HomeMy WebLinkAbout20230412Compliance Filing Tariffs.pdfGem State Water Company
Sheet No. 1
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams-Rayner, General Manager
Schedule No. 1
Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Spirit Lake East Water
Company and Bar Circle “S” Water, Inc.) Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included – Gallons (CCF)
1-Inch $35.00 7,500 (10.02 CCF)
1 ½-Inch $70.00 15,000 (20.05 CCF)
2-Inch $112.00 30,000 (40.10 CCF)
Commodity Charge (gallons): $2.52
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included (7,500
gallons for 1-Inch Meter)
Commodity Charge (CCF): $1.88
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1.0 CCF over 10.02 CCF for customers with usage
measure in cubic feet
(CCF = 100 cubic feet; 1 CCF = 748 gallons)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (e.g., 7,500 gallons / 10.02 CCF for 1-Inch Meter) for each
month that no meter reading is taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate
allowances on the next bill issued after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (7,500 gallons or 10.02
CCF) over a six (6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for
usage exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (45,000 gallons or 60.12 CCF) on the first bill
issued after a meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 2
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 2
Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Diamond Bar Estates,
L.L.C.) Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included - Gallons
1-Inch $41.00 7,500 gallons
Commodity Charge: $2.45
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included (7,500
gallons)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (i.e., 7,500 gallons) for each month that no meter reading is
taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate allowances on the next bill issued
after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (7,500 gallons) over a six
(6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for usage
exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (45,000 gallons) on the first bill issued after a
meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 3
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 3
Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Lynnwood Water)
Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included - Gallons
1-Inch $35.00 15,000
Commodity Charge: $2.45
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included (15,000
gallons)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (i.e., 15,000 gallons) for each month that no meter reading is
taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate allowances on the next bill issued
after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (15,000 gallons) over a six
(6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for usage
exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (90,000 gallons) on the first bill issued after a
meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 4
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 4
Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Bitterroot Water Co.,
Inc. and Rickel Water Company Inc.) Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included - Gallons
1-Inch $35.00 10,000
Commodity Charge: $2.45
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included
(10,000gallons)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (i.e., 10,000 gallons) for each month that no meter reading is
taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate allowances on the next bill issued
after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (10,000 gallons) over a six
(6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for usage
exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (60,000 gallons) on the first bill issued after a
meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 5
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 5
Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Troy Hoffman Water
Corporation, Inc.) Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included - Gallons
1-Inch $35.00 7,500
Commodity Charge: $2.45
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included (7,500
gallons)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (i.e., 7,500 gallons) for each month that no meter reading is
taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate allowances on the next bill issued
after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (7,500 gallons) over a six
(6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for usage
exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (45,000 gallons) on the first bill issued after a
meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 6
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 6
Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Happy Valley Water
System Inc) Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included - Gallons
1-Inch $35.00 15,000
1 ½-Inch $70.00 15,000
2-Inch $112.00 30,000
Commodity Charge: $1.45
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included (15,000
gallons for 1-Inch Meter)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (e.g., 15,000 gallons for 1-Inch Meter) for each month that
no meter reading is taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate allowances on
the next bill issued after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (15,000 gallons) over a six
(6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for usage
exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (90,000 gallons) on the first bill issued after a
meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 7
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 7
Non-Recurring Charges for Gem State Water Customers:
1. Hook up Fee (New Service) - $5,500 per each new customer hook up.
2. New Customer Connection Charge – 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
Gem State Water-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 at least five (5) years of experience at hot tapping water
lines. Gem State Water Master will inspect and approve all work being performed to
ensure compliance with the Company’s installation requirements.
3. Late Payment Charge – One (1%) percent monthly applicable to the unpaid balance
owning at the time of the next billing statement.
4. Reconnection Fees for accounts closed thirty (30) days or less
Requested during normal office hours - $16.00
Requested during other than normal office hours - $32.00
5. Reconnection Fees for accounts closed longer than thirty (30) days
Requested during normal office hours - $52.00
Requested during other than normal office hours - $65.00
6. Return Check fee for each customer check returned to the Company for non-sufficient
funds - $20.00
Normal office hours are defined as 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday except for
Legal Holidays recognized by the Idaho State Government Offices
Normal due date for all bills shall be fifteen (15) days after the billing date.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 8
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 8
Commercial Fire Protection Service for Gem State Water (Legacy Bar Circle “S”
Water, Inc.) Customers:
Applicable for commercial customers with private fire protection upon the customer’s
premises.
For each fire hydrant $17.37 Per Month
For each separate building sprinkler connection $88.02 Per Month
Billing for each service will be charged in advance of the beginning of each month.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 9
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
Schedule No. 9
Irrigation Service for Gem State Water Company (Legacy Diamond Bar Estates,
L.L.C.) Customers:
METERED CUSTOMERS
Minimum Customer Charge
Meter Size Monthly Min Charge Volume Included - Gallons
1-Inch $35.00 7,500
1 ½-Inch $70.00 20,000
2-Inch $112.00 32,000
Commodity Charge (gallons): $2.26
The Commodity Charge for each addition 1,000 gallons over the Min Volume Included (7,500
gallons for 1-Inch Meter)
Contract Conditions:
Meter readings will be done at the end of each month, except when conditions make meters
inaccessible. In the event the Company cannot read a customer’s meter for a billing period, the
customer will only be billed the minimum monthly charge as set forth above. The Company
aggregates the monthly allowance (e.g., 7,500 gallons for 1-Inch Meter) for each month that no
meter reading is taken and bills for all usage exceeding the total aggregate allowances on the
next bill issued after the meter reading is taken.
Example: If the customer has used more than the monthly allowance (7,500 gallons) over a six
(6) month winter period when no meter can be read, he or she will be billed for usage
exceeding the aggregate monthly allowance (45,000 gallons) on the first bill issued after a
meter reading is taken.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 10
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 11
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 12
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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 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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 13
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
g. 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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 14
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 15
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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 discriminations 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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 16
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 17
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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:
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 18
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
a. whenever it is necessary to change the location of any service
connection due to relocation or abandonment of the Company's
mains; and,
b. 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 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
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 19
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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 attached to
these Rules and Regulations as an Appendix.
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 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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 20
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 21
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
14. Special Provisions or Amendments
14.1 It shall be the responsibility 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.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 22
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
UNIFORM MAIN EXTENSION RULE FOR WATER UTILITIES
Based on Order No. 7830 (Case No. U-1500-22)
A. GENERAL PROVISIONS AND DEFINITIONS
1. Applicability
a. All extensions of distribution mains from the utility's existing distribution system,
to serve new customers, except for those specifically excluded below shall be
made under the provisions of this Rule unless specific authority is first obtained
from the Commission to deviate therefrom. A main extension contract shall be
executed by the utility and the applicant or applicants for the main extension
before the utility commences construction work on said extension or, if
constructed by applicant or applicants, before the facilities comprising the main
extension are transferred to the utility.
b. Extensions solely for fire hydrant, private fire protection, resale, temporary,
standby, or supplemental service shall not be made under this Rule.
c. The utility may, but will not be required to, make extensions under this Rule in
easements or rights-of-way where final grades have not been established, or
where street grades have not been brought to those established by public
authority. If extensions are made when grades have not been established and
there is a reasonable probability that the existing grade will be changed, the
utility shall require that the applicant or applicants for the main extension
deposit, at the time of execution of the main extension agreement, the estimated
net cost of relocating, raising, or lowering facilities upon establishment of final
grades. Adjustment of any difference between the amount so deposited and the
actual cost of relocating, raising, lowering facilities shall be made within ten (10)
days after the utility has ascertained such actual cost. The net deposit
representing actual cost is not subject to refund. The entire deposit related to the
proposed relocation, raising or lowering shall be refunded when such
displacements are determined by proper authority to be not required.
2. Definitions
a. Bona Fide Customer, for the purposes of this Rule, shall be a customer
(excluding any customer formerly served at the same location) who has given
satisfactory evidence that service will be reasonably permanent to the property
which has been improved with a building of permanent nature and to which
service has commenced. The provision of service to a real estate developer or
builder during the construction or development period shall not establish him as a
bona fide customer.
b. Real Estate Developer or Builder, for purposes of this Rule, shall include any
individual, association of individuals, partnership, or corporation that divides a
parcel of land into two (2) or more portions.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 23
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
c. Adjusted Construction Cost, for the purposes of this Rule, shall be reasonable and
shall not exceed the costs recorded in conformity with generally accepted water
utility accounting and sound engineering practices, and as specifically defined in
the, Uniform System of Accounts for Water Utilities prescribed by the
Commission, of installing facilities, of adequate capacity for the service
requested. If the utility at its option should install facilities with' a larger capacity
or resulting in a greater footage of extension than required for the service, the
adjusted construction cost for the purposes of this Rule shall be determined by
the application of an adjustment factor to actual construction cost of facilities
installed. This factor shall be the ratio of estimated cost of required facilities to
estimated cost of actual facilities installed.
d. Commission shall mean the Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
3. Ownership, Design and Construction of Facilities
a. Any facilities installed hereunder shall be the sole property of the utility. In those
instances in which title to certain portions of the installation, such as fire
hydrants, will be held by a political subdivision, such facilities shall not be
included as a part of the main extension under this Rule.
b. The size, type, quality of materials and their location shall be specified by the
utility and the actual construction shall be done by the utility or by a constructing
agency acceptable to it.
c. Where the property of an applicant is located adjacent to a right-of-way,
exceeding 70 feet in width, for a street, highway or other public purpose,
regardless of the width of the traveled way or pavement; or a freeway, waterway
or railroad right-of-way, the utility may elect to install a main extension on the
same side thereof as the property of the applicant and the estimated and
adjusted construction costs in such case shall be based upon such an extension.
d. When an extension must comply with an ordinance, regulation, or specification of
public authority, the estimated and adjusted construction costs of said extension
shall be based upon the facilities required comply therewith.
4. Estimates, Plans and Specifications
a. Upon request by a potential applicant for a main extension, the utility shall
prepare without charge a preliminary sketch and rough estimates of the cost of
installation to be advanced by said applicant.
b. Any applicant for a main extension requesting the utility to prepare detailed
plans, specifications and cost estimates shall be required to deposit with the
utility an amount equal to the estimated cost of preparation of such material. The
utility shall, upon request, make available within 45 days after receipt of the
deposit referred to above, such plans, specifications and cost estimates of the
proposed main extension. If the extension is to include oversizing of facilities to
be done at the utility’s expense appropriate details shall be set forth in the plans,
specifications and cost estimates.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 24
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
c. In the event a main extension contract with the utility is executed within 180'
days after the utility furnishes the detailed plans and specifications, the deposit
shall become a part of the advance, and shall be refunded in accordance with the
terms of the main extension contract. If such contract is not so executed the
deposit to cover the cost of preparing plans, specifications and cost estimates
shall be forfeited by the applicant for the main extension and the amount of the
forfeited deposit shall be credited to the account or accounts to which the
expense of preparing said material was charged.
d. When detailed plans, specifications and cost estimates are requested the
applicant for a main extension shall furnish a map to a suitable scale showing the
street and lot layouts, and when requested by the utility, contours or other
indication of the relative elevation of the various parts of the area to be
developed. If changes are made subsequent to the presentation of this map by
the applicant, and these changes require additional expense in revising plans,
specifications and cost estimates this additional expense shall be borne by the
applicant, not subject to refund, and the additional expense thus recovered shall
be credited to the account or accounts to which the additional expense was
charged.
5. Timing and Adjustment of Advances
a. Unless the applicant for the main extension elects to arrange for the installation
of the extension himself as permitted by Section C.1.c., the full amount of the
required advance or an acceptable surety bond must be provided to the utility at
the time of execution of the main extension agreement.
b. If the applicant for a main extension posts a surety bond in lieu of cash, such
surety bond must be replaced with cash not less than ten (10) calendar days
before construction is to commence; provided, however, that if special facilities
are required primarily for the service requested, the applicant for the extension
may be required to deposit sufficient cash to cover the cost of such special
facilities before they are ordered by the utility.
c. An applicant for a main extension who advances funds shall be provided with a,
statement of actual construction cost and adjusted construction cost showing in
reasonable detail the cost incurred for material, labor, any other direct and
indirect costs , overheads, and total costs; or unit costs or contract costs;
whichever are appropriate.
d. Said statement shall be submitted within sixty (60) days after the actual
construction costs of the installation have been ascertained by the utility. In the
event that the actual construction costs for the entire installation shall not have
been determined within 120 days after completion of construction work, a
preliminary determination of actual and adjusted construction costs shall be
submitted, based upon the best available information at that time.
e. Any differences between the adjusted construction costs and the amount
advanced shall be shown as a revision of the amount of advance and shall be
payable within thirty (30) days of submission of the statement.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 25
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
6. Assignment of Main Extension Contracts - Any contract entered into under Sections B
and C of this Rule, or under similar provisions of former rules, may be assigned after
settlement of adjusted construction costs, after written notice to the utility by the
holder of said contract as shown by the utility’s records. Such assignment shall apply
only to those refunds which become due more than thirty (30) days after the date of
receipt by the utility of the notice of assignment. The utility shall not be required to
make any one refund payment under such contract to more than a single assignee.
7. Interpretations and Deviations - In case of disagreement or dispute regarding the
application of any provision of this Rule, or in circumstances where the application of
this Rule appears unreasonable to either party, the utility, applicant or applicants
may refer the matter to the Commission for determination.
B. EXTENSIONS TO SERVE INDIVIDUALS
1. Free-Footage Allowance - The utility shall extend its water distribution mains to serve
new bona fide customers at its own expense, other than to serve subdivisions, tracts
, housing projects , industrial developments or organized commercial districts, when
the required total length of main extension from the nearest existing utility facility is
not in excess of fifty (50) feet per service connection.
2. Advances - If the total length of main extension is in excess of fifty (50) feet per
service connection applied for, the applicant or applicants for such service shall be
required to advance to the utility, before construction is commenced, that portion of
the estimated reasonable cost of such extension which exceeds the estimated
reasonable cost of 50 feet of the main extension per service connection, exclusive of
the cost of service pipes, meter boxes and meters. Such estimated reasonable cost
shall be based upon the cost of a main not in excess of six (6) inches in diameter
except where a larger main is required by the special needs of the applicant or
applicants. The amount of the advance is subject to adjustment in accordance with
the provisions of Section A.5.e. of this Rule.
3. Refunds - The money so advanced shall be refunded by the utility, in cash without
interest, in payments equal to the adjusted construction cost of fifty (50) feet of the
main extension for which advance was made, for each additional service connection
made to said main extension exclusive of that of any customer formerly served in a
reasonable manner at the same location. At the request of the applicant, refunds
shall be made within 180 days after the date of first service to a bona fide customer.
If no request is received from applicant the utility shall, initiate refunds on an annual
basis. No refunds shall be made, after a period of ten (10) years from the date of
completion of the main extension and, the total refund shall not exceed the amount
advanced.
4. Exceptions - Where a group of five (5) or more individual applicants requests service
from the same extension, or in unusual cases after obtaining Commission
authorization, the utility, at its option, may require that the individual or individuals
advance the entire cost of the main extension as herein provided and the utility shall
refund this advance as provided in Section C.2. of this Rule.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 26
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
C. EXTENSIONS TO SERVE SUBDIVISIONS, TRACTS, HOUSING PROJECTS
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS OR ORGANIZED COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
1. Advances –
a. Unless the procedure outlined in Section C.1.c. is followed, an applicant for a
main extension to serve a new subdivision, tract, housing project or industrial
development or organized commercial district shall be required to advance to the
utility, before construction is commenced, the estimated reasonable cost of the
extension to be actually installed, from the nearest utility facility at least equal in
size or capacity to the main required to serve both the new customers and a
reasonable estimate of the potential customers who might be served directly
from the main extension without additional extension. The costs of the extension
shall include necessary service stubs, or service pipes, fittings, gates and housing
therefore, and meter boxes, but shall not include meters. To this shall be added
the cost of fire hydrants when requested by the applicant for the main extension
or required by public authority, whenever such hydrants are to become the
property of the utility.
b. If, for any purpose, special facilities are required primarily for the service
requested, the cost of such special facilities may be included in the advance,
subject to refund, as hereinafter provided, along with refunds of the advance of
the cost of the extension facilities described in Section C.1.a. above.
c. In lieu of providing the advances in accordance with Sections C.1.a. and C.1.b.,
the applicant for a main extension shall be permitted, if qualified in the judgment
of the utility, to construct and install the facilities himself, or arrange for their
installation pursuant to competitive bidding procedures initiated by him and
limited to qualified bidders. The cost, including the cost of inspection and
supervision by the utility, shall be paid directly by applicant. The applicant shall
provide the utility with a statement of actual construction cost in reasonable
detail. The amount to be treated as an advance subject to refund shall be the
lesser of (1) the actual cost, or (2) the price quoted in the utility detailed cost
estimate. The installation shall be in accordance with the plans and specifications
submitted by the utility pursuant to Section A.4.b.
2. Refunds
a. The amount advanced under Sections C.1.a., C.1.b.; i and C.1.c. shall be subject
to refund by the utility in cash, without interest, to the party or parties entitled
thereto as set forth, in the following two paragraphs. The total amount so
refunded shall not exceed the total of the amount advanced. Except as
hereinafter provided, the refunds shall be made in annual, semiannual or
quarterly payments at the election of the utility, and for a period not to exceed
twenty (20) years after the date of the contract.
b. Whenever costs of main extensions have been advanced pursuant to Sections
C.1.a. or C.1.c., the utility shall determine the revenue received from customers
other than residential, including fire protection agencies, supplied by service
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 27
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
c. pipes connected directly to the extension for which the cost was advanced. The
refund shall be 22 percent of the revenue so received. For residential customers
connected directly to the extension for which the cost was advanced, the utility
shall refund 22 percent of the average revenue per residential customer of the
entire system for the immediately preceding 12-month period. (See Section
C.2.d. and B.3.)
d. Whenever costs of special facilities have been advanced pursuant to Sections
C.1.b. or C.1.c., the amount so advanced shall be divided by the number of lots
to be served by the special facilities. This advance per lot shall be refunded for
each lot on which one or more bona fide customers are served by those facilities.
e. With respect to a contract entered into on and after the effective date of this
Rule, if, at any time during the 20-year refund period specified above 80 percent
of the bona fide customers for which the extension or special facilities were
designed are being served therefrom, the utility shall immediately notify the
contract holder of that fact, and at that time shall become obligated to pay, in
cash, any balance which may remain unrefunded at the end of said 20-year
period. Such balance shall be refunded in five (5) equal annual installments,
payable beginning 21 years after the date of the contract.
f. Where a contract has been entered into under a former main extension rule, and
where 80 percent of the bona fide customers for which the extension or special
facilities were designed are being served therefrom, the utility may negotiate and
enter into a new and substitute contract, identical in all respects, with the original
contract, including the original termination date, except that said substitute
contract shall include the following provisions: "Notwithstanding any other
provisions hereof, any unrefunded balance remaining at the termination date of
this contract shall be paid in five (5) equal annual , installments beginning one
(1) year after, said termination date.”
3. Termination of Main Extension Contracts
a. Any contract entered into under Section C of this Rule, or under similar provisions
of former rules may be purchased by the utility and terminated, after first
obtaining the authorization of the Commission, at any time after the number of
bona fide customers then receiving service from the extension for which the
advance was made equals at least 60 percent of the total number of bona fide
customers for which such extension was designed by the utility and the terms are
otherwise mutually agreed to by the parties or their assignees and that, Section
C.3.b. and Section C.3.c. hereof are complied with.
b. The utility, in requesting authorization for such termination shall furnish to the
Commission the following information in writing by an advice letter in the event
the termination is to be accomplished by payment in cash, or by a formal
application:
(1) A copy of the main extension contract, together with data adequately
describing the development for which the advance was made and the total
adjusted construction cost of the extension.
Gem State Water Company
Sheet No. 28
Replaces All Previous Sheets
Issued April 6, 2023 Issued by Gem State Water Company
Effective March 1, 2023 Leslie Abrams, General Manager
(2) The balance unpaid on the contract, as above defined, as of the date of
termination and terms under which the obligation is requested to be
terminated.
(3) The name of the holder of the contract when terminated.
(4) The total number of bona fide customers for which the extension was
designed and the number of bona fide customers actually receiving service
on said extension as of the proposed date of contract.
c. Discounts obtained by the utility for contracts terminated under the provisions of
this Section shall be accounted for by credits to Account 265 - Contributions in
Aid of Construction.