Denver Water, the state’s oldest and largest water provider, is preparing for drought and tightening its financial belt as the winter snowpack in its collection area remains mired at record-low levels.
The utility, which relies on rates paid by customers for the water they use for much of its annual budget, has slowed hiring, slashed its paid summer internship program, and is deferring or delaying equipment purchases, maintenance projects and contracted services.
“All of us are hoping to see more snow in the mountains in the weeks and months ahead, and while we hope, we also are making strategic decisions to prepare us — and our customers — for the possibility that these record-dry conditions in the mountains will continue in the months ahead and possibly into next winter,” said Angela Bricmont, Denver Water’s chief financial officer.
Denver Water does not receive tax dollars or operate for profit. Revenue from customer water bills is reinvested in maintaining and improving the water system. Because customers already use water efficiently, additional drought-related conservation would reduce water use and, in turn, lower water rate revenue that can be invested back into the system…