We Are San Antonio Water System

San Antonio Water System’s goal is to be the best water and wastewater utility in the United States by 2006, and the 1,600-member SAWS workforce knows that the clock is ticking. Restructuring the organization to become leaner and more efficient from a staffing level and business perspective was an essential first step in that direction.

In 2002, SAWS began its first full year of operation following an extensive reorganization in late 2001. The organization aggressively flattened the management structure by reducing the number of SAWS management positions by 24 percent. New department structures and lines of reporting have created greater efficiencies and stronger accountability as well as saving ratepayers about $4 million.

Any reorganization brings questions, uncertainty, and ideas from employees. To resolve issues, SAWS developed three innovative types of communication. These new programs provide opportunities for SAWS employees to be an integral part of moving the company forward.

The "Gutcheckers" group is composed of about 200 employees from all areas and levels of the organization. Gutcheckers meet monthly to discuss concerns, business issues, provide feedback, and generate improvement ideas.

Brown Bag Lunches with the Boss are held regularly. This is an opportunity for employees to visit with the CEO and share concerns or offer ideas for improvement. Numbers of employees attending are kept small to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate.

The ACE Team (Attitude, Commitment, and Excellence) is a small group of employees selected by the CEO who meet regularly to review, analyze, and recommend changes to existing or new policies and procedures. This group is an important part of management's decision-making process.

In addition to bringing a business mind-set to work each day, SAWS employees spend hundreds of hours of personal time throughout the San Antonio community to make the city a good place to live and work for all citizens. From assisting in painting the homes of those less fortunate, to adopting low-income children for Christmas celebrations, SAWS volunteers are improving the lives of our neighbors in the community.