Alabama Rural Water Association

Remember when adding five new connections was a busy year? When development happened only to the large utilities? When fire flows weren't even discussed? Today, thousands of mid-sized and smaller water and wastewater utilities find developers at their door, along with an engineer and attorney. Those developers want action, now.

What spurs them on? A robust economy, aging baby boomers seeking rural tranquility and low interest rates lead the list. The result: Residential subdivisions and commercial/business developments popping up in what was a soybean field just six months ago.

Development is a double-edged sword. Yes, it brings new tax base, jobs and customers. But it can also bring risks. Those risks range from developers not paying their fair share, to legal challenges because the system didn't adhere to its policies and ordinances. Many of the smallest systems have no policies.

Boards/councils, development is the new frontier. It brings your system into the cross-hairs of three huge national issues: Economic development, quality of life and environmental protection. That's why so many eyes watch what your system does or doesn't do. Your errors and omissions may end up before a regulatory agency, court of law, or for sure the court of public opinion.

Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted nationally with utilities, developers and industry experts. Special appreciation goes to Jason Green, General Manager and Program Specialist, Oregon Association of Water Utilities, for his insights and sharing of association materials. Many thanks go to the persons interviewed.

Final thanks go to Rich Becker, Becker Design, Prairie Village, KS for the layout and cartoons that have gained national approval for the entire Water Board Bible series.

Developers: Coming your way fast! is dedicated to the thousands of water and wastewater systems now in the development game. Its high stakes include the major items in our culture: Money, power, jobs and prestige.

We hope this handbook helps you, the owner, to set up an effective working relationship with developers. Your community is counting on that relationship to help achieve its desired future. When done right, the partnership between utility and developer will result in jobs and quality of life that your children and grandchildren will enjoy.

Ellen G. Miller
Elmer Ronnebaum

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