Changes to Operations Effective December 1, 2024

Dear Members,

We want to provide transparency regarding decisions made during the recent special meeting of the Board of Directors, particularly those related to operational changes and increased costs. These decisions were made with the goal of improving service reliability and addressing long-standing challenges within our water system.

Background and Decisions Made

As stated in the meeting agenda, the Board voted to hire a new Water Operating Company as well as discuss the possibility of posting a job for a meter reader. After consulting with experts in Water Operations and careful consideration, the Board decided not to post the job but instead to hire Derek Goyne as a Field Operator. His focus will be on improving meter reading accuracy, addressing individual meter issues, and supporting the broader operational needs of our water system.

Additionally, G&S Construction, an experienced operator group consisting of 5 employees and numerous licenses, was retained as our lead operator to address immediate system deficiencies and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Together, these decisions reflect our commitment to both short and long-term stability.

Why These Changes Were Necessary

Meter Reading Challenges:
Meter reading is a critical part of our operations as it directly impacts our revenue and ensures accurate billing. Historically, this process has faced issues such as:

• Inaccurate Readings: Frequent errors have led to billing discrepancies and under-reported usage.
• Missed Maintenance Opportunities: Issues like leaks or damaged meters often went unreported or were not repaired.
• Inconsistent Commitment: Past practices delayed readings and required additional oversight.

Derek’s Role and Expertise:
Derek is a licensed operator with experience in meter reading and system maintenance. His role includes:

• Accurate meter reading to reduce errors and time spent on re-reads
• On-the-spot maintenance, such as repairing leaks and replacing gaskets.
• Proactively identifying and addressing system issues during his rounds.

This represents an increase over the previous meter reading cost of $400 per month. However, Derek’s expanded responsibilities and commitment to the system will reduce reliance on higher-cost repairs from G&S, ultimately benefiting the system financially.

Benefits to the System and Members

1. System Stability:
   G&S Construction provides expert oversight, while Derek’s involvement ensures operational support and continuity for the future. This dual approach strengthens our system while planning for a transition if applicable in the future to ensure our financial stability.
2. Field Reporting:
   Derek was able to complete the Lead and Service Line Inventory for his current WSC and will assist Board Member Steve Werner to accurately record all service line materials. This reporting will assist with future data collection that will be required by the EPA as well as TCEQ.
3. Improved Service and Accountability:
   Derek’s proactive approach will address long-standing issues with meter inaccuracies and delays. For example:
• His ability to handle on-site repairs (e.g., gasket replacements) during readings prevents escalated costs from deferred maintenance.
• Meter-related services like locks/unlocks and replacements are offered at competitive rates compared to G&S.
4. Succession Planning:
   Derek has expressed a long-term commitment to our system. This allows us to assess his performance as a potential future lead operator, ensuring continuity and reducing the risk of operator shortages while also being financially responsible for your contributions.

Addressing Concerns

We understand concerns about the increase in costs, however this investment addresses both operational inefficiencies and futureproofing our system.

DWSC continues to face numerous challenges, and we believe that bringing in some of the most experienced operators in our region will help accelerate progress in improving the system. By allowing G&S to concentrate on addressing larger-scale deficiencies while having an operator in the field to manage smaller issues, we can work more efficiently and significantly enhance the pace of system improvements.

Moving Forward

Both G&S Construction and Derek have already begun contributing to the stability and improvement of our system. G&S has offered valuable guidance and support in meeting regulatory requirements, while Derek’s commitment to hands-on, proactive service marks a positive step toward addressing long-standing challenges.

What This Means for Members

To ensure continued quality service, we’ve updated the process for reporting issues or emergencies:

• For non-immediate needs, please continue to contact Debbie at (903) 766-3973, use the contact form on our website, or email us at [email protected].
• For accounting questions please contact Debbie or our Morgan Irvin who leads our Accounting Division @ [email protected]
• Beginning December 1st, for any water emergencies, please contact:
• Galen Coleman: (903) 503-8266
• Chris Coleman: (903) 315-6812

We kindly ask that you reserve calls to Galen or Chris for emergencies only. By routing non-emergency requests through Debbie or our official channels, we can ensure your issue is properly documented and resolved in a timely manner.

We are confident that these decisions will result in greater operational efficiency, improved service quality and stability for our members. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.

Thank you for your continued support as we work to enhance and sustain our water system.

Sincerely,
Sara Edwards
Board President