established BexarMet Integration Advisory Committee; and
- Faster response times through consolidating employees.
While many improvements have already been achieved, SAWS continues to make strides towards full integration. A single billing system for SAWS and former BexarMet customers is expected by July 2012, meaning ratepayers will receive one bill covering their water and wastewater service. In addition, SAWS plans to include recommendations for the former BexarMet service areas in its Water Management Plan update this summer.
Throughout the transition process, SAWS will continue to communicate frequently with the community. Until SAWS notifies otherwise, former BexarMet customers should continue to pay their bills as before. Public meetings will be held as needed, and information will be posted on our website and provided in future bill inserts.
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