HomeMy WebLinkAbout20231229Compliance Filing.pdfFalls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 1 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 1 of 16
Schedule No. 1
General Metered Service Rates
Availability: To all metered customers not served under another schedule.
Minimum Customer Charge and Block Volumes:
Meter Size
Gallons
Allowed in
Minimum
Charge (First
Block)
Gallons in
Block
Volume
(Second
Block)
Gallons in
Block
Volume
(Third
Block)
Monthly
Minimum
Charge
Combined FW & TM - ¾” 8,000 16,000 24,000 $22.50
Combined FW & TM - 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $31.68
Combined FW & TM - 1 ½” 15,000 30,000 45,000 $40.86
Combined FW & TM - 2” 19,000 38,000 57,000 $51.96
Combined FW & TM - 4” 33,000 66,000 99,000 $92.82
Morningview .25 Acre – ¾” & 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $50.00
Morningview .50 Acre – ¾” & 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $60.00
Morningview 1.0 Acre – ¾” & 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $65.50
Commodity Charge: Rate per 1,000 Gallons of Use
First Block Included In Minimum Charge
Second Block $0.640 per gallon
Third Block $1.439 per gallon
Contract Conditions:
The customer shall pay the total of the minimum customer charge plus the commodity charge.
The commodity charge is based on all metered water in excess of the maximum gallons allowed
in the minimum customer charge for the respective usage block in the billing period.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 2 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 2 of 16
Schedule No. 1
General Metered Service Rates (Cont’d)
Consumption is expressed in 1,000-gallon units as expressed by the meter installed by the
Company. The minimum customer charge will apply even when service is provided for less than
the entire billing period.
Meter Reading Schedule:
Meters for all customers, residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, apartment buildings
with two or more units, and condominiums will be read monthly year-round.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 3 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 3 of 16
Schedule No. 2
Non-Recurring Charges
1. RECONNECT FEES:
This charge is applicable to all customers where water has been physically turned off for non-
payment of a delinquent bill.
Rates: Each Occurrence
During regular office hours (Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm) $ 20.00
After office hours $ 40.00
2. FIELD COLLECTION FEE:
This charge is applicable to all customers who pay outstanding bills for service at the time
that Company personnel arrive at the customers’ premises to terminate service.
Rate: Each Occurrence
Field Collection Fee $ 15.00
3. HOOKUP CHARGES:
This charge is applicable when a new service is connected to the system for the first time.
Meter Size of New Connection One Time Charge
¾” Meter $ 500.00
1” Meter $ 600.00
1 ½” Meter $ 930.00
2” Meter $1,205.00
When the installation of a new service line requires the Company to bore a line under a road,
all additional costs will be charged to the customer on a time and materials basis. The new
customer may, at their option, hire a Falls Water Company approved independent contractor to
perform the road bore and connection. The Company will require such contractor to show
proof of bonding, licensing and insurance and have at least five (5) years of experience at hot
tapping water lines. Falls Water Company will inspect and approve all the work being
performed to ensure compliance with the Company’s installation requirements.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 4 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 4 of 16
Schedule No. 2
Non-Recurring Charges (Cont’d)
4. RETURNED CHECK CHARGE:
This charge is applicable to all customers where the customer's check or bank draft is
returned by the bank for insufficient funds, closed account, or some other appropriate
reason.
Rate: Each Occurrence
Returned check charge each occurrence $20.00
5. METER TEST AT CUSTOMER REQUEST CHARGE:
This charge is applicable when the customer requests the Company to test the accuracy of a
meter in the case of a disputed bill.
Rate: Each Occurrence
Error in meter registration of 1.5% or less $10.00
6. LATE PAYMENT CHARGE:
This charge is based on the unpaid balance at the time of the next billing date.
Rate:
1% of delinquent balance per month.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 5 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 5 of 16
Schedule No. 3
Recurring Charges
Secondary Irrigation Rate NON-METERED CUSTOMERS
Monthly Charge $16.85
The Secondary Irrigation Rate applied to customers receiving service for secondary irrigation.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 6 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 6 of 16
GENERAL RULES & REGULATIONS
FOR SMALL WATER UTILITIES
1. GENERAL
1.1 The Customer, in receiving water service, and the Company, in
providing water service, shall both agree to abide by these rules and
regulations.
1.2 In the event that there is a conflict between these rules and
regulations and the Utility Customer Relations Rules (UCRR) and the
Utility Customer Information Rules (UCIR), the Rules and Regulations
of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (Commission) shall take
precedence unless an exception has been granted.
1.3 All recurring and non-recurring charges shall be approved in advance
by the Commission.
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1 Applicant – a potential customer (person, business or government
agency) applying for service to the Company and subject to the
Commission’s rules and regulations.
2.2 Billing Period - the period of time between bills from the Company for
normal services rendered.
2.3 Commission - Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
2.4 Commodity Charge – a recurring charge based only on the quantity of
water used.
2.5 Company – the water company.
2.6 Connection or Hook-Up Fee – a non-recurring charge paid by a
Customer requesting service for partial or full recovery of the
Company's cost of providing a new service connection.
2.7 Contribution in Aid of Construction – a non-recurring charge paid by a
Customer or developer to help defray the cost of system expansion.
2.8 Customer - a person, business or government agency responsible for
paying bills and complying with the rules and regulations of the
company.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 7 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 7 of 16
2.9 Customer Charge – a recurring fixed charge to recover a portion of the
cost of meter reading and billing.
2.10 Fixed or Flat Rate – a recurring charge of a fixed amount, usually in an
unmetered system.
2.11 Franchise Tax – the tax imposed on a Company by a governmental
entity for the privilege of doing business within its boundaries.
2.12 Late Payment Charge – the non-recurring charge levied against any
delinquent balance.
2.13 Minimum Charge – the minimum recurring charge for a billing period
that may or may not include a specified quantity of water.
2.14 Non-recurring Charges – the charges that are not assessed each billing
period.
2.15 Premises – the Customer's property including out buildings which are
normally located on one lot or parcel of ground.
2.16 Rate Schedule - the schedules of all recurring and non-recurring
charges of the Company.
2.17 Reconnection Charge – the charge paid by a Customer to the Company
to restore service after disconnection.
2.18 Recurring Charges – the charges that are assessed each billing period.
2.19 Tariff – the rate schedules and the rules and regulations which govern
the Company's service.
2.20 Utility Customer Information Rules (UCIR) – Information to Customers
of Gas, Electric, and Water Public Utilities - IDAPA 31.21.02.000 et
seq.
2.21 Utility Customer Relations Rules (UCRR) - Customer Relations Rules for
Gas, Electric, and Water Public Utilities Regulated by the Idaho Public
Utilities Commission (The Utility Customer Relations Rules) - IDAPA
31.21.01.000 et seq.
3. SERVICE FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
3.1 The Company shall furnish service to applicants within its certificated
service area in accordance with rates and the rules and regulations
approved by the Commission.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 8 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 8 of 16
3.2 Applicants for water service may be required to sign a standard form
of service application.
3.3 The Company shall not be obligated to provide service at a service
location until any required deposit has been received by the Company
in accordance with the UCRR.
3.4 Special contracts may be required where large investments in special
facilities are necessary to provide the requested service. The
Company may require a contribution toward such investment and
establish such minimum charges as are deemed necessary. All such
contracts shall be subject to the approval of the Commission.
3.5 The Company reserves the right to place limitations on the amount
and character of water service it will supply and to refuse service if, in
its opinion:
a. the Company is required to refuse or limit service by regulatory
authorities having jurisdiction over the Company;
b. the requested service installation is of larger size than is
necessary to properly serve the premises;
c. the permanency of the building, structure, or institution
requesting to be served is such that the Company's investment
in such service is jeopardized;
d. the depth of the applicant’s service line is less than the
minimum depth required for frost protection;
e. the applicants’ proposed service, main or other appurtenance
does not conform to good engineering design or meet the
standard specifications of the Company; or
f. if the applicant refuses to agree to abide by the rules and
regulations of the Company.
If the Company denies service to an applicant for any reason, it shall
immediately provide the applicant with a written explanation of its
decision in accordance with the UCRR.
4. DEPOSITS
4.1 Rules and Regulations regarding deposits can be found in the UCRR.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 9 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 9 of 16
5. RATES
5.1 Rates charged for water service and supply shall be those published in
the Company's tariff and approved by the Commission.
6. BILLING AND PAYMENT
6.1 All Customers shall be billed on a regular basis as identified on the
applicable rate schedule.
6.2 If the system is metered, the Company shall try to read the meters
prior to each billing unless specified differently on the applicable rate
schedule. If the Company's meter reader is unable to gain access to
the premises to read the meter, or in the event the meter fails to
register, the Company will estimate the Customer's water consumption
for the current billing period based on known consumption for a prior
similar period or average of several periods. Subsequent readings will
automatically adjust for differences between estimated and actual.
Bills based on estimated consumption shall be clearly marked as
“estimated”.
6.3 All bills shall clearly indicate the balance due and may be due and
payable no less than 15 days after the date rendered. All bills not paid
by due date may be considered delinquent and service may be
disconnected subject to the provisions of the UCRR.
6.4 A Late Payment Charge may be levied against any delinquent account.
All payments received by the next billing date shall be applied to the
Customer's account prior to calculating the Late Payment Charge.
6.5 The minimum bill or customer charge shall apply when service is
provided for less than one month.
6.6 Owners of premises with one or more condominiums, buildings, stores,
apartments or any other divisions of like or similar character, all of
which are served from one (1) service connection are responsible for
the entire water charges. If the owner desires to cease being
responsible for water bills for such places and desires that the
occupant of each division will be responsible for her or her respective
bill, such transfer of responsibility will not be accepted or recognized
by the Company until the plumbing arrangements of the building or
premises are so changed by the owner or his or her agent as to permit
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 10 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 10 of 16
the Company, to its satisfaction, to serve each division or occupant
separately from the other occupants in the same building.
6.7 Accounts shall be continued, and water bills rendered regularly until
the Company has been duly notified to discontinue service.
7. METERING (If Applicable)
7.1 Meters will be installed by the Company near the Customer's property
line or at any other reasonable location on the Customer's premises
that is mutually agreed upon.
7.2 The Company's representative shall be given access to the Customer's
premises at all reasonable hours for the purpose of obtaining meter
readings. In the event of recurring inaccessibility, the Company may,
at its option and after notifying the customer, relocate its metering
equipment at the Customer's expense.
7.3 The Company shall be responsible for the maintenance of its metering
equipment. Meters are considered to be sufficiently accurate if tests
indicate that meter accuracy is within + 2 percent. When for any
reason a meter fails to register within these limits of accuracy, the
Customer's use of water shall be estimated on the basis of available
data and charges shall be adjusted accordingly. Corrected bills shall
then be sent out to the customer and additional payment, or refund
arrangements shall be made in accordance with the UCRR.
7.4 The Company reserves the right to test and/or replace any meter.
Upon deposit of a "Meter Testing Fee" by a Customer, the Company
will test the Customer's meter. If the test indicates that the meter
over-registers by more than 2 percent, it shall be replaced with an
accurate meter at no cost to the Customer and the "Meter Testing Fee"
shall be refunded and water bills shall be adjusted in accordance with
the UCRR. Meter Testing Fees shall require prior approval by the
Commission.
7.5 At the Company's discretion, un-metered Customers may be converted
to metered service if such transition occurs in a planned, systematic
manner without unreasonable discrimination and if the Company has
an approved metered rate.
7.6 The Company will have the right to set meters or other devices
without notice to the Customer for the detection and prevention of
fraud.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 11 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 11 of 16
7.7 In any building where the meter is to be installed in the basement, the
incoming water pipe must enter the basement at least sixteen (16)
inches from the riser in order that a meter can be set in a horizontal
position in the basement. All pipes to the different parts of the
building or grounds must lead from the riser at least one (1) foot
above the elbow.
8. CUSTOMER PLUMBING AND APPLIANCES
8.1 All plumbing, piping, fixtures and appliances on the Customer's side of
the service connection will be installed and maintained under the
responsibility and at the expense of the Customer or owner of the
premises.
8.2 The plumbing, piping, fixtures and appliances shall be maintained in
conformity with all municipal, state and federal requirements. The
nature and condition of this plumbing, piping and equipment will be
such as not to endanger life or property, interfere with service to other
Customers or permit those with metered services to divert system
water without meter registration.
8.3 A stop-and-waste valve will be installed on the Customer's plumbing in
a place always accessible and so located as to permit shutting off the
water for the entire premises with the least possible delay.
8.4 All persons having boilers, water tanks or other equipment supplied by
direct pressure from the Company's mains should install a pressure
relief valve, or other device to serve the same purpose, so as to
prevent excess pressure from forcing hot water and/or steam back
into the water meter and mains of the Company. All damage to the
Company's property resulting from the failure to properly equip
plumbing with a relief valve will be billed to the Customer.
8.5 The Company is not obligated to perform any service whatever in
locating leaks or other trouble with the customer's piping.
8.6 When the premises served by the Company are also served in any
manner from another water supply of any kind, an approved backflow
prevention device shall be installed at the service connection. Water
service for either stand-by or other purposes will not be furnished until
piping and connections are inspected and approved by a
representative of the Company.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 12 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 12 of 16
8.7 Property owners will not be allowed to connect the water service of
different properties together.
8.8 All of the Customer's service pipes and fixtures must be kept in repair
and protected from freezing at his or her expense. When there are
leaking or defective pipes or fixtures, the water may be turned off at
the option of the Company until the proper repairs are made.
9. INSTALLATION OF SERVICE CONNECTIONS
9.1 The service connection is the property of the Company and as such,
the Company is responsible for its installation and maintenance. It
consists of piping, curbstop and valve or meter box and a meter, if the
system is metered. The service connection transmits water from the
Company's water main to a valve or meter box generally located near
the Customer's property line. All piping, valves or appliances beyond
this point shall be the property and responsibility of the Customer.
9.2 The Company reserves the right to designate the size and location of
the service line, curbstop, meter (if applicable) and meter or valve box
and the amount of space which must be left unobstructed for the
installation and future maintenance and operation thereof.
9.3 Where a service connection is desired for premises on which there is
no permanent structure, the Company will install a service connection
to said premises only upon payment by the applicant of the estimated
cost of said service connection. If within a period of five (5) years
from the installation of said service connection a permanent structure
is erected on the premises, the Company will refund, with interest, the
difference between any approved new Customer charges in effect at
the time of connection, and the applicant's advance.
9.4 The extra costs of any out-of-the-ordinary circumstances requiring
additional equipment or special construction techniques involved in the
installation of a service connection will be agreed to in advance by the
Customer and the Company.
10. REPLACEMENT OR ENLARGEMENT OF SERVICE CONNECTION
10.1 Unless otherwise provided herein, the Company shall replace or
enlarge service connections at its own expense as follows:
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 13 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 13 of 16
10.1. whenever it is necessary to change the location of any service
connection due to relocation or abandonment of the Company's
mains; and,
10.2. for commercial or industrial services where the type or volume
of use has changed, and the enlargement will result in sufficient
increase in annual revenue to justify the enlargement.
10.2 The relocation, enlargement, or reduction of service connections for
the convenience of the Customer will be at the expense of the
Customer. Prior to such relocation, enlargement or reduction, the
Customer will deposit the estimated cost thereof with the Company.
Within fifteen (15) days, a refund will be made to the Customer in the
amount by which the estimated cost exceeds the actual cost. The
amount by which the actual cost exceeds the estimated cost will be
due and payable within fifteen (15) days after billing for such
deficiency.
10.3 Enlargement of any service connection will be made only after such
time as the Customer's plumbing inside his or her premises have been
enlarged sufficiently to accommodate the additional capacity.
11. DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION OF SERVICE
11.1 When a Customer desires to discontinue service he shall give notice to
the Company at least two (2) days in advance and be responsible for
all water consumed for the two (2) days after the date of such notice.
11.2 The Company shall discontinue a Customer's service on an involuntary
basis only in accordance with UCRR.
11.3 When it becomes necessary for the Company to involuntarily
discontinue the water service to a Customer, service shall be
reconnected only after all bills for service then due have been paid or
satisfactory payment arrangements have been made.
11.4 A reconnection fee may be charged each time a Customer is
disconnected, either voluntarily or involuntarily, and reconnected at
the same premises. The reconnection fee will be paid before service is
restored. Reconnection fees shall not be charged for any situation or
circumstance in which the Customer’s water supply is disconnected by
the Company for its convenience.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 14 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 14 of 16
11.5 The Company reserves the right at any time, upon notice, to shut off
the water for maintenance or expansion and, in emergencies, may do
so without notice. The Company shall at all times use reasonable
diligence and care to prevent interruption of said water service.
11.6 Except in the case of an emergency, no one, except an authorized
Company representative, shall turn on or turn off the water on the
Company's side of the service connection.
12. EXTENSION OF WATER MAINS
12.1 The extension of system water mains for the purpose of providing new
service shall be handled in accordance with the “Uniform Main
Extension Rules for Small Water Companies” which is on file with the
Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
13. MISCELLANEOUS
13.1 No customer shall permit any person from another premises to take
water from his or her water service or tap for more than (1) week
without the written permission and consent of the Company.
13.2 No person acting either on his or her own behalf or an agent of any
person, firm, corporation or municipality not authorized by the
Company shall take any water from any fire hydrant on the Company's
system except in the case of an emergency.
13.3 No person shall place upon or about any hydrant, gate, box, meter,
meter box or other property of the Company any building material or
other substance so as to prevent free access at all times to the same.
13.4 Service will be maintained to domestic Customers on a preferential
basis. Delivery of water under all schedules may be restricted,
interrupted or curtailed at the discretion of the Company in case of
shortage or threatened shortage of water.
13.5 No rate contract or application is assignable from one user to another,
except upon the agreement of all parties concerned.
13.6 The Company representative shall be given access to the premises of
the Customer at all reasonable hours for obtaining meter readings, for
turning on or shutting off the flow of water, for inspecting, removing,
repairing or protecting from abuse or fraud any of the property of the
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 15 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 15 of 16
Company installed on the premises. Access shall be granted at all
times for emergency purposes.
13.7 No one shall tamper or interfere with the Company’s equipment or
property, nor shall repairs, connections or replacements be made
without the Company authorization.
13.8 Whenever an applicant desires service of a character for which there is
no available service classification, a contract may be executed in lieu
of a tariff. Any such contract shall be subject to the approval of the
Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
13.9 Copies of the Company's rates and summary of rules and regulations
shall be available at the Company’s office and provided to customers
upon commencement of service, and annually thereafter in accordance
with the UCRR and the UCIR.
14. SPECIAL PROVISIONS OR AMENDMENTS
14.1 It shall be the responsibly of the Customer to keep the area within three
(3) feet of a fire hydrant clear from snow, trees, brush, weeds, growth,
fences, or any other obstructions if a fire hydrant is located upon or
adjacent to the customer’s premises.
15. EQUAL PAY PLAN
15.1 The Residential Equal Play Plan: The Equal Pay Plan is available to
Residential Customers, desiring equal payments for water service. A
Residential Customer may enroll in the Equal Pay Plan at any time during
the year. To be eligible for the Equal Pay Plan, the customer must have a
minimum of 12 consecutive months or service at the current location and
have no past due balances owing at the time of enrollment.
The levelized monthly payments will approximate the 12-month average
of the most current bills. Equal Pay amounts will be recalculated annually
at the 12-month anniversary of the date the customer began paying their
most current Equal Pay Amount. The new monthly payment will be the
recalculated Equal Pay amount. A customers’ Equal Pay amount may
increase, decrease, or stay the same from year to year.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 16 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued December 29, 2023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 16 of 16
Customers with a negative (underpaid) balance in their Equal Pay account
at the time of recalculation will the new monthly Equal Pay charges equal
to the recalculated Equal Pay amount plus one-twelfth of the negative
balance. At the customer’s option, a negative balance may be paid in full
and disregarded for the purposes of calculating the next periods Equal pay
amount. If the negative balance exceeds 25% of the estimated annual bill
for the ensuing annual period, the Company may require that the negative
balance be paid in full. Customers with a positive balance exceeding $25 in
their Equal Pay account at the time of the recalculation may be refunded
at the customer’s request. If no request is made the monthly Equal Pay
charge will be equal to the recalculated Equal Pay amount reduced by one-
twelfth of the positive balance. Upon termination of the Equal Pay
agreement, after all charges for services are paid, positive balances will be
refunded.
Estimates of future costs based on historical changes furnished by the
Company should not be construed by the customer as a guarantee that
the total actual changes will be exceed the estimates. In the event of a
significant changes in rates for water service or substantial deviation from
the customer’s historical water consumptions, the Company may at any
time submit a revised estimate to the customer and require that the
customer pay the revised monthly Equal Pay installment amount as a
condition of continuation in the Equal Pay Plan.
The Equal Pay amount will be billed monthly. Once established, the Equal
pay will remain in effective from year to year until the customer notifies
the Company not less than 30 days prior to the desired date of
cancellation or unless the customer fails to pay the Equal Pay amount.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 111 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5December 29, 20222023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 1 of 816
Schedule No. 1
General Metered Service Rates
Availability: To all metered customers not served under another schedule.
Minimum Customer Charge and Block Volumes:
Meter Size
Maximum
Gallons
Allowed in
Minimum
Charge (First
Block)
Gallons in
Block
Volume
(Second
Block)
Gallons in
Block
Volume
(Third
Block)
Monthly
Minimum
Charge
5/8” andCombined FW & TM - ¾” 12,0008,000 16,000 24,000 $18.7522.50
Combined FW & TM - 1” 17,00011,000 22,000 33,000 $26.4031.68
Combined FW & TM - 1 ½” 22,00015,000 30,000 45,000 $34.0540.86
Combined FW & TM - 2” 28,00019,000 38,000 57,000 $43.3051.96
Combined FW & TM - 4” 49,00033,000 66,000 99,000 $77.3592.82
Morningview .25 Acre – ¾” & 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $50.00
Morningview .50 Acre – ¾” & 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $60.00
Morningview 1.0 Acre – ¾” & 1” 11,000 22,000 33,000 $65.50
Commodity Charge: Rate per 1,000 Gallons of Use
First Block Included In Minimum Charge
For all water use in excess of the maximum gallons
allowed in minimum charge.Second Block
$0.9170.640 per gallon
Third Block $1.439 per gallon
Contract Conditions:
The customer shall pay the total of the minimum customer charge plus the commodity charge.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 112 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5December 29, 20222023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 2 of 816
The commodity charge is based on all metered water in excess of the maximum gallons allowed
in the minimum customer charge for the respective usage block in the billing period.
Schedule No. 1
General Metered Service Rates (Cont’d)
Consumption is expressed in 1,000-gallon units as expressed by the meter installed by the
Company. The minimum customer charge will apply even when service is provided for less than
the entire billing period.
Meter Reading Schedule:
Meters for all customers, residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, apartment buildings
with two or more units, and condominiums will be read monthly year roundyear-round.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 113 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5December 29, 20222023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 3 of 816
Schedule No. 2
Non-Recurring Charges
1. RECONNECT FEES:
This charge is applicable to all customers where water has been physically turned
off for non-payment of a delinquent bill.
Rates: Each Occurrence
During regular office hours (Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm) $ 20.00
After office hours $ 40.00
2. FIELD COLLECTION FEE:
This charge is applicable to all customers who pay outstanding bills for service at
the time that Company personnel arrive at the customers’ premises to terminate service.
Rate: Each Occurrence
Field Collection Fee $ 15.00
3. HOOKUP CHARGES:
This charge is applicable when a new service is connected to the system for the first time.
Meter Size of New Connection One timeTime Charge
¾” Meter $ 500.00
1” Meter $ 600.00
1 ½” Meter $ 930.00
2” Meter $1,205.00
When the installation of a new service line requires the Company to bore a line under a road,
all additional costs will be charged to the customer on a time and materials basis. The new
customer may, at their option, hire a Falls Water Company approved independent contractor to
perform the road bore and connection. The Company will require such contractor to show
proof of bonding, licensing and insurance and have at least five (5) years of experience at hot
tapping water lines. Falls Water Company will inspect and approve all the work being
performed to insureensure compliance with the Company’s installation requirements.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 114 ---
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5December 29, 20222023 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective December 15, 2023 K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
/S/ K. Scott Bruce 4 of 816
Schedule No. 2
Non-Recurring Charges (Cont’d)
4. RETURNED CHECK CHARGE:
This charge is applicable to all customers where the customer's check or bank draft is
returned by the bank for insufficient funds, closed account, or some other appropriate
reason.
Rate: Each Occurrence
Returned check charge each occurrence $20.00
5. METER TEST AT CUSTOMER REQUEST CHARGE:
This charge is applicable when the customer requests the Company to test the accuracy of a
meter in the case of a disputed bill.
Rate: Each Occurrence
Error in meter registration of 1.5% or less $10.00
6. LATE PAYMENT CHARGE:
This charge is based on the unpaid balance at the time of the next billing date.
Rate:
1% of delinquent balance per month.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 11
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5, 2022 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
5 of 8
Schedule No. 3
Recurring Charges
Secondary Irrigation Rate NON-METERED CUSTOMERS
For Former Customers Of Taylor Mountain
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Monthly Charge $20.00
The Minimum Monthly Charge includes usage up to 15,000 gallons.
The Usage Charge is calculated by multiplying metered water consumption during
the billing period by the rate per unit of measurement. The total Usage Charge is
the sum of charges for each Tier.
Tier 1: First 15,000 gallons
(0 to 15,000 gallons) $ 0.00
Tier 2: Next 60,000 gallons
(15,001 to 75,000 gallons) $ 0.71 per 1,000 gallons
Tier 3: Next 50,000 gallons
(75,001 to 125,000 gallons) $ 1.00 per 1,000 gallons
Tier 4: Over 125,001 gallons
(125,001 gallons and over) $ 2.00 per 1,000 gallons
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 11
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5, 2022 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
6 of 8
Schedule No. 4
Non-Recurring Charges
For Former Customers Of Taylor Mountain
Reconnection Charge:
Applies when a Customer requests reconnection following disconnection of
service for:
• non-payment
• a dangerous condition caused by the Customer (e.g., lack of certified
cross connection control)
Does not apply to situations where the Customer requests disconnection to
make repairs or prevent water damage to the Customer’s property. Also
does not apply when service was disconnected by the Company for its
convenience.
Rates: Each Occurrence
During regular office hours $20.00
(Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm)
After office hours $ 40.00
Hook Up Charge:
Applies when the Company must install a new service connection in order
to provide water to a new Customer. $1,179.00
Late Payment Charge:
Applies to the past-due balance owed at the time of the next billing.
One percent (1%)
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 11
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5, 2022 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
7 of 8
Schedule No. 5
Recurring Charges
for Former Customers of Morningview
Lot Size
Minimum
Charge
First Tier
Volume
First Tier
Commodity
Charge
(per 1,000 gal)
Second Tier
Commodity
Charge
(per 1,000 gal)
¼ Acre $55.00 10,000 $ .17 $ .53
½ Acre $65.00 40,000 $ .17 $ .53
1 Acre $70.50 45,000 $ .17 $ .53
The minimum charge varies per lot size and does not include water usage. All mobile
home lots are billed using the ¼ Acre minimum charge and volume rates. Volume
charges are based on the amount of water used by the customer during the billing
period, rounded to 1,000 gallons.
The volume of water billed under the first and second tier rates varies based upon the
size of the lot. The first-tier rate applies to the amount of water used by the customer
up to the first-tier allowance. The second-tier rate applies to each 1,000 gallons used
above the first-tier rate applies to each 1,000 gallons used above the first tier volume
allowance.
EXAMPLE
A customer who is billed under the ¼ Acre rates and used 12,000 gallons a month would
pay:
$55.00 minimum charge
$1.70 first tier charges (10,000 gal. x $ .17 / 1,000 gal.)
$1.06 second tier charges (2,000 gal x $ .53 / 1,000 gal.)
For a total of $57.76
Customers will be billed monthly based on the meter reading from the previous month.
Falls Water Co., Inc.
Sheet 11
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued May 5, 2022 Issued by Falls Water Co., Inc.
Effective K. Scott Bruce, General Manager
8 of 8
Schedule No. 6
Non-Recurring Charges
for Former Customers of Morningview
7. RECONNECT FEES: $25.00
Applies when a customer requests reconnection following disconnection
of service for non-payment. Does not apply to situations where the
customer requests disconnection to make repairs or prevent water
damage to the customer’s property. Also does not apply when service
was disconnected by the Company for its convenience.
8. INSUFFICIENT FUNDS CHARGE: $20.00
Applies when a customer tenders payment for utility service with a
dishonored check or makes an electronic payment on an account with
insufficient funds.
9. LATE PAYMENT FEE: One percent (1%)
Applies to the past due balance owing at the time of the next billing.
Normal business hours are defined as between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through
Friday, excluding holidays.
Schedule No. 7
Recurring Charges
for Former Customers of Honeybee Acres Water Co.
Flat Rate Monthly Charge: $30.0016.85
The flat rate for former Honeybee Acres Water Co. customers is effective until the
customers homes are physically connected to the Falls Water Co., Inc. water system. At
that time, the rates for Falls Water customers found in Schedule No. 1 and Schedule No.
2 will become effective.
The Secondary Irrigation Rate applied to customers receiving service for secondary irrigation.
GENERAL RULES & REGULATIONS
FOR SMALL WATER UTILITIES
1. GENERAL
1.1 The Customer, in receiving water service, and the Company, in
providing water service, shall both agree to abide by these rules and
regulations.
1.2 In the event that there is a conflict between these rules and
regulations and the Utility Customer Relations Rules (UCRR) and the
Utility Customer Information Rules (UCIR), the Rules and Regulations
of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (Commission) shall take
precedence unless an exception has been granted.
1.3 All recurring and non-recurring charges shall be approved in advance
by the Commission.
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1 Applicant – a potential customer (person, business or government
agency) applying for service to the Company and subject to the
Commission’s rules and regulations.
2.2 Billing Period - the period of time between bills from the Company for
normal services rendered.
2.3 Commission - Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
2.4 Commodity Charge – a recurring charge based only on the quantity of
water used.
2.5 Company – the water company.
2.6 Connection or Hook-Up Fee – a non-recurring charge paid by a
Customer requesting service for partial or full recovery of the
Company's cost of providing a new service connection.
2.7 Contribution in Aid of Construction – a non-recurring charge paid by a
Customer or developer to help defray the cost of system expansion.
2.8 Customer - a person, business or government agency responsible for
paying bills and complying with the rules and regulations of the
company.
2.9 Customer Charge – a recurring fixed charge to recover a portion of the
cost of meter reading and billing.
2.10 Fixed or Flat Rate – a recurring charge of a fixed amount, usually in an
unmetered system.
2.11 Franchise Tax – the tax imposed on a Company by a governmental
entity for the privilege of doing business within its boundaries.
2.12 Late Payment Charge – the non-recurring charge levied against any
delinquent balance.
2.13 Minimum Charge – the minimum recurring charge for a billing period
that may or may not include a specified quantity of water.
2.14 Non-recurring Charges – the charges that are not assessed each billing
period.
2.15 Premises – the Customer's property including out buildings which are
normally located on one lot or parcel of ground.
2.16 Rate Schedule - the schedules of all recurring and non-recurring
charges of the Company.
2.17 Reconnection Charge – the charge paid by a Customer to the Company
to restore service after disconnection.
2.18 Recurring Charges – the charges that are assessed each billing period.
2.19 Tariff – the rate schedules and the rules and regulations which govern
the Company's service.
2.20 Utility Customer Information Rules (UCIR) – Information to Customers
of Gas, Electric, and Water Public Utilities - IDAPA 31.21.02.000 et
seq.
2.21 Utility Customer Relations Rules (UCRR) - Customer Relations Rules for
Gas, Electric, and Water Public Utilities Regulated by the Idaho Public
Utilities Commission (The Utility Customer Relations Rules) - IDAPA
31.21.01.000 et seq.
3. SERVICE FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
3.1 The Company shall furnish service to applicants within its certificated
service area in accordance with rates and the rules and regulations
approved by the Commission.
3.2 Applicants for water service may be required to sign a standard form
of service application.
3.3 The Company shall not be obligated to provide service at a service
location until any required deposit has been received by the Company
in accordance with the UCRR.
3.4 Special contracts may be required where large investments in special
facilities are necessary to provide the requested service. The
Company may require a contribution toward such investment and
establish such minimum charges as are deemed necessary. All such
contracts shall be subject to the approval of the Commission.
3.5 The Company reserves the right to place limitations on the amount
and character of water service it will supply and to refuse service if, in
its opinion:
a. the Company is required to refuse or limit service by regulatory
authorities having jurisdiction over the Company;
b. the requested service installation is of larger size than is
necessary to properly serve the premises;
c. the permanency of the building, structure, or institution
requesting to be served is such that the Company's investment
in such service is jeopardized;
d. the depth of the applicant’s service line is less than the
minimum depth required for frost protection;
e. the applicants’ proposed service, main or other appurtenance
does not conform to good engineering design or meet the
standard specifications of the Company; or
f. if the applicant refuses to agree to abide by the rules and
regulations of the Company.
If the Company denies service to an applicant for any reason, it shall
immediately provide the applicant with a written explanation of its
decision in accordance with the UCRR.
4. DEPOSITS
4.1 Rules and Regulations regarding deposits can be found in the UCRR.
5. RATES
5.1 Rates charged for water service and supply shall be those published in
the Company's tariff and approved by the Commission.
6. BILLING AND PAYMENT
6.1 All Customers shall be billed on a regular basis as identified on the
applicable rate schedule.
6.2 If the system is metered, the Company shall try to read the meters
prior to each billing unless specified differently on the applicable rate
schedule. If the Company's meter reader is unable to gain access to
the premises to read the meter, or in the event the meter fails to
register, the Company will estimate the Customer's water consumption
for the current billing period based on known consumption for a prior
similar period or average of several periods. Subsequent readings will
automatically adjust for differences between estimated and actual.
Bills based on estimated consumption shall be clearly marked as
“estimated”.
6.3 All bills shall clearly indicate the balance due and may be due and
payable no less than 15 days after the date rendered. All bills not paid
by due date may be considered delinquent and service may be
disconnected subject to the provisions of the UCRR.
6.4 A Late Payment Charge may be levied against any delinquent account.
All payments received by the next billing date shall be applied to the
Customer's account prior to calculating the Late Payment Charge.
6.5 The minimum bill or customer charge shall apply when service is
provided for less than one month.
6.6 Owners of premises with one or more condominiums, buildings, stores,
apartments or any other divisions of like or similar character, all of
which are served from one (1) service connection are responsible for
the entire water charges. If the owner desires to cease being
responsible for water bills for such places and desires that the
occupant of each division will be responsible for her or her respective
bill, such transfer of responsibility will not be accepted or recognized
by the Company until the plumbing arrangements of the building or
premises are so changed by the owner or his or her agent as to permit
the Company, to its satisfaction, to serve each division or occupant
separately from the other occupants in the same building.
6.7 Accounts shall be continued, and water bills rendered regularly until
the Company has been duly notified to discontinue service.
7. METERING (If Applicable)
7.1 Meters will be installed by the Company near the Customer's property
line or at any other reasonable location on the Customer's premises
that is mutually agreed upon.
7.2 The Company's representative shall be given access to the Customer's
premises at all reasonable hours for the purpose of obtaining meter
readings. In the event of recurring inaccessibility, the Company may,
at its option and after notifying the customer, relocate its metering
equipment at the Customer's expense.
7.3 The Company shall be responsible for the maintenance of its metering
equipment. Meters are considered to be sufficiently accurate if tests
indicate that meter accuracy is within + 2 percent. When for any
reason a meter fails to register within these limits of accuracy, the
Customer's use of water shall be estimated on the basis of available
data and charges shall be adjusted accordingly. Corrected bills shall
then be sent out to the customer and additional payment, or refund
arrangements shall be made in accordance with the UCRR.
7.4 The Company reserves the right to test and/or replace any meter.
Upon deposit of a "Meter Testing Fee" by a Customer, the Company
will test the Customer's meter. If the test indicates that the meter
over-registers by more than 2 percent, it shall be replaced with an
accurate meter at no cost to the Customer and the "Meter Testing Fee"
shall be refunded and water bills shall be adjusted in accordance with
the UCRR. Meter Testing Fees shall require prior approval by the
Commission.
7.5 At the Company's discretion, un-metered Customers may be converted
to metered service if such transition occurs in a planned, systematic
manner without unreasonable discrimination and if the Company has
an approved metered rate.
7.6 The Company will have the right to set meters or other devices
without notice to the Customer for the detection and prevention of
fraud.
7.7 In any building where the meter is to be installed in the basement, the
incoming water pipe must enter the basement at least sixteen (16)
inches from the riser in order that a meter can be set in a horizontal
position in the basement. All pipes to the different parts of the
building or grounds must lead from the riser at least one (1) foot
above the elbow.
8. CUSTOMER PLUMBING AND APPLIANCES
8.1 All plumbing, piping, fixtures and appliances on the Customer's side of
the service connection will be installed and maintained under the
responsibility and at the expense of the Customer or owner of the
premises.
8.2 The plumbing, piping, fixtures and appliances shall be maintained in
conformity with all municipal, state and federal requirements. The
nature and condition of this plumbing, piping and equipment will be
such as not to endanger life or property, interfere with service to other
Customers or permit those with metered services to divert system
water without meter registration.
8.3 A stop-and-waste valve will be installed on the Customer's plumbing in
a place always accessible and so located as to permit shutting off the
water for the entire premises with the least possible delay.
8.4 All persons having boilers, water tanks or other equipment supplied by
direct pressure from the Company's mains should install a pressure
relief valve, or other device to serve the same purpose, so as to
prevent excess pressure from forcing hot water and/or steam back
into the water meter and mains of the Company. All damage to the
Company's property resulting from the failure to properly equip
plumbing with a relief valve will be billed to the Customer.
8.5 The Company is not obligated to perform any service whatever in
locating leaks or other trouble with the customer's piping.
8.6 When the premises served by the Company are also served in any
manner from another water supply of any kind, an approved backflow
prevention device shall be installed at the service connection. Water
service for either stand-by or other purposes will not be furnished until
piping and connections are inspected and approved by a
representative of the Company.
8.7 Property owners will not be allowed to connect the water service of
different properties together.
8.8 All of the Customer's service pipes and fixtures must be kept in repair
and protected from freezing at his or her expense. When there are
leaking or defective pipes or fixtures, the water may be turned off at
the option of the Company until the proper repairs are made.
9. INSTALLATION OF SERVICE CONNECTIONS
9.1 The service connection is the property of the Company and as such,
the Company is responsible for its installation and maintenance. It
consists of piping, curbstop and valve or meter box and a meter, if the
system is metered. The service connection transmits water from the
Company's water main to a valve or meter box generally located near
the Customer's property line. All piping, valves or appliances beyond
this point shall be the property and responsibility of the Customer.
9.2 The Company reserves the right to designate the size and location of
the service line, curbstop, meter (if applicable) and meter or valve box
and the amount of space which must be left unobstructed for the
installation and future maintenance and operation thereof.
9.3 Where a service connection is desired for premises on which there is
no permanent structure, the Company will install a service connection
to said premises only upon payment by the applicant of the estimated
cost of said service connection. If within a period of five (5) years
from the installation of said service connection a permanent structure
is erected on the premises, the Company will refund, with interest, the
difference between any approved new Customer charges in effect at
the time of connection, and the applicant's advance.
9.4 The extra costs of any out-of-the-ordinary circumstances requiring
additional equipment or special construction techniques involved in the
installation of a service connection will be agreed to in advance by the
Customer and the Company.
10. REPLACEMENT OR ENLARGEMENT OF SERVICE CONNECTION
10.1 Unless otherwise provided herein, the Company shall replace or
enlarge service connections at its own expense as follows:
10.1. whenever it is necessary to change the location of any service
connection due to relocation or abandonment of the Company's
mains; and,
10.2. for commercial or industrial services where the type or volume
of use has changed, and the enlargement will result in sufficient
increase in annual revenue to justify the enlargement.
10.2 The relocation, enlargement, or reduction of service connections for
the convenience of the Customer will be at the expense of the
Customer. Prior to such relocation, enlargement or reduction, the
Customer will deposit the estimated cost thereof with the Company.
Within fifteen (15) days, a refund will be made to the Customer in the
amount by which the estimated cost exceeds the actual cost. The
amount by which the actual cost exceeds the estimated cost will be
due and payable within fifteen (15) days after billing for such
deficiency.
10.3 Enlargement of any service connection will be made only after such
time as the Customer's plumbing inside his or her premises have been
enlarged sufficiently to accommodate the additional capacity.
11. DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION OF SERVICE
11.1 When a Customer desires to discontinue service he shall give notice to
the Company at least two (2) days in advance and be responsible for
all water consumed for the two (2) days after the date of such notice.
11.2 The Company shall discontinue a Customer's service on an involuntary
basis only in accordance with UCRR.
11.3 When it becomes necessary for the Company to involuntarily
discontinue the water service to a Customer, service shall be
reconnected only after all bills for service then due have been paid or
satisfactory payment arrangements have been made.
11.4 A reconnection fee may be charged each time a Customer is
disconnected, either voluntarily or involuntarily, and reconnected at
the same premises. The reconnection fee will be paid before service is
restored. Reconnection fees shall not be charged for any situation or
circumstance in which the Customer’s water supply is disconnected by
the Company for its convenience.
11.5 The Company reserves the right at any time, upon notice, to shut off
the water for maintenance or expansion and, in emergencies, may do
so without notice. The Company shall at all times use reasonable
diligence and care to prevent interruption of said water service.
11.6 Except in the case of an emergency, no one, except an authorized
Company representative, shall turn on or turn off the water on the
Company's side of the service connection.
12. EXTENSION OF WATER MAINS
12.1 The extension of system water mains for the purpose of providing new
service shall be handled in accordance with the “Uniform Main
Extension Rules for Small Water Companies” which is on file with the
Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
13. MISCELLANEOUS
13.1 No customer shall permit any person from another premises to take
water from his or her water service or tap for more than (1) week
without the written permission and consent of the Company.
13.2 No person acting either on his or her own behalf or an agent of any
person, firm, corporation or municipality not authorized by the
Company shall take any water from any fire hydrant on the Company's
system except in the case of an emergency.
13.3 No person shall place upon or about any hydrant, gate, box, meter,
meter box or other property of the Company any building material or
other substance so as to prevent free access at all times to the same.
13.4 Service will be maintained to domestic Customers on a preferential
basis. Delivery of water under all schedules may be restricted,
interrupted or curtailed at the discretion of the Company in case of
shortage or threatened shortage of water.
13.5 No rate contract or application is assignable from one user to another,
except upon the agreement of all parties concerned.
13.6 The Company representative shall be given access to the premises of
the Customer at all reasonable hours for obtaining meter readings, for
turning on or shutting off the flow of water, for inspecting, removing,
repairing or protecting from abuse or fraud any of the property of the
Company installed on the premises. Access shall be granted at all
times for emergency purposes.
13.7 No one shall tamper or interfere with the Company’s equipment or
property, nor shall repairs, connections or replacements be made
without the Company authorization.
13.8 Whenever an applicant desires service of a character for which there is
no available service classification, a contract may be executed in lieu
of a tariff. Any such contract shall be subject to the approval of the
Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
13.9 Copies of the Company's rates and summary of rules and regulations
shall be available at the Company’s office and provided to customers
upon commencement of service, and annually thereafter in accordance
with the UCRR and the UCIR.
14. Special Provisions or AmendmentsSPECIAL PROVISIONS OR AMENDMENTS
14.1 It shall be the responsibly of the Customer to keep the area within three
(3) feet of a fire hydrant clear from snow, trees, brush, weeds, growth,
fences, or any other obstructions if a fire hydrant is located upon or
adjacent to the customer’s premises.
15. EQUAL PAY PLAN
15.1 The Residential Equal Play Plan: The Equal Pay Plan is available to
Residential Customers, desiring equal payments for water service. A
Residential Customer may enroll in the Equal Pay Plan at any time during
the year. To be eligible for the Equal Pay Plan, the customer must have a
minimum of 12 consecutive months or service at the current location and
have no past due balances owing at the time of enrollment.
The levelized monthly payments will approximate the 12-month average
of the most current bills. Equal Pay amounts will be recalculated annually
at the 12-month anniversary of the date the customer began paying their
most current Equal Pay Amount. The new monthly payment will be the
recalculated Equal Pay amount. A customers’ Equal Pay amount may
increase, decrease, or stay the same from year to year.
Customers with a negative (underpaid) balance in their Equal Pay account
at the time of recalculation will the new monthly Equal Pay charges equal
to the recalculated Equal Pay amount plus one-twelfth of the negative
balance. At the customer’s option, a negative balance may be paid in full
and disregarded for the purposes of calculating the next periods Equal pay
amount. If the negative balance exceeds 25% of the estimated annual bill
for the ensuing annual period, the Company may require that the negative
balance be paid in full. Customers with a positive balance exceeding $25 in
their Equal Pay account at the time of the recalculation may be refunded
at the customer’s request. If no request is made the monthly Equal Pay
charge will be equal to the recalculated Equal Pay amount reduced by one-
twelfth of the positive balance. Upon termination of the Equal Pay
agreement, after all charges for services are paid, positive balances will be
refunded.
Estimates of future costs based on historical changes furnished by the
Company should not be construed by the customer as a guarantee that
the total actual changes will be exceed the estimates. In the event of a
significant changes in rates for water service or substantial deviation from
the customer’s historical water consumptions, the Company may at any
time submit a revised estimate to the customer and require that the
customer pay the revised monthly Equal Pay installment amount as a
condition of continuation in the Equal Pay Plan.
The Equal Pay amount will be billed monthly. Once established, the Equal
pay will remain in effective from year to year until the customer notifies
the Company not less than 30 days prior to the desired date of
cancellation or unless the customer fails to pay the Equal Pay amount.