Join the Environmental Finance Center Network for a series of breakout sessions presented at the League of Nebraska Municipalities 2019 Utilities/Public Works Section Annual Conference. Facilitated by Nicholas Willis, Program Manager, Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center.

Communicating Important Infrastructure Issues to Elected Officials | 11:00 a.m. – Noon

Water system managers, directors, supervisors and operators may all have to report to a board of directors, commission or council frequently or on an occasional basis. This can be a nerve-wracking and uncertain experience for many people. This webinar will cover what needs to be covered in discussions with board members, what can (generally) be left out and how to present information and recommendations to ensure a continued safe supply of water for your utility.

Key Financial Indicators for Short and Long-term Utility Success | 1:30 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.

This sessions presents several financial ratios for utilities to better track their financial status over time. The use of ratios, such as days of cash on hand, will assist utilities in setting financial goals, policies and allow utilities to stand grounded when examining financial reserves. The use of financial ratios in monthly and annual reporting builds financial capacity in utilities. 

Asset Management for Small Water Systems | 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

With limited revenues, aging infrastructure, and regulatory obligations to meet, a comprehensive approach to managing your system is vital. You may have problems related to unknown meter, valve, or hydrant locations. You may not be sure of which asset(s) to replace given limited funds. Asset Management can help you solve these problems, and more.

Water System Partnerships – From borrowing tools to mergers, what are your range of options? | 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Running a small system can be challenging. Along with meeting regulatory obligations and satisfying customer expectations, you may have issues with aging infrastructure, lack of personnel, and limited financial resources. Furthermore, small systems often cost more to operate per capita than large systems because of economy of scale. One strategy to address these challenges is to work with other utilities. In this session, we will discuss various approaches to collaboration, including: – Informal information sharing – Sharing personnel – Leveraging shared purchasing power – Helping maintain regulatory compliance.

Register HERE.

Facilitator: Nick Willis, Program Manager – Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center

Questions? Contact Leslie Kimble, leslie.kimble@wichita.edu.