Texas Water Utilities
JOURNAL
VOLUME 23
JANUARY 2013
"Proudly serving educational excellence since 1918"
NUMBER 1
2013 TWUA REGIONAL SCHOOL SCHEDULE 2013 TWUA REGIONAL SCHOOL SCHEDULE: DATE
EVENT
PRIMARY CONTACT
EXHIBITS CONTACT
Feb 24-27
TWUA Annual School
David Moore (512) 459-3124
Norma Clark, (432)528-1608
Feb. 5-7
Far West Texas Regional School Pecos County Civic Center Ft. Stockton, Texas
Norma Clark (432) 528-1608
Tom Ezell, (432) 553-1196
April 2-4
Panhandle Regional School Amarillo Civic Center Amarillo, Texas
Jessie Flores (806)378-3019
Ruben Arias (806)378-3019
April 22-25
Southeast Regional School Holiday Inn Centre Beaumont, Texas
Pat Gray (713)637-8835
Rob Starr, (409) 755-1559
May 7-9
Central West Texas Regional School Abilene Civic Center Abilene, Texas
Shorty Radde (325)650-1834
Mickey Chaney (325) 548-2237
May 13-17
North Central Texas Regional School Univ. of Texas Arlington Arlington, Texas
Donna Starling (972)721-2431
Selena Jackson (972)237-8377
June 10-13
Central Texas Regional School Killeen Civic Center Killeen, Texas
Teresa Bryant (254)750-8007
Damon Boniface, (254) 986-2949
July8-10
Southwest Texas Regional School McAllen Conference Center McAllen, Texas
Javier Santiago (956)681-1700
Lynn Short, (361)485-3381
August 6-8
Permian Basin Regional School MCM Grande Hotel Odessa, Texas
Norma Clark (432)528-1608
Norma Clark, (432) 528-1608
August 27-30
East Texas Regional School Harvey Hall & R.T.D.C. Tyler, Texas
Mike Norris (903)939-8278
Mike Norris (903)939-8278
Nov. 5-7
West Texas Regional School Lubbock Civic Center Lubbock, Texas
Curtis McDole (806)775-2610
Neil Weems (806)775-2880
Please contact the person listed above for additional information about your regional school or call TWUA Central Office at (888)367-8982. Please visit our website at www.twua.org to register for one of these schools. Thank you for your support.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL, 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 112 W., Austin, TX 78723-1093. TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL is not responsible for facts and/or opinions expressed by contributors or in advertisements herein. Editorials and comments do not necessarily represent the official policy of the Texas Water Utilities Association. All inquiries should be directed to: Texas Water Utilities Association, 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 112 W, Austin, TX 78723-1093, phone 512/459-3124. Any material accepted for publication is subject to revision and editing at the discretion of the publisher. All advertising in the TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL is subject to approval of the publisher. Learn more about T.W.U.A. at our Web site: www.twua.org
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL (ISSN 1051-709X) is published monthly by the Texas Water Utilities Association, located at 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 112 West, Austin, Texas 78723-1093, for engineers, operators, managers, laboratory technicians, customer service personnel, and other professionals employed in, or interested in, the water and/or wastewater industry. Five dollars of each annual membership dues payment to the Texas Water Utilities Association pays for a subscription. Non-Member subscription price: USA $50 per year; $4.20 per single copy; $60 per year outside USA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, TX. The Texas Water Utilities Association is wholly independent, and is not affiliated with the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Federation, or any other National organization.
In This Issue
ARTICLES S TRAINING LISTINGS S EMPLOYMENT
ARTICLES: President's Perspective..................................................................6 by, Norma Clark, TWUA President TWUA Executive Director News:.....................................................8 by, Russell Hamilton, ED In the News: How Does the Current Drought Stack?........................................10 by,Bob Henson, Atmos News Safety News: Management in Water Utilities.....................................................12 by, Howard Hart, Safety Officer, City of Bryan Customer Service News: Top Ten Customer Service Strategies for the New Year..............20 by,Shep Hyken, Speaker TWDB New: Panhandle Success Story.............................................................23 by, Texas Water Development Board
ADVERTISERS: Classified Ads.....................................................................................30 Ana-Lab............................................................................................15 Chlor-Serv, Inc...................................................................................23 Hartwell Environmental Corporation.....................................................26 Jim Cox Sales.......................................................................................3 Layne-Texas.........................................................................................6 Moody Bros., Inc................................................................................15 Professional Cards..............................................................................24 Samco Leak Detection........................................................................23 Smith Pump Company, Inc.........................................Inside Back Cover Magna Flow ........................................................................Back Cover
TRAINING: .TWUA
Training Schedule................................................................................14 .TWUA 95th Annual School Information.............................................................16 TWUA 10TH Annual Far West Regional School.....................................................7 North Central Texas Regional School Information.............................................24 TEEX Training Schedule..................................................................................27 WEAT Reuse Conference................................................................................22
14 4 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
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23 January 2013
Texas Water Utilities Association 4th Annual District Officer Seminar JANUARY 8, 2013
DISTRICT OFFICER TRAINING One of the trends that appear to be spreading across the association is the lack of participation or willingness of members to become officers and contribute to the continued success of the monthly training events. Central Office would like to provide the resource of Officer Training in an attempt to stimulate more participation from membership. In an effort to assure that the Districts of TWUA are fulfilling all
the training requirements and functioning to the highest degree of efficiency and compliancy Central Office has organized the 4th Annual District Officer Training Event. This training event is intended to provide support for the District Officers and improve the efficiency of the monthly District Meetings.
Educate and train is what we do!
GOALS It is our goal during this one day seminar that everyone understand the system we have in place.
It is to your advantage and it does simplify your duties as a district officer. This system has a lot of capabilities, and we would like to share them with you all during this one day training. It will be worth your time.
Working to build a stronger association!
We have come a long way and we still have a great deal of ground to cover over the next couple of years with the rapid change in technology. With your help we can achieve these milestones and remain one of the best training providers in the state of Texas.
In five years TWUA will be celebrating our 100th Year Anniversary.
TRAINING AGENDA
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
10:00 am 11:00 am
We encourage everyone on a district level such as, program coordinators, secretaries and treasures, district president ect. This will allow everyone on your board the opportunity to understand the responsible that is expected from Central Office. Please vist TWUA website to register for this event. www.twua.org
12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm January 2013
Welcome/President Clark Hour submittal & program reports Discuss operator numbers instead social security numbers. w Database Access Demonstration w Database for monthly rosters w Discuss what access & abilities secretaries have. Lunch provided TCEQ Presentation Q & A Wrap Up and question & Answers
HOLIDAY INN MIDTOWN 6000 Middle Fiskville Road Austin, Texas 78752 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
TWUA PRESIDENT: Norma Clark, Permian Basin Regional Officer
HAPPY NEW YEAR! New Year’s is one of the most celebrated holidays and a time when thoughts turn to plans and goals for the year. The history of making New Year’s resolutions dates back to ancient Rome when the Romans began each year by making promises to the god Janus, for whom the month of January is named. It is estimated that 50% of adults in North America will make a New Year’s resolution. Some of the most popular resolutions include: •
Improving well–being – losing weight, exercising more, eating better, drinking less alcohol, quitting smoking.
So how can we be successful in realizing our hopes and dreams? The following tips will help in achieving goals: •
Improve your mood. Many people think that success
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Limit the number of goals. Having a list of too many goals can be overwhelming. Choose your goals based on their importance.
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Make your goals realistic and achievable. Start small and build on success.
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Envision success. Create a mental picture of yourself when the goal is achieved.
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Don’t give up. There will be missteps along the way but don’t use this as an excuse to give up. Get up and get back on track!
makes one happy, when in fact, happiness makes one more successful. Goals can be realized when positive emotions outweigh negative emotions.
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Improving finances, saving more money, getting out of debt.
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Improving career advancing or getting a better job.
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Advancing education learning something new.
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Self improvement – becoming more organized, reducing stress, managing time better.
Create interim milestones and reward yourself when you meet them.
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Volunteering to help others.
Enlist helps. Share your goals. The encouragement you get from friends and family can be powerful.
Unfortunately, most people fail to keep their resolutions, with approximately 22% failing after one week, 40% after one month, 50% after three months, and 60% after six months. From looking at these statistics, it t seem that it is useless to make resolutions.
6 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
“Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.” –Thomas Jefferson S
January 2013
TH
10
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION ANNUAL FAR WEST TEXAS REGIONAL SCHOOL
FEBRUARY 5-7, 2013 PECOS COUNTY CIVIC CENTER, 1574 AIRPORT DR., FORT STOCKTON, TX ACADEMIC OFFERINGS WATER Basic Water Groundwater Production
WASTEWATER Basic Wastewater Wastewater Treatment
Pre-Registration Until January 25, 2013
WATER/WASTEWATER Water Utilities Management Water Utilities Safety Special Topics (pending TCEQ approval)
REGISTRATION FEES
TWUA Member
Internet Pre-Registration (credit card only – www.twua.org) Mail Pre-Registration (check or money order) On-Site Registration (no credit cards accepted)
Non-Member
$205 $200 $210
$260 $255 $265
On-Site Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 5, 2013. Course Schedule: Tuesday & Wednesday – 8 am to 5 pm; Thursday – 8 am to 12 noon Registration fees include course materials and refreshments. Lunch will not be provided.
HOTEL INFORMATION
The following hotels have offered a special rate to participants of the school. Be sure to mention the Far West Texas Water School when making reservations. MAKE YOUR HOTEL RESERVATIONS EARLY!! Hampton Inn - $125/single; $135/double, (432) 336-9600, 2271 W. IH 10 Quality Inn - $74/single; $79/double, (432) 336-5955, 1308 N. Hwy 285
GOLF TOURNAMENT
A Golf Tournament will be held at 12:00 noon on Monday, February 4 at the Desert Pines Golf Course. Cost is $60 per person which includes green fee, cart, and prizes. REGISTRATION FORM Name _________________________________________ Social Security or TCEQ License # ________________ Address ___________________________________________City __________________ State _____ Zip_______ Daytime Phone _______________________
Representing _________________________________________
Email Address _______________________________________ Course Selection ________________________________________ TWUA Member ____Yes ____No
Member of which TWUA District __________________________________
Bill my ( )Visa ( )Mastercard #_________________________________Exp. Date ________ Security Code ______ Cardholder Name (Printed)____________________________ Zip Code of Billing Address ___________________ Payment MUST accompany registration. No purchase orders accepted. No refunds will be made; however, substitutions are allowed. Credit card registrations may be made online at www.twua.org, mailed, or faxed to (432) 332-1965. Mail registration and payment to Permian Basin Regional School, P.O. Box 12604, Odessa, TX, 79768. If you have any questions, please call Norma Clark at (432) 528-1608. January 2013
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NEWS: Russell Hamilton, TWUA ED
Wow, another year has come and gone. I sincerely, hope 2013 finds everyone well, and you experienced an enjoyable holiday season. CENTRAL OFFICE NEWS: The staff at Central Office has been busy finalizing plans for the association’s 95th Annual School in Corpus Christi. I want to encourage you to go to the TWUA website and click on the watch video icon. Thanks to Leon, Wanda, Foster, Gus, and the various representatives of Corpus who help with this project. This video was prepared using the association’s equipment. We had to downgrade the quality because of file size, and bandwidth requirements. If you have any influence in where you or your staff attend training, we truly hope you will make plans to come join us in Corpus and support TWUA. ANNUAL SCHOOL: The association assumes a significant amount of financial obligations to coordinate Annual School, so for those planning to attend, we thank you for your support and if possible we hope you consider the Omni Hotel for your housing needs. There is a link on our website for the hotel along with phone numbers for additional assistant. If you have any issues, please do not hesitate to contact Central Office. Another item relating to the Omni - if you will go to the link on the TWUA website and sign up for the Omni rewards program you will receive free Wi-Fi, newspaper, and other incidentals. It is free to register, and there are no stipulations to the minimum number of stays in order to qualify for the basic rewards program. We see this as a very positive value and hope that you will take advantage. TWUA ANNUAL DISTRICT OFFICER TRAINING SEMINAR: Central Office will also be hosting the Annual District Officer Training January 8th here in Austin at the Holiday Inn – Midtown (right off 290 & 35). If you are a District Officer or you have thought about becoming more involved, please go to the training tab on the association’s website and click on the January 8th date for more information and to register.
I wanted to remind those in the Fort Stockton area and those needing renewal hours or hoping to advance a license, the Far West Texas Region will be hosting operator training beginning February 5th. If you need any additional information please go to the TWUA website and click on the training tab. Statistics show as of the first of November 2012 there had been 3,200 background checks for various operator license renewals. Out of the 3,200 there were 125 referred to committee for review. Out of the 125 there were 9 that were denied or revocation proceedings have been initiated. Not attempting to cause panic or down play the importance of this requirement. What I hoped to do is let you as operators know just because you have a questionable past does not mean that you will lose your operator license. Visit TCEQ webiste for additional information. Next month there will be a article addressing some of the concerns and hopefully answering some of you questions. The story goes like this, there was a young man who attended an Ivey League University and was taking premed classes. One of the classes was particularly difficult. First day of class the professor laid out what was expected and stated she would not settle for anything less than 100% effort. The professor stated that statistically 28 % of those who signed up for the class would drop before the last day of drop/add. There was always going to be reading, and homework. Students struggled all semester long and more than the statistical average took the easy way out and dropped the class. The semester finally came to an end, and the professor addressed the class and thanked those who stuck it out. The professor told her class they should expect a final exam that was equal to the semester. She further stated that she believed the student earned the grade received. The day of finals came, and the class assembled. The professor again thanked the class, and stated she was about to do something that she had never done. She said that she wanted to extend an offer. Anyone who wished could simply sign the attendance roster being passed around, and they would be guaranteed a “C” for the final, regardless if they attempted the final or not. Half the class took the professor up on his offer and immediately left.
FORT STOCKTON REGIONAL SCHOOL: 8 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
January 2013
The professor then began passing out the exam and asked everyone to leave the exam face down until all exams were distributed. The exam appeared to be about 20 pages or so. When given the permission to turn over the final, to the surprise of those who chose to challenge there was one true false question. Was this the most demanding class you have ever attempted? Congratulations you just earned an “A” on the course final. I think for me the moral behind this story is. Most shortcuts are options that one chooses when you know that choosing the “right” option(s) or doing what is expected will require more time, energy, thinking and hard work. The real cost of taking shortcut’s is the loss of opportunity to become better. Remember the old adage if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Most seem to forget or overlook that behind every successful person is a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication. I read that while growing up boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. never enjoyed the things other kids got to do or eat. His father was so strict that Floyd Jr. never drank a coke, ate chocolate, hamburger or pizza. He was on a very strict diet and ran and worked out almost every day sometimes late into the evening. His father was very hard on him and demanded perfection. As a result, Mayweather dominated Golden Glove competition, represented the United States in the Olympics and went on to be a very successful boxer in something like 5 different weight classes. Still today some believe that pound for pound he is one of the greatest boxers to get in the ring. Yes, he was probably a gifted and talented athlete, but he did not just step into a ring and dominate. He worked hard and sacrificed in order to rise to the top. Somewhere along the way, he picked up a mouth and attitude and I am not advocating that he is the perfect role model but, I am saying that typically hard work is rewarded. Remember – We do not need all the operators in Texas to be a member of TWUA – JUST YOU S
In Memory of William Don Melton Jr. April 27, 1944- November 27, 2012 William Don Melton, Jr., 58, of Bryan passed away Tuesday, November 27, 2012 in Bryan. William was born April 27, 1954 in Houston, the son of William Don and Joanne Carol (Davis) Melton. He was self-employed as a fire hydrant repairman and was a member of various water associations. He and his wife were married on February 3, 1984 in Gatesville, Texas. Mr. Melton was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife Sherry Melton; daughters Pamela and Laura Melton; a granddaughter, Kiley, grandson, Mason; brother, David Melton and his family of Sealy, sister Adrienne Melton of Austin and a brother Cash Melton of Austin.He will truly be missed by many in the water industry. January 2013
In Memory of Ronald Harold Bearden December 17, 1944- November 29,2012 Ronald Harold Bearden, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 29, 2012. Ron was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, on December 17, 1944, to Will Orr and Lorena Bearden. After an idyllic childhood in Dallas, Ron graduated from South Oak Cliff High School and went on to attain a B.S. degree in biology from Southwestern University in Georgetown in 1967. Then in 1969 he earned a M.S. degree in entomology from Louisiana State University. After his discharge from the U.S. Army in 1972, Ron began his professional career with the Texas Department of Health in the vector control division. Changing his focus to water, Ron held many positions within the Health Department before becoming the executive director of Texas Water Utilities Association in 1982. Ron retired from the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission in 2001 but remained active within the drinking water regulation community. Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Mary Bearden. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Grace Episcopal Church Columbarium Fund, 1314 East University Avenue, Georgetown, Texas 78626. He will truly be missed by many in the water industry.
In Memory of Sam Warrington November 17, 1921- December 11, 2012 Sam Warrington Sam L. Warrington, P. E., 91, of Austin, passed away December 11, 2012. One of nine children, he was born on November 17, 1921 in Blooming Grove, Texas. He attended and graduated from Corsicana High School. Upon completion of military service in the United States Navy during World War II, Sam entered the University of Texas at Austin and received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He was employed as a sanitary engineer for the Texas State Health Department and a life-long professional engineer. After retiring from the state, he worked for the City of Austin Water and Wastewater Department. It was important to Sam that all the water and sewage operators be certified so they could receive promotions to improve their livelihoods. In his spare time, he enjoyed refurbishing used cars, terracing his lot and traveling extensively. He also enjoyed being a 50-year member of St. John's United Methodist Church. Sam served as the president of the Water Pollution Control Federation, now known as the Water Environmental Association. He was a life member of the Texas Water Utilities Association, and also served as secretary of the V. M. Ehlers Memorial Fund that provides scholarships to college-bound students. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Virginia Warrington. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the V. M. Ehlers Scholarship Fund, 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 112 West, Austin, TX 78723, or St. Johns United Methodist Church, 2140 Allendale Road, Austin, TX 78756.He will truly be missed by many in the water industry.. TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
IN THE NEWS:
How Does the Current Drought Stack Up? Dust Bowl v. Drought of 2012 By, Bob Henson, Atmos News
Bob Henson • November 29, 2012 | The incessant, inescapable dust storms of the 1930s left deep imprints on the psyches of Great Plains residents as evidenced in the moving first-hand accounts in the Ken Burns documentary The Dust Bowl, which premiered this week on PBS. My mother grew up in western Oklahoma during the worst of the dusters. Sometimes I could see traces of their fury in the furrows of her brow, when she’d tell us about having had to walk to school clasping a wet handkerchief to her mouth.
A dust storm approaches Stratford, Texas, on April 18, 1935. This was only four days after what was perhaps the worst of the great Dust Bowl storms—the “Black Sunday” event, when an enormous wall of dust swept southward across the Great Plains in a matter of hours. (Wikimedia Commons photo, courtesy NOAA/George E. Marsh Album.) If the United States were to experience a 1930s-style drought today, could it give us a second Dust Bowl? Some of the driest and hottest conditions on record have plagued parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Georgia, and other states over the last two years. A number of factors—both meteorological and societal— would need to conspire for the current event to resemble the all-out disaster of the Dust Bowl. Yet a devastating outcome could emerge with a flavor all its own. Location. Poised between the moist East and the parched West, the Great Plains can lurch from wet to dry conditions in erratic, hard-to-predict ways. The worst of the 1930s drought involved the High Plains, the semiarid belt stretching roughly from the Black Hills to the Rio Grande. Grains such as wheat can thrive here, but a dry period can devastate crops that aren’t irrigated. Right now, the region of most intense drought (see map) is uncomfortably similar to that of the 1930s, focused on western Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, plus parts of eastern Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. 10 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
The general areas affected by dust storms in the 1930s (top image, courtesy Center for Air Pollution Impact & Trend Analysis) are roughly similar to those in the Great Plains most strongly affected by the current drought as shown in the U.S. Drought Monitor map released on November 15 (bottom image, courtesy National Drought Mitigation Center), Intensity and scope. As shown in last week’s U.S. Drought Monitor, some 58% of the land area in the contiguous 48 U.S. states was in some form of drought, and 18% was within the two most dire classifications (extreme and exceptional). These numbers are down slightly from September, when the drought-covered area was at 65%. Since the Drought Monitor didn’t exist in the 1930s, we need to use the venerable Palmer Drought Severity Index to make an apples-to-apples comparison. (The PDSI is among several factors that go into the Drought Monitor.) The highest PDSI-based extent on record occurred in 1934, when 80% of the contiguous United States was in some form of drought. Well back in second place—with PDSIbased drought coverage peaking at roughly 60%—are 1954 and 2012. Heat. “For similarities to the 1930s, heat is the big one,” says Mark Svoboda (National Drought Mitigation Center). Svoboda has watched droughts come and go for years; he’s been of the U.S. Drought Monitor team since the weekly product began in 1999. Svoboda notes that the Great Warm Wave of March 2012, which brought many states their toastiest early-spring weather ever observed, provided an unusually early kickoff to seasonal demand for water by fast-growing plants. Blazing temperatures across the Midwest in early summer only made things worse, pushing water stress to extreme levels as far northeast as Indiana. According to Svoboda, “The heat in June and July really exacerbated and accelerated the impacts this summer.”
January 2013
were pioneered and implemented through landgrant universities and such programs as the federal Soil Conservation Service and Cooperative Extension Service. (I found an interesting discussion of the CES, including the role segregation played in its operation, here.)
Countless lakes across the central United States have gone dry in the last few months, including this one (Teller Lake No. 5) in eastern Boulder County, Colorado. (©UCAR. Photo by Carlye Calvin. This image is freely available for media & nonprofit use.*) Duration. The current drought doesn’t yet hold a candle to the Dust Bowl in terms of longevity. After the 1920s, a decade of ample moisture and bountiful wheat crops, the Great Plains fell into drought in 1931 and didn’t see a major recovery until 1939. The 1950s brought another intense multiyear drought that touched much of the nation. Since then, most major U.S. droughts—including the infamous 1988 event (see PDF) that brought the Mississippi River to a virtual standstill—have only lasted a year or two. In fact, most of the last 20 years have been on the moist side across much of the central United States, with average precipitation rising in many locations for the period 1981–2010 compared to 1961–1990. (In Dallas–Fort Worth, for example, the annual values rose from 33.70” to 36.14”; in Wichita, Kansas, from 29.33” to 32.64”; and in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, from 23.86” to 26.38”.) The current drought first gripped the Sunbelt in 2011, with Texas smashing records for summer heat and dryness. Conditions eased there only slightly this year while drought rapidly expanded and intensified toward the north (see sidebar). “The Southeast and Southern Plains can now consider themselves in a multiyear drought,” says Svoboda. However, he adds, “The vast majority of the areas affected this year in the West, the central and northern Great Plains, and the Corn Belt are still in multi seasonal rather than multiyear drought.” NOAA’s latest seasonal drought outlook, issued on November 15, doesn’t bode well. It calls for “persistence” (continued drought) through the winter across the core area now affected. Back in March, Texas state climatologist John NielsonGammon highlighted the risk at hand, based in large part on multidecadal patterns in the North Atlantic and North Pacific. In a recent blog post on the situation, he warns: “The conditions that led me to say that the [Texas] drought could conceivably last for five to ten years have not changed.” Lessons learned America discovered a great deal about land management during the “Dirty Thirties.” Research-based improvements January 2013
Subsequent droughts—even the intensely dry 1950s— caused plenty of misery. But the Great Plains soil came through in better shape, thanks to improvements in plowing and planting techniques as well as innovations such as shelterbelts (rows of trees that serve as a shield against high winds). High Plains farmers also began irrigating their crops on a large scale, tapping into the vast Ogallala Aquifer that underlies the region. More recently, drought-resistant cultivars of many crops have come into widespread use. All this has helped make the current drought less devastating than it might have been 80 years ago. There have been dramatic omens in the form of Thirties-style dust storms as experienced in Lubbock, Texas, last fall and Oklahoma just last month. But there hasn’t (at least yet) been massive erosion of the sort experienced during the Dust Bowl. To be sure, agriculture took a huge hit this summer, particularly in the Midwest. The final tally of agricultural losses is likely to top the 1988 record of around $35–40 billion, according to Svoboda. Oddly enough, even though crop yields are down—corn production is projected to drop by 13% from last year—total U.S. farm income for 2012 is expected to hit a record high. That’s because crop prices have risen (due in part to increased demand for corn as biofuel) and because many farmers will be reimbursed for their losses by crop insurance. Farmland prices are also soaring, raising concerns about a possible bubble. Too many straws in the drink? Although the lessons of the Dust Bowl and the march of technology have helped boost agricultural yields across the central United States, water remains an Achilles’ heel. In the 1930s, Svoboda points out, “they had a major environmental emergency on their hands—and caused by their hands, given the disruption of the environment when they plowed under the prairie for wheat. Today, it is about more ‘straws in the drink,’ which is still a finite resource.” The fast-diminishing Ogallala Reservoir could be virtually depleted in parts of Texas and Kansas over the next several decades, according to recent studies. And with temperatures projected to rise both globally and regionally in the coming decades, soils and plants would be expected to dry out even more for a given rainfall deficit. (There’s an interesting debate unfolding about how best to assess future drought risk in a changing climate, which we’ll get to in a future post.) As Svoboda puts it, “I think we don’t need a Dust Bowl or a 1950s drought to have impacts that could end up being more costly.”S
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
SAFETY NEWS:
Management in Water Utilities By, Howard Hart,, Safety Officer, City of Bryan, Safety Committee Chair
I work in the Risk Management Department, and because of my background as an operator, I see many of the claims involving water and wastewater. Since citizens have the right to file a claim against a City anytime they feel they have been treated wrongly or have been damaged in some way, I hope this article will provide you with some tips on how to respond to a claim, and more importantly, how to manage, and reduce risk so that your citizens don’t walk away with your capital improvements budget in their pocket.
you must have done something wrong or were somehow negligent in your duties. Providing advice on what you would do in a similar situation, such as beginning the disinfection and drying process immediately, is beneficial and can be shared with the customer.
The Texas Tort Claims Act
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If you are using a jet machine and people, come running out of a house saying there is water flying everywhere – you may be liable. (You probably are liable, but why admit it.)
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If you show up to a neighborhood and the residents are saying that their house is already flooded, then you are probably not liable, unless however, this is a recurring problem that your management is ignoring – you may be liable.
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If you get a call and do not show up to the neighborhood for six hours – you may be liable, or at least not have a good reason to deny a claim.
•
If you have a certain way of doing things (for quality control) when you show up, and omit those steps on this job - you may be liable.
By definition, risks are chances, or the possibility of something going wrong that could result in injury, damage or other type of loss. Safety is usually about reducing the chances of risk and getting hurt, but it may also be about not giving away your money unnecessarily. Prior to 1969 all governmental entities in the State of Texas were immune from lawsuits for most activities. You could not sue the State! In 1969 however, the legislature passed the Texas Tort Claims Act (“The Act”) which said that it was an unreasonable expectation to have immunity from “everything”. According to The Act, the State now has limited legal protections which allow citizens, to be paid for damages under certain circumstances. Subdivisions of the State, like counties and municipalities, also fall into this limited legal protection category. Many other entities performing water and wastewater activities are considered “quasigovernmental” and have limited legal protection. Private enterprise has no legal protection other than that afforded to ordinary citizens, so they often go to extreme measures to avoid being taken to court. If you need clarification on where your organization falls; consult your attorney. A Municipality’s Perspective on The Act I have seen a lot of claims for water damage to homes or businesses. Wastewater backing up into a house is a good example. According to The Act, if you use a piece of motorized equipment, such as a jet machine or a truck, and commit a wrongful act or omission, or was negligent in your duties, then you could be held personally liable for damages. If you are responding to this call, it is important not to give the impression that you are authorizing or directing the cleanup. Have compassion for their situation, but avoid terms like, “I’m sorry” because that phrase indicates that 12 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
Is your City Liable? The following is a list of examples that could make your City liable under The Act:
Since it is impossible to control what the customer is dumping down the drain, like grease that cause backups, it is important for management to make a good faith effort to fund the repairs, engineering the work and coordinate with other utilities. This will provide a good defense, minimize liability and hopefully improve customer service. Investigating a Claim In investigating a claim, here are some key things to look for: 1. Did the crew arrive (and start working) in a timely manner? 2. Was the damage done before the crew arrived? 3. Did the crew do everything reasonable to keep the damage from continuing or getting worse? 4. Did the crew use hand tools or motorized equipment? 5. If motorized equipment was used, were they following departmental policies on operating the equipment i.e., January 2013
operating pressures, direction of travel, tracking hose distances, etc.? 6. If digging was involved, were locates requested, and did the crews wait for the locators before utilities were damaged? 7. Are there written records, i.e., work orders, field notes, line locates, etc.? 8. Was the work zone barricaded properly and was private property adequately protected? 9. Did the employees make any statements or promises that would lead the customer to believe it was our fault? 10. If the problem appears to be recurring, are there records to prove that the lines are being cleaned on a regular cycle?
$500,000 no matter how many people are involved. There is also a $100,000 cap on injury or damage to property. Conclusion If you want to minimize liability claims, remember to be consistent in your overall approach, follow standard operating procedures, practice good customer service, keep good records, and when problems arise, make a good faith effort to alleviate those issues. If you are asked to participate in the investigation of a claim, remember to gather accurate details, provide thorough documentation, take a lot of photos, and always check the facts. Sometimes things are not the way they first appear to be! References
11. Did follow up maintenance procedures, like chemical addition, or base material replacement occur within a reasonable amount of time?
(1) http://www.tml.org/legal-qna/2005February.pdf, What is the Texas Tort Claims Act?
12. If the problem appears to be dragging out, is management budgeting for repairs/replacement within a reasonable time?
(2) http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/CP/htm/ CP.101.htm , Civil Practices and Remedy Code, Title 5 Governmental Immunity, Chapter 101 Tort Claims.
Documentation, Consistency and Procedures Key’s to Minimizing Liability Since every job is a little different, the key is to show consistency in your general approach to minimize liability. If your policy is to go back the next day where you encountered a grease problem and add chemicals, document that activity and be consistent in that approach. Negligence or omissions are hard to disprove without documentation. If there was an overflow, document that too. Customers also should be provided the same level of quality service. Having a good set of standard procedures and the ability to prove that you are actually doing that through your documentation will go a long way in protecting you from claims. Taking photos is another excellent method to document property damage. The importance of having a quality set of procedures cannot be overstressed. It will be the thing that gets examined most closely should attorneys get involved.
Howard began his career in the water utility industry with a 7 year stint at the City of Smithville. He has been with the City of Bryan for 20 years with the last 10 as Safety Officer, first with Public Works and now over all City staff. Howard is a “Double-A” license holder, a TCEQ approved water/wastewater instructor, NSC defensive driving instructor and a Red Cross instructor. A late bloomer, Howard graduated from Texas A&M University in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Bioenvironmental Science and plans to continue his education by pursuing his safety certifications. If you would like an electronic copy of the City of Bryan Claim Notice or if you have questions about Risk Management contact Howard at hhart@bryantx.gov S
Our City charter requires that anybody filing a claim must sign the claim and have it notarized. This part is important because it tends to keep away the con artists. I am sure most readers can tell a story of how somebody thought they were going to become a millionaire due to an error on the City’s part. We do make errors. We are only human. Liability Limits Fortunately, The Act protects us by setting limitations on the claim process. Claims must be filed within two years of the alleged act. Your City charter may say less. Some people will wait as long as possible to see if they can build up their claim before they file. Sometimes they are hoping that people will forget all of the details and thus have no defense. There are also limitations on our financial liability. The Act sets a maximum of $250,000 for each person and $500,000 for each single occurrence for bodily injury or death. In other words, January 2013
Wastewater backing up in a house. What do you say, or not say, to this customer?
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
TWUA TRAIN To register for any TWUA classes – simply complete the registration form and fax to (512)459-7124 or contact TWUA @ 888-367-8982 for additional details. *NOTICE: Due To Recent Increases For Training Materials - Class Costs Have Increased. ***Pre-Registration Is Defined To Mean 14 Days Prior To Any Scheduled Event. All registrations received after the pre-registration cutoff date must pay on-site registration fee. We strongly encourage everyone to please pre-register by fax, e-mail, or calling on site registrations are welcome but not preferred. Date
Location
Course
Address
Hours
Credit
Jan 15-17 Mar 19-21 Mar 12-14 Jan 14-16 Aug 20-22 Jan 29-31 Feb 5-7 May 21-23
New Braunfels Victoria Huntsville Domino Victoria New Braunfels Carrollton New Braunfels
Basic Water Basic Water GW Prod W Lab W Lab Distribution Distribution Distribution
355 FM 306 2902 Bluff 488 SH75 N FM 3129 2902 Bluff 355 FM 306 4750 Josey Lane 355 FM 306
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
W W W W W W W W
Jan 8-10 Jan 8-10 Jan 28-30 Feb 12-14 Apr 16-18 July 22-24 Jan 7-9 Mar 25-27 Jul 23-25 Jan 15-17 Apr 9-11 May 20-22 May 21-23 Nov 4-6 Jan 22-24 Apr 2-4 Jun 11-13 Oct 21-23
Huntsville Carrollton Corpus New Braunfels Victoria Corpus Goliad Corpus Victoria San Marcos New Braunfels Corpus Victoria Corpus Victoria Huntsville Huntsville Corpus
Basic Wastewater Basic Wastewater Basic Wastewater Basic Wastewater Basic Wastewater Basic Wastewater WW Treatment WW Treatment WW Treatment WW Collection WW Collection WW Collection WW Collection WW Collection WW Lab WW Lab Act Sludge Act Sludge
448 SH75 N 4750 Josey Lane 2726 Holly 355 FM 306 2902 Bluff 2726 Holly 211 E Franklin 2726 Holly 2902 Bluff 170 Charles Austin Dr 355 FM 306 2726 Holly 2902 Bluff 2726 Holly 923 US Hwy 595 448 SH75 N 448 SH75 N 2726 Holly
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW WW
Sept 23-25 Mar 19-21 Jul 16-18 Aug 19-21 Sept 17-19 Jan 16-18 Mar 19-21 Apr 22-24 Jun 11-13 June 18-20 Mar 12-14 Oct 15-17 Nov 19-21 May 7-9
Corpus Carrollton Huntsville Corpus Victoria Domino Georgetown Corpus Carrollton Victoria New Braunfels Victoria Victoria Huntsville
Management Pump and Pumping Pump and Pumping Pump and Pumping Pump and Pumping Safety Safety Safety Safety Safety V&H V&H Calculations Chlorinator Maint
2726 Holly 4750 Josey Lane 448 SH75 N 2726 Holly 2902 Bluff FM 3129 300-1 Industrial 2726 Holly 4750 Josey Lane 2902 Bluff 355 FM 306 2902 Bluff 2902 Bluff 448 SH75 N
20 24 24 24 24 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW W/WW
Jan 7-11
TWUA
EIT (Instructor I)
1106 Clayton Lane
40
No operator hours
14 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
January 2013
NING SCHEDULE 20 HOUR CLASSES : (PRE-REGISTRATION) $200 MEMBER $250 NON-MEMBER (ON-SITE ) $250 MEMBER $300 NON-MEMBER 24 HOUR CLASSES: (PRE-REGISTRATION) $260 MEMBER $310 NON-MEMBER (ON-SITE) $310 MEMBER $360 NON-MEMBER You can registrar on-line at http://www.twua.org/training.php for your next training class.
OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING CUSTOMERS: Beginning March 1, 2011, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) will accept a credit card or electronic check transfer for payments for all new occupational license and registration applications. As a result, any person applying for a new Occupational License or registration will be able to pay their application fee online using the TCEQ’s ePay system. Note: All online renewals will continue to be processed through Texas.gov. The ePay system allows companies, cities, municipalities, and organizations to pay up to 20 employees at one time using this system. At the time of the exam a printed receipt will be required. The receipt is considered to be a copy of the email verifying your payment or a copy of the web page showing the Trace Number and Voucher Number(s). For additional information and instructions on how to use the ePay system, please visit http://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/exams/registration. If you have questions please contact the Occupational Licensing Section at 512-239-6133 or email us at licenses@tceq.texas.gov. Russell Gardner, Manager Occupational Licensing Section.
P. O. Box 9000 • Kilgore, Texas 75663-9000 903-984-0551 • Fax: 903-984-5914 www.ana-lab.com • email: corp@ana-lab.com Ana-Lab Corporation is an employee-owned organization which provides industry, government, consultants, and individuals with complete, timely, and accurate chemical analysis, including state approved total coliform testing. Amarillo 806-355-3556
Dallas 972-620-8900
Brownsville 956-831-6437
Austin 512-821-0045
Houston 281-333-9414
T104704201
January 2013
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
Texas Water Utilities Association 95th Annual School
February 24-27,2013 Corpus Christi, Texas
TWUA Professionals We are proud to announce our upcoming 95th Annual School in Corpus Christi, Texas at the American Bank Center. Please mark your calendars and take advantage of our training program and more. Please remember in some cases classroom sizes may be limited.
Hotel Reservation Information: Hotel: Group Code TWUA/ Omni Hotel Bayfront will serve as our host hotel again this year. Room rate $143+taxes) For direct information or reservation please call (800)843-6664 or you can visit www.omnihotel.com for on-line reservations. This information is also located on our website at www.twua.org. Please note group discount reservation cut-off date is February 1, 2013.
Academic Offerings: All classes are 20 hour training courses. We encourage everyone to attend General Session on Sunday,February 24th, at the Omni Hotel and
visit the Exhibitor Area at the American Bank Center. Technical Sessions will begin at 8:00 a.m. on Monday and will end at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
TCEQ Examinations Information: All TCEQ Water and Wastewater exams will be given at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 27th. Class “A” exams and TWUA L.A.S. Voluntary Laboratory Analysts will be given *Tuesday, February 26th, at 8:00 a.m. Applications for the “A” exam must be approved prior to the Annual School. Approval for an “A” exam takes approximately 30-60 days. Call TCEQ Occupational Licensing Section for more information. (512)239-6133 (W) (512) 239-0176 (WW). Payment must be made on-site or prior to testing. Please do not include testing fee with your TWUA registration. Please make check payable to: TCEQ and please allow (45) days for test results to be available on (TCEQ) website. Exam Fees: Water Licensing Exams............................$111 Wastewater Licensing Exams...................$111 Collection I/II/III.........................................$111 TWUA LAS......................................$105/$150
Pre-registration and payment is also required for the TWUA Voluntary Laboratory Analysts’ Certification Program. Contact David Moore at TWUA Central Office (512)279-8125 for more information.
Discounts, Fees and No Refunds Policy: By Mail or Online: Please submit all registration forms with a check or money order payable to: TWUA Central Office, 1106 Clayton Lane Suite #112 West, Austin, Texas 78723. Online registration is also available at www.twua.org. All major credit cards are accepted. Fees: MEMBER Pre-Registration Fee: ........................................$220
NON-MEMBER Pre-Registration Fee:................................$270 *On-Site Registration Fee (Member):.................................$270 *On-Site Registration Fee (non-member):..........................$320
w No Refunds: Attendee substitutions are acceptable if received in Central Office prior to February 15, 2013. In other cases the funds can be used toward a future TWUA course. w Discount: In an effort to encourage pre-registration and save money, all Annual School registrations received and paid prior to November 30, 2012 may deduct $20 dollars from the above listed price. December 31, 2012 registrants may deduct $15 dollars from the listed price. Payment must accompany registration to qualify for discount. Registrations will still be accepted in January 2013 however all prices will increase $50 dollars. We are requesting all registrations and payments be sent to TWUA Central Office prior to February 15, 2013 following this date on-site registration will be available.
16 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
January 2013
TWUA ANNUAL SCHOOL REGISTRATION FORM
Texas Water Utilities Association 95 Annual School (February 24-27,2013) th
95th Annual School Registration Form American Bank Convention Center - Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION 95th ANNUAL SCHOOL February 24 – 27, 2013 American Bank Convention Center – Corpus Christi, Texas
ACADEMIC OFFERINGS: WASTEWATER COURSES:
WATER COURSES:
Basic Wastewater Wastewater Treatment Wastewater Collection Activated Sludge Wastewater Laboratory Advanced Pretreatment
WATER / WASTEWATER COURSES:
Basic Water Ground Water Production Water Distribution Surface Water II Water Laboratory
Special Topics for Lab Analysts Water Utilities Management Calculations Water Utilities Safety Special Topics **** CCC/CSI CS- Utility Relations – No Operator Credit
**** Pending TCEQ Approval Special Notes: **** These courses REGISTRATION FEES:are pending TCEQ Approval; they will be 20 hour classes
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION MEMBERS ONLY
Pre-Registration Until 12-31-2012
On-Site & After 1-11-2013
Water and/or Wastewater Courses ................................................................................................................... $220 ................................................. CSS Utility Relations Course ............................................................................................................................. $230 ................................................. PES Advanced Pretreatment Course ................................................................................................................ $230 ................................................. LAS Special Topics for Lab Analysts........................................................................... ..................................... $230 .................................................
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION NON-MEMBERS
$ 270 $ 280 $ 280 $ 280
20 hour Water and/or Wastewater Courses ...................................................................................................... $270 ................................................. $ 320
REGISTRATION INFORMATION: Provide complete information for each registrant - Photocopy this form if necessary - Substitutions ONLY - Refunds Cannot Be Made
Name:_______________________________________________ SS# or License #: ________________________________________________________________ Badge Name (Nickname):__________________________________ Course Selection: _____________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________ Email: ___________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______________ Phone: _________________________________________________ Representing: _______________________________________ TWUA Member Method of Payment: Check (Ck #__________________)
Credit Card
YES
NO
Please provide information if a receipt is needed. Attn:___________________________________ Email:__________________________________ or Fax #:________________________________
Security Code: Bill my (Visa) (Master Card):_____________________________________________________________ Exp Date: _____________ Zip Code: ________________
Authorizing Signature for Credit Card: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
School Registration Fee (See Above)……………………………………. ...................................................................................... $___________ AA Club Luncheon Ticket - $25 (Monday) ……………………………………. .............................................................................. $___________ A Club Luncheon Ticket - $25 (Monday) ……………………………………. ................................................................................. $___________ Event Parking Pass - $15 (Mon. – Wed.) ……………………………………. ................................................................................ $___________ Total Enclosed……………………………………. ................................................................................................................. $___________ Please make checks payable to TWUA: Mail registration form with payment to:
Texas Water Utilities Association School Registration Fee Includes: Evening reception, continental breakfast, shuttleAnnual service and exhibits, space is limited so register early. Please make checks payable to TWUA: registration form with payment to: 1106 Clayton LaneMail Suite #112 West Texas Water- Utilities Association Annualonline School Austin, Texas 78723-1093 Registration is available at: www.twua.org 1106 Clayton Lane Suite367-8982 # 112 WestFax: (512) 459-71249-7124 For questions please call Central Office: (888) Austin, Texas 78723-1093 January 2013 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org Registration is available online at: www.twua.org Exhibits and Sponsorship Opportunities Are Available *Call Central Office for Questions: (888) 367-8982 Fax: (512)459-7124
DOUBLE "A" CLUB CALL FOR INDUCTEES
The Double "A" Club will conduct its annual induction of new members at their luncheon on Monday at 12:00 p.m., February 25, 2013, at the Omni Bayfront Hotel in Corpus Christi, Texas. Membership in this prestigious organization is limited to those who (1) are members of the Association (2) hold an "A" License in both water and wastewater and (3) apply for membership. To apply for induction, simply complete the form below, and mail it to TWUA Central Office at 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite #112 West, Austin, TX 78723-1093 or FAX it to 512/459-7124. Name: _______________________________________ SS#: License #_______________________________ Employer: ___________________________________Daytime Phone Number: (
) ______ -___________
Address: ___________________________________ City: ________________State______ Zip: ___________ "A" License Issue Dates: Water: ____________________ Wastewater: _____________________
"A" CLUB CALL FOR INDUCTEES
The "A" Club will conduct their luncheon on Monday, February 25, 2013, at the Omni Bayfront Hotel in Corpus Christi, Texas. at 12:00 p.m. Membership in this prestigious organization is limited to those who (1) are members of the Association, (2) hold an "A" License in either water or wastewater and (3) apply for membership. To apply for induction, simply complete the form below, and mail it to TWUA Central Office at 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite #112 West, Austin, TX 78723-1093 or FAX it to 512/459-7124. Name: _______________________________________ SS#: License #_______________________________ Employer: ___________________________________Daytime Phone Number: (
) ______ -___________
Address: ___________________________________ City: ________________State______ Zip: ___________ "A" License Issue Dates: Water: ____________________ Wastewater: _____________________
TWENTY-FIVE YEAR CLUB/CALL FOR INDUCTEES
The Association will honor new members of its Twenty-Five Year Club, and present this year's recipients at the TWUA General Session on Sunday, February 24, 2013 in the Ballroom of the Omni Bayfront Hotel Corpus Christi, Texas. Membership is limited to those who (1) are current members of the Association, (2) have been a member for twenty-five or more years and (3) who apply for membership. Years do not have to be consecutive. To apply for induction, simply complete the form below, and mail it to TWUA Central Office at 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite #112 West, Austin, TX 78723-1093 or FAX it to 512/459-7124. Name: _______________________________________ SS#: License #_______________________________ Employer: ___________________________________Daytime Phone Number: (
) ______ -___________
Address: ___________________________________ City: ________________State______ Zip: ___________ Region, District, Chapter, Section or other Affiliations: _____________________________________________ 18 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
January 2013
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION 95th ANNUAL SCHOOL February 24-27, 2013 – Corpus Christi, Texas
TIME 12:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 7:00 a.m. 7:00 a.m. 7:30 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. January 2013
MEETINGS AND EVENTS SCHEDULE
EVENT Sunday, February 24, 2013 Pre-Registration Opens Pre-Registration Closes Management Committee Meeting 2012 Final Board Meeting Opening General Session TWUA Awards Reception Monday, February 25, 2013 Registration Opens Instructors/Proctors Meeting Exhibition Area Opens All Classes Begin Best Tasting Water Contest Lunch “Double A Club” Luncheon “A Club” Luncheon All Class Resume Exhibition Area Closes All Classes Dismissed C.S.S. Board Meeting L.A.S. Board Meeting P.E.S. Board Meeting rd 3 Annual Sporting Clay Tournament Casino Night Tuesday, February 26, 2013 Committee Chair Meeting Exhibition Area Opens “A” License Exams All Classes Resume Lunch Exhibition Area Closes Southwest TX Regional Board Meeting All Classes Resume All Classes Dismissed Wednesday, February 27, 2013 All Classes Resume First 2013 Board Meeting All Classes Dismissed TCEQ W/WW Exams LAS. Exams
LOCATION
Exhibit Hall A (Convention Center) Exhibit Hall A (Convention Center) Omni Hotel-Partnership Boardroom Omni Hotel-Corpus A/B Ballroom Omni Hotel-Corpus A/B Ballroom Omni Hotel-Corpus C Ballroom Exhibit Hall A Pre-Registration Area (Convention Center) Exhibit Hall A Convention Center Exhibit Hall A Omni Hotel-Corpus C Ballroom Omni Hotel-Corpus A Ballroom Convention Center Exhibit Hall A Convention Center Omni Hotel-Laguna Madre Rm. Convention Center Corpus Christi Pistol & Rifle Club Omni Hotel- Corpus B/C Ballroom Partnership Boardroom Exhibit Hall A Room 226 (Convention Center) Exhibit Hall A Selena Rotunda (Convention Center)
Omni Hotel-Corpus C Ballroom Convention Center Convention Center TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
"TOP TEN CUSTOMER SERVICE STRATEGIES FOR THE NEW YEAR" By, Shep Hyken, Speaker 1. Be better than average. Amazing companies don’t always deliver “Wow!” type experiences. No, they are just a little better than average – all of the time. All of the time is the secret. Anyone can be good or great once in a while. It’s the consistency that makes them amazing. 2. Pay attention to details. Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest impact. Figure out the details that your customers enjoy and make them a routine part of doing business with you. 3. You may not be the owner, but you should care like you’re the owner. Not all owners or executives make great leaders, but the ones that are should be emulated. Watch how they take pride in how they deal with customers and employees. Then copy them. Act and care like you are the owner. 4. Analyze when things go right. When a company receives a complaint people usually have discussions to find out what went wrong and how to prevent it from happening again. Next time you receive a letter of praise, meet to find out what went right and how it can be repeated. Don’t, as the cliché goes, just learn from mistakes. 5. Focus on 100% wallet share. A loyal customer is a repeat customer, but may still buy from your competition. The ultimate loyal customer is a repeat customer that buys what you sell, but only from you, and not your competition. So, what are you doing right now that is going to make sure the customer, the next time they need what you sell, will come back – the next time, every time? 6. Use social media to enhance your customer service by sending value added messages, creating users groups and monitoring what others are saying about you. 7. Create a consistent experience. One sure way to erode loyalty is to deliver an inconsistent customer service experience. One time it’s great. The next time it is barely average. And, the next time it may be great 20 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
again. Inconsistency creates uncertainty. Uncertainty erodes confidence. Lack of confidence leads to lack of trust. All of that leads to giving a customer a reason to consider your competition. 8. “Peoplize” your business. (I made that word up.) People do business with people. Make it personal. Customers should want to do business with you because of you and your employees. Make your customers “feel at home.” You may have a great location, cool displays, great signage, etc. That’s all great, but if your people can’t make your customers feel welcome and appreciated, all of the other “stuff” doesn’t matter. 9. Experience your own customer service. If possible, personally mystery shop your own company. Find out how easy you are to do business with through your own experience. Sure, you can hire a company to do surveys and mystery shopping, but learning through your own experience can be an eye opening experience. 10. Create a customer service culture, and it starts by setting an example and practicing what I call, “The Employee Golden Rule” which is: Treat your employees the way you want the customer treated – maybe even better. By the way, everybody should practice this as when it comes to customer service, everyone is a leader. Bonus: Don’t forget to say, “Thank you!” It would be remiss of me not to remind you to show appreciation. You can thank a customer in person, on the phone, with a thank you note, an email… You get the idea. Now it’s up to you. Choose one customer service strategy to start with. Have a meeting around it. Discuss how to implement it. Then, do it! Here's to 2013 being your best customer service year ever! S
January 2013
3rd Annual TWUA Skeet Shooting Event
Hosted by: and
Monday, February 25th, 2013 @ 6:00 p.m. Come join us for homemade BBQ, fellowship, fun & competitive shooting on two fields! Tournament Prizes awarded for first, second and third place Bring your own shot gun we will have a few loaners (12 GA only). We will supply Ammo. We will be asking for a $10.00 donation for the V.M. Ehlers Foundation – A Memorial Scholarship Foundation
Company Name: __________________________________________________________________________________ Shooter: ___________________________________ Title: _______________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________________ State: _________ Zip: ___________________________________ Phone: (
) ____________________________Fax: (
) _____________________________________________
Email Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________ Location: Please return all forms to: Environmental Improvements, Inc Post Office Box 79266 Houston, TX 77279 Attn: Laura Trujillo E-Mail: laura@ei2hou.com January 2013
Corpus Christi Pistol & Rifle Club 2832 FM 763 Corpus Christi, TX 78415 www.ccpistolrifleclub.com
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS TEXAS WATER REUSE CONFERENCE July 12, 2013 Austin, Texas
ABSTRACTS DUE ON FEBRUARY 15, 2013
WATER REUSE ABSTRACT SUBJECT AREAS Texas WateReuse Association, Water Environment Association of Texas, and Texas American Water Works Association invite you to submit an abstract for the 3rd Annual Texas Water Reuse Conference — co-sponsored by our three associations.
UTILITY OPERATIONS CCC
Customer conversion challenges
CDS
Conveyance, distribution, and storage system design and operation – including crossconnection control
OPR
Operations/maintenance and operator issues
RCD
Reuse customer development
SESSION PROPOSALS: Individuals speakers and organizations may submit proposals for complete sessions (1.0 to 1.5-hour) duration. Session participants will be required to submit manuscripts and PowerPoint files in accordance with the same schedule as individual speakers.
RUD
Reuse utility development
WRP
Provider/distributor responsibility
RFO
Funding options for water reuse facilities
IMPORTANT DATES
WRR
Water reuse rate structures
INSTRUCTIONS: To be considered for a technical presentation, submit an abstract by FEBRUARY 15, 2013. Abstracts must be one page or less and include the title, author(s), and up to three subject areas selected from the box at right. Abstracts should be submitted to Vandertulipwd@cdmsmith.com.
FOLLOW THE MONEY
FEBRUARY 15, 2013
Abstracts due
WATER REUSE PLANNING
MARCH 8, 2013
Authors notified
IRD
International reuse case studies
MAY 24, 2013
Manuscripts due
MEM
Membranes, MBR and Satellite plants
JULY 5, 2013
PowerPoint Presentation due
PLN
Planning for water reuse
TEXAS WATER REUSE CONFERENCE
RGR
Regulatory, institutional, and legal issues
SUT
Sustainability through reuse
“NO PAPER/NO PODIUM” POLICY: By submitting an abstract, a potential presenter agrees to (1) prepare and submit a manuscript by MAY 24, 2013, for publication in the conference proceedings; (2) to prepare and deliver an oral presentation at the Conference; and (3) register for the conference by JULY 5, 2013. Speakers using visual aids in their presentations also agree to submit a PowerPoint presentation by JULY 5, 2013. Individuals who fail to submit a manuscript and presentation slides (if used) in a timely fashion will be replaced in the Conference program with an alternate presenter. See the list of important deadlines above.
URB
Urban reuse – golf courses, parks, landscape, residential
LOCATION: The 2013 Texas Water Reuse Conference will be held at the Austin Convention Center, Downtown Austin, 500 East Cesar Chavez, Austin, Texas. The conference is scheduled for 9 am to 4 pm, July 12, 2013. Make your reservations for $149 in the conference roomblock at the Hilton, Downtown Austin, 512.482.8000.
JULY 12, 2013
WATER QUALITY ISSUES DSQ
Maintaining reclaimed water distribution quality
GWI
Ground water issues and concepts – including aquifer storage and recovery
IPR
Indirect Potable Reuse
PRE
Potable reuse
TTR
Treatment technologies
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT: Don Vandertulip Chair, Technical Program Committee Phone: 210.253.2870 Vandertulipwd@cdmsmith.com
Roger Schenk Chair, TAWWA Reuse and Conservation Division Phone: 512. 346.1100 Schenkre@cdmsmith.com
22 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
Jenna Covington Chair, WEAT Water Reuse Committee Phone: 972.359.8751 Jennifer.Covington@ch2m.com January 2013
TWDB NEWS:
Panhandle Success Story: Amarillo's Potter County Wellfield By, TWDB Like a number of communities around Texas, Amarillo has been faced with a dwindling water supply. The city hadn’t drilled a major wellfield since 1956, and Lake Meredith served as one of the city’s major water sources. Lake Meredith is now 0.0 percent full. So where does Amarillo get its water today? From the recently completed Potter County Wellfield, a project that was funded, in part, with more than $86 million in financial assistance from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). “The Potter County Wellfield was designed to eliminate near- and mid-term reliance on Lake Meredith,” says Amarillo City Manager Jarrett Atkinson. And it’s done just that: today 20 miles of collection lines, a pump station and 18 miles of transmission line transport groundwater to city residents through about 70,000 connections. The Potter County Wellfield is just the first step in bringing water to Amarillo. “We were able to underspend as a result of the favorable bids we received,” says Atkinson.
The city is using the remaining funds to construct a combined high service and transfer pump station at the Osage Water Treatment Plant. “This high service pump station is the nexus that brings groundwater to the system at different points in town, providing a safe, adequate, redundant supply that moves water where and when it’s needed.” Discounted interest rates tied to the TWDB-provided funds had a tremendous effect on Amarillo residents. “Those savings were directly passed to consumers. Those with small properties or on a fixed income especially benefitedwe were able to set up a rate structure they could afford,” Atkinson reports. Most importantly, a reliable source of water is important to the city’s economy in the long term. Amarillo is a semiarid regional trade area, with the next large city, Lubbock, 120 miles away. “Lots of small communities rely on us. We’re not a metroplex; we need to stand on our own,” Atkinson says. “Economic development is key, and it’s tied to the availability of water. The support of the Potter County Wellfield Project gives us more advantages to sell.”
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24 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
January 2013
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION Individual Membership Application Use this form to: 1) Join TWUA "At Large" 2) Join TWUA and a District/Chapter 3) Renew your TWUA Membership Please Print Clearly
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Submit all dues to the TWUA Central Office: 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 112 W, Austin, TX 78723-1093 For more information, call 888-367-8982 or 512-459-3124. Fax: 512-459-7124.
January 2013
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TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
LANIER, STEVE L LIGHTNER, JACOB D LOWRY, ERRON L LUIS, FRANCISCO JR MABRY, MATTHEW K MCPHETERS, JUSTIN MERCER, KEVIN D MONTANO, LUIS A NEAL, ROGER D NUTT, KYLE W PADILLA, ANTHONY R RAHE, DAVID J RAMIREZ, LEONARDO RICHARDSON, TOMMY RODRIGUEZ, PAUL E SHEARER, GEORGE B SILVA, MARIO A SIMS, JAMIE L STINSON, DANIEL W STUBBLEFIELD, WILLIAM TAYLOR, SCOTT A TOVAR, RODRIGO TURNER, TY N VARGAS, WILLIE B WALSER, STEVEN D YORK, MARK E
MORALES, SALVADOR CLASS C
GOMEZ, HARLEY D JANDA, TRAVIS MOSELEY, JUSTIN R ROBBINS, CALVIN S SCHEXNIDER, ZACHARY SOLIS, MARCOS A VALLEJO, MICHAEL WADE, DANIEL R
CLASS C BARNHART, MICHAEL BRASUELL, BOBBY L BRUNETTE, RYAN J BURLESON, CHRISTINA CARRANZA, MICHAEL CAVAZOS, JOSE A CLARK, ROBERT J DAVIS, ANTHONY L DWORZAK, MICHAEL FISHER, JAMES A FLORES, JOSE A GARCIA, SAMUEL GLENN, JAMES I HERNANDEZ, FRED JENNINGS, JACQUELINE JONES, PAUL D LAKE, KENNETH R LANGFORD, GARY LEGGETT, CHARLES LISING, PORFIRIO C MALINOWSKI, CHRIS MARLER, MARK D MAYES, AARON L MCKINNON, DAVID NUNLEY, BUCK W PARKER, DANNY C POTTER, WADYS W POTTS, TROY F RAMIREZ, PABLO SHEPPARD, BECKIE SOTO, JESUS THOMAS, JONATHAN THOMPSON, ROBERT TILL, MARK D YANEZ, GABRIEL III
LICENSES ISSUED: NOVEMBER 2012
WATER OPERATOR CLASS A BOYD, BILL J BROOKS, KEVIN H SR HEAPS, JOHN E MONFREDA, MATTHEW WOOLFORK, ANTHONY CLASS D
ADAIR, ZACHARY C BRIDGES, CHRIS DIMITRIADIS, JOHN ESPINOZA, GILBERT ESTEVIS, LUIS A GALE, GARY L HIGH, RONNELL A HURST, CRIS MCCALLUM, DAN STONE, TARISSA
CLASS II BRYANT, MARK A FINLEY, JAMES A GALVEZ, JOSE M RUSH, ROBERT A SALAS, TONY
WATER DIST CLASS B FINCH, JEREMY W INGRAM, KIRK J RAMON, MITCHELL RODRIGUEZ, ELEAZAR
GROUND WATER CLASS C AGUIRRE, JONATHON ARREOLA, ELPIDIO COONS, MARK T CLASS B BAIN, RANDY D DUNN, KEVIN W SR BENNETT, ANTHONY E RS ARJONA, JESSIE R EVERETT, BRENTLEY CHANDLER, DANNY BLACKBURN, JAMES R FAZ, TERRY J MENDEZ, ADRIEL BONFIELD, THOMAS J GONZALEZ, JOSE WRIGHT, PHILIP BORDOVSKY, LAWRENCE MORMAN, JERRY BRADFORD, DONOVAN D MUNIZ, JUAN G BRODIE, TIM B PAYNE, MICHAEL CLASS C BRONAUGH, ROBERT ROBINSON, JAMES BUSIC, DANIEL ADAMS, RANDALL SALAS, JOHN M CLINTON, JOSHUA L ALLEN, JAMES L VANZANDT, JEREMIAH COEN, STEVEN J ARANDA, DANNY VILLARREAL, GUADALUPE COKER, KENNETH D AVILA, ALEJANDRO WARREN, TIMOTHY B COMPEAN, VINCENT BRANNAN, BILLIE D WILLIAMS, JACOB P DARVIS, MARISSA N BRIDGES, TYLER A WILSON, JOE L JR DICKSON, BENJAMIN GARRISON, FLOYD WIMBERLY, ROBERT DOVE, RYAN M GIPSON, MICHAEL ELLISON, JACOB C MARBLE, JOSH D WASTEWATER FOGG, TANYA E MARSH, STEPHEN C FOSS, ISAAC R MARTINEZ, OSBALDO WASTEWATER GALE, CHARLES L MORIN, RONALD J COLLECTION GALINDO, ARTURO NEWKIRK, JACK C GRAY, DUSTIN B NOBLES, KENNETH GREEN, CORNELIA CLASS I RODRIGUEZ, JORGE HULME, DANIEL W STUFFLET, LAURENCE ACUNA, GILBERT T JAKUBIK, RUSSELL BOGLE, JEREMY M JORDEN, ALICIA E CORN, JAMES R JR KIRK, BRIAN W SURFACE WATER FELDER, LOUIS B JR LANG, BENJAMIN D FLORES, EDUARDO LANGLEY, JACKSON CLASS B GILSTRAP, DAVID R LANIER, STEVE L GOMEZ, HARLEY D LIGHTNER, JACOB D MORALES, SALVADOR JANDA, TRAVIS LOWRY, ERRON L MOSELEY, JUSTIN R LUIS, FRANCISCO JR ROBBINS, CALVIN S CLASS C MABRY, MATTHEW K SCHEXNIDER, ZACHARY MCPHETERS, JUSTIN SOLIS, MARCOS A ADAIR, ZACHARY C MERCER, KEVIN D VALLEJO, MICHAEL BRIDGES, CHRIS MONTANO, LUIS A WADE, DANIEL R NEAL, ROGER D DIMITRIADIS, JOHN ESPINOZA, GILBERT NUTT, KYLE W ESTEVIS, LUIS A PADILLA, ANTHONY R CLASS II RAHE, DAVID J GALE, GARY L HIGH, RONNELL A RAMIREZ, LEONARDO BRYANT, MARK A HURST, CRIS RICHARDSON, TOMMY FINLEY, JAMES A RODRIGUEZ, PAUL E MCCALLUM, DAN GALVEZ, JOSE M STONE, TARISSA SHEARER, GEORGE B RUSH, ROBERT A SILVA, MARIO A SALAS, TONY 28 TEXAS UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org SIMS, JAMIEWATER L WATER DIST STINSON, DANIEL W STUBBLEFIELD, WILLIAM CLASS III TAYLOR, SCOTT A CLASS B
CLASS III BARRIENTOS, JUAN D BELL HEBERT, TAKASA JACKSON, SHAY L JONES, LARRY D LAIRD, RICKY L NELSON, JOHN D PATTON, JOHNNY C RIOS, JUAN J SANDERS, GARY L WASTEWATER TREATMENT CLASS A AGUIRRE, JAVIER BERGER, WAYNE CLINTON, RICHARD LUCAS, BRIAN K SELF, JASPER M III CLASS B BENAVIDES, JOE JOHN CHAVEZ, DEVIN V CRENSHAW, BRANDON DAVIS, MATTHEW R FORD, DENNIS L SR HINOJOSA, JESUS JARRELLS, ROBERT NEELY, CLIFTON E III OBRYANT, JONATHAN OSTEEN, CHARLES P RAMIREZ, BENJAMIN SALDIVAR, ROSARIO STAGGS, CLINT A CLASS C BARNHART, MICHAEL BRASUELL, BOBBY L BRUNETTE, RYAN J BURLESON, CHRISTINA CARRANZA, MICHAEL CAVAZOS, JOSE A CLARK, ROBERT J DAVIS, ANTHONY L DWORZAK, MICHAEL FISHER, JAMES A FLORES, JOSE A GARCIA, SAMUEL GLENN, JAMES I HERNANDEZ, FRED JENNINGS, JACQUELINE JONES, PAUL D LAKE, KENNETH R LANGFORD, GARY
CLASS D ABILA, FRANCISCO BARRIENTOS, PEDRO BLAKLEY, CARL JR BLASSINGAME, KENNETH BRAGG, ABRAHAM J DEATON, GRADY J PHD DUNNE, DAVID L ERNST, PAUL A FACHORN, MARK L FLEMING, HAROLD FLORES, RODOLFO GALLEGOS, EUGENE GALVAN, ISAIAH GONZALEZ, FABIAN GRAY, JOSH J GRAY, WILLIAM HELMS, SHANE HERNANDEZ, JOSE HERNANDEZ, RAUL HESS, TRENT H HINSON, KEVIN HOAK, MITCHELL HODGE, HELEN L HODKINSON, ANDREW HUGHES, WILLIAM J III JACKSON, KENDAL JARMA, THOMAS JEWEL, MICHAEL KELM, DWAIN C
January 2013
BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY TESTER ARELLANO, JOSE BARNETT, MICHAEL CAMACHO, FLORIBERTO CLAY, CALYN G DRAKE, CHAD D EGGERT, DARYNN ELLIOTT, AARON GILSON, GRANT GRUBB, ANDREW HULCY, WADE JOHNSON, JACOB KEMP, MOSES D KEYES, JASON R LOVE, PRINCE MAK, NARO MILLER, LEON NELSEN, DEVAN L NORMAN, JOHN T RANDLE, MARK A RIVERA, WILLIAM SAWYER, JOSHUA SIRAJ, SYED M SMITH, GARY W STAROSKE, TOM STCLAIRE, RICHARD TYSON, JOHN R III VARGA, PETER A VESS, DAVID A JR VEST, JACK H III January 2013 CUSTOMER SERVICE INSPECTOR
CUSTOMER SERVICE INSPECTOR AGUILAR, ADOLARIO CURRAN, MICHAEL DAUGHTREY, CHRIS GARCIA, ALEJANDRO GARCIA, TONY JR GARVIN, JAMES E GUEVARA, JOSE HENDRIX, JAMES HOLDER, CHARLES KORNEGAY, KARISSA MACGREGOR, MICHAEL NOFFSINGER, STEVE STAROSKE, TOM WEBER, PAULA D WILLIAMS, SCOTT
Licensing Review Questions 1. According to 30 TAC 290.42(d)(1) - all surface treatment process SHALL be designed to achieve at least a _______ log removal of Cryptosporidium, a _________ log removal or inactivation of Giardia and a ________ log removal or inactivation of viruses before the water is supplied to any customer a. 1 Log Cryptosporidium, 2 Log Giardia, and 3 Log Viruses b. 2 Log Cryptosporidium, 3 Log Giardia, and 4 Log Viruses c. 2 Log Cryptosporidium, 4 Log Giardia, and 6 Log Viruses d. 1 Log Cryptosporidium, 3 Log Giardia, and 3 Log Viruses e. 3 Log Cryptosporidium, 3 Log Giardia, and 5 Log Viruses 2. TAC 30-290.42(d)(11)(B0(i) – The design capacity of gravity rapid sand filters Shall not exceed a maximum filtration rate of – a. 2.0 gallons /per sq. ft /per minute b. 2.5 gallons / per sq. ft / per minute c. 4.0 gallons / per sq. ft / per minute d. 5.0 gallons / per sq. ft / per minute e. 6.0 gallons / per sq. ft. / per minute 3. The term “Zeta Potential” is defined as – a. A measure of the force facilitating the joining of particles b. A measure of the force preventing particles from joining c. A measure of the molecular weight of chemical added d. A measure of the efficiency of the treatment plant e. A measure of sludge generated by the addition of synthetic polymers 4. A surface water treatment plant is using Alum at the rate of 7 mg/L. The plant treats 1,250,000 gallons per day – How many pounds of Alum will be used each day & what is the minimum amount in total pounds that must be kept on hand ? a. 10.4 Lbs. per day & 156 Lbs. on hand b. 58.3 Lbs. per day & 875 Lbs. on hand c. 73 Lbs per day & 1095 Lbs on hand d. 107 Lbs. per day & 1605 Lbs. on hand e. Not enough information to compute Answers to Licensing Review: 1.B 2.A 3.B 4.C
KIRVIN, GEORGE LANE, JIMMY L LANG, BENJAMIN LOTT, CAMERON MARDIS, JOEY D MARTINEZ, ANDRES MARTINEZ, MICHAEL MCCORD, SHAWN B MILLER, DOUGLAS MLETZKO, JOHN R MOORE, LAMONTRA MORALES, CARLOS MORALES, ROBERT MURO, TERRY L ODOM, KENNETH II PRIVETT, JAMES PRYOR, BOGIE P QUINTANILLA, DAVID RUIZ, JAVIER O SAMUELSON, SHANE SANCHEZ, MICHAEL SHITABULE, PATRICK SMITH, COY L SUPAK, JEROME P TARRANT, CHRIS THOMPSON, JACK WILLIAMS, JOE
LOVE, PRINCE MAK, NARO MILLER, LEON NELSEN, DEVAN L NORMAN, JOHN T RANDLE, MARK A RIVERA, WILLIAM SAWYER, JOSHUA SIRAJ, SYED M SMITH, GARY W STAROSKE, TOM STCLAIRE, RICHARD TYSON, JOHN R III VARGA, PETER A VESS, DAVID A JR VEST, JACK H III
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: www.SmithPump.com
Central Texas Based Family Business Celebrates 50 Years Amid economic downturn, water and wastewater pump business continues to expand.
Waco, TX – Founder Thomas Granger Smith, P.E. used to say, “If you take care of your customers and your employees, the business will run itself”. This philosophy still resounds strongly within the walls of Smith Pump Company, Inc. Fifty years ago, on November 8th 1962, Tom opened up Smith-Bradshaw Pump Company in a small office building with a dirt floor shop on Franklin Avenue. Today, with Tom’s leadership for 20 years and Tom’s son, L. Granger Smith, P.E. at the helm for the last 30 years, Smith Pump Company has become a leader in the sales and service of centrifugal pumps in the water and wastewater industry in Texas and beyond. Opening its 6th office in Houston in November of this year, Smith Pump continues to grow and expand despite the current economic downturn our nation is experiencing. Recently achieving the much respected ISO 9001:2008 certification this year, Smith Pump’s customers can be assured that the company’s standards continue to be industry leading. Granger recently stated, “Smith Pump Company Inc. is committed to continually meet or exceed customer satisfaction by providing quality products and services that comply with all commitments and meet expectations. We continually improve our products, services, and our quality management system in an effort to achieve this policy.” Beyond the corporate office in Waco, branch offices in Fort Worth and Austin have been operating upwards of 35 and 30 years respectively. The McAllen office opened more recently in 2007. When San Antonio branch office opened in 1999, Tom Smith fulfilled a goal he had for many years. In 1955, Tom began his career in the water pump industry with SAMSCO, San Antonio Machine and Supply Company. It was his promotion to branch manager that brought Tom and his family to Waco to run the SAMSCO office, located on the Brazos River across from the suspension bridge. When SAMSCO was sold and liquidated in 1962, Tom found himself without a job and 3 children to feed. Because of his diligence and commitment, SAMSCO pump customers continued to call him to satisfy their pump equipment needs. From the dirt floor shop to six offices and shops across the state, Smith Pump has grown to employ close to 90 hard-working, trained and qualified professionals. Quality, guarantee, and timeliness continue to be its focus as it celebrates 50 successful years in the water and wastewater industry. “Water is precious. It is our life. We need it to live. Use it wisely. And finally, when you don’t have it…call Smith Pump Company!” - Granger Smith. For more information about the company’s products, services and/or employment opportunities, please visit www.SmithPump.com.
30 TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL www.twua.org
January 2013
Water, Agua, L’eau, Wasser, Acqua, Água.
In any language, Flowserve is the proven leader. Byron Jackson ® Worthington ® IDP ® Pleuger ® With a global footprint spanning 55 countries, Flowserve is a proven, trusted partner, providing innovative pumping and sealing solutions for the water industry when and where they are needed. And with 50 years of experience and six Texas locations, Smith Pump partners with Flowserve to provide the combined benefits of vast expertise, product breadth and offerings for every essential water resource pumping requirement throughout the state. Well-respected product brands, unmatched product portfolio and experienced associates make it easy to specify Flowserve pumps with confidence... in any language.
For more information, contact Smith Pump Company at www.smithpump.com or visit http://water.flowserve.com.
Smith Pump Company Fort Worth • Waco • Austin • San Antonio • McAllen • Houston Phone: 1 800 299 8909