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Posts for FCS GROUP

Is Your Utility Rate Study Talking to Your Asset Management Strategy?

Is Your Utility Rate Study Talking to Your Asset Management Strategy?

August 13, 2018  by  FCS GROUP
Category:  Guest Author ,  Asset Management

Using asset management to inform your utility financial plan and rate strategy improves the accuracy of forecasts and facilitates better investment in infrastructure. This blog post offers an overview of the ways an agency can start aligning asset management and rate studies. 

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Sewer Rate Structure Alternatives for Utilities

Sewer Rate Structure Alternatives for Utilities

October 11, 2017  by  FCS GROUP
Category:  Guest Author ,  Utilities - Billing and Collection

What options are there for utilities in determining how to structure sewer usage rates, depending on the customer type? A volume-based rate option for all consumers is one, but an agency must consider which approach to take and it must make sure that such an approach aligns with organizational policy objectives. 

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Are You Calculating Your City Utility Tax Correctly?

Are You Calculating Your City Utility Tax Correctly?

July 10, 2015  by  FCS GROUP
Category:  Guest Author ,  Revenues

While reviewing city utility finances, we often notice a discrepancy between the city code and how the utility tax is calculated. As a result, many cities collect less money from their utility taxes than is allowed under their city code.

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When Do You Need to Contract With a Registered Municipal Advisor?

January 6, 2015  by  FCS GROUP
Category:  Finance ,  Guest Author

Even as the economy improves and growth within our communities has sponsored the ability to spend again, echoes of the past recession linger with several Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act initiated changes taking effect. This time it is about a recently created government-contractor role termed, “Municipal Advisor” and applies to various financial consultants who previously have provided services to the public sector in an unregulated environment.

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Water Utilities and Fire Hydrants: Legislative Update

April 30, 2013  by  FCS GROUP
Category:  Guest Author ,  Fire Protection ,  Water Utilities

The State Legislature has passed legislation (SHB 1512; SSB 5605,) that focuses on "solving" the problem created by the Lane v. City of Seattle decision. This act provides specific guidance and options for water utilities on how to legally recover fire protection costs...

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Have You Reviewed Your Excise Tax Worksheets Lately?

July 31, 2012  by  FCS GROUP
Category:  Guest Author ,  Revenues

Is your utility taking full advantage of the deductions and exemptions specified in state law? Given that the tax rules applicable to utilities in the State of Washington are complex and can change over time, it is relatively easy to overpay or underpay taxes.

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