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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities of Springfield will be sending line crews to the Independence, MO area to assist with power restoration efforts. Independence Power and Light has requested the assistance in response to the significant number of customers without power. “If the opportunity to help our neighbors during a time of crisis is needed, that is what we as a company will always try to do.” said John Twitty, CU General Manager.
Good afternoon:
Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: • Water Utility Equipment Master Lease: • General Managers Authority: • Lake Springfield Park Area: Additionally, the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: • Water Supply and Distribution: • Energy Management & Conservation: • State Audit Action Plan Update:
Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities of Springfield (CU) today released a statement from General Manager John Twitty regarding the findings in the Missouri Public Service Commission staff’s report on the utility’s telecommunications services. The commission staff reviewed CU’s telecommunications activities and found no violations of either state law or the commission’s order, issued to the utility in 1997. The review was prompted by the state audit of CU in 2007. “The utility works hard every day to do the right things in the right way for our customers. We are pleased the PSC staff’s review found that CU’s telecommunications operations adhere to commission rules and to state law,” CU General Manager John Twitty said. The utility does not anticipate changes to its telecommunications services as a result of the PSC staff’s review. Missouri Public Service Commission staff’s report on For more information about CU, visit www.cityutilities.net.
SPRINGFIELD, MO, April 16, 2008 – Two CU Community loan officers were presented with Credit Union National Association (CUNA) scholarships, and the VP of Marketing received a Certificate of Excellence from Graphic Design USA. Senior Loan Officer Stephanie Thomas and Mortgage Loan Officer Casey Cooper were each awarded scholarships from the Missouri Credit Union Association. Stephanie’s scholarship was for CUNA’s week long Advanced Consumer Lending School in San Francisco, California. Casey’s scholarship was for CUNA’s Mortgage Lending School in Atlanta, GA. They were 2 of only 14 recipients chosen in Missouri.
Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities of Springfield is introducing the City Utilities EnergyWise Grant Program. This program is intended to help fund projects that may cost effectively reduce energy and water consumption, or electric demand, and that do not qualify for existing prescribed rebate programs. Eligible participants are City Utilities commercial electric, natural gas or water customers who are non-profit organizations (those with 501(c)(3) status), governmental entities, or academic institutions. The deadline for grant application is May 15, 2008. The maximum grant amount available is $50,000, and is offered once per year. The grant request may be a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $50,000. The final award amount(s) will be determined after all applications received are reviewed on merit and impact of project. All grant funds awarded must be completely used and project completed within eighteen (18) months of grant award. As part of the enhanced energy management and conservation effort implemented by City Utilities with the approval and support from the Board of Public Utilities and Springfield City Council, this program is intended to extend the utility’s assets and resources, both natural and man-made, further into the future. For additional information about the grant program and application criteria, contact the Energy Management & Conservation department of City Utilities at 874-8200 or visit our website.
Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: · Expenditure Guidelines Policy: · Extension Policy Modification: · Natural Gas Rate Increase: Additionally, the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Water Supply and Distribution: Storm Damage Claims:
Presentations and public hearings regarding proposed natural gas rate increase and service extension policy Springfield, Missouri— The Citizens’ Advisory Council of City Utilities of Springfield will be holding a public hearing on a proposed natural gas rate increase and a revision to the Service Extension Policy. The hearings will be held following presentations to outline the proposed increase and policy revisions. The Citizens’ Advisory Council will meet Thursday, March 6, at 3:30 p.m. in the C. Frank Knox Board room of City Utilities at 301 E. Central. The natural gas rate increase proposal will be sent to the Board of Public Utilities for consideration. Following the approval of the Board, the proposal will then be sent to Springfield City Council for additional public input. The last time a natural gas rate increase was approved was in April of 2006.
Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities has rescheduled the community input meeting regarding possible changes to the tree management and clearance standards near power lines. The meeting will be held Wednesday, March 5, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Library Center, 4653 S. Campbell Following a brief presentation, representatives from the Electric Transmission and Distribution and Tree Management areas of City Utilities will be available to answer questions. “Keeping tree limbs out of contact with power lines is necessary to insure that power interruptions are kept at a minimum,” said John Twitty, CU General Manager. “Tree trimming is a controversial topic for all utility providers. With these meetings, we want to convey to our customers what clearances we need to have and also determine what concerns they have with the policies.” City Utilities has budgeted $2.5 million for tree trimming in FY 2008. |
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SPRINGFIELD, MO, February 25, 2008 – CU Community Credit Union has recently promoted Jenny Reynolds from Marketing Director to Vice President of Marketing. Jenny has been a part of the CU family since January 2006. Some of her duties include graphic design, event planning, and media relations for the credit union. Jenny graduated from Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Advertising and Promotion. She also received a minor in Art. She was a recipient of the Credit Union National Association Diamond Award for New Member Packet and Brochure design in 2007.
Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolution: Internal Audit Committee: The Internal Audit Committee met and approved the Internal Audit Plan of City Utilities for The Board of Public Utilities was also advised of the following during today’s meeting: Energy Management & Conservation: Electric Transmission & Distribution: High Volume Call Answer System: Tree Trimming Community Input Meetings:
NOTICE AND TENTATIVE AGENDA OF A 1. Opening Remarks P. Wannenmacher 2. Approval of Minutes (2a) P. Wannenmacher 3. Public Comment P. Wannenmacher 4. Committee Reports Committee Chairmen 6. General Manager's Report J. Twitty Any other items that may properly come before the Board. Closed Item. February 21 Thursday 2:30 p.m. Closed Meeting of the CU Internal Audit CommitteeC. Frank Knox Board Room301 East Central
City Utilities power outage restoration substantially complete Springfield, Missouri—As of 7:30 a.m., February 15, City Utilities reports that restoration efforts are substantially complete, and is in the process of resuming normal daily operations. Since the morning of Monday, February 11, just over 11,000 outages have been reported through the outage system at City Utilities. CU is in the process of confirming that power has been restored to all customers who can accept electric service. If a CU customer is still without power, they are asked to call the utility at 863-9000 to report it. Customers are reminded that damaged weatherheads or electric service entry points, may delay restoration efforts. Due to safety concerns, CU will not connect service to homes or businesses that have sustained damage to the weatherhead or if damage is suspected. Customers must contact a licensed electrician to perform repairs before electric service can be completely restored. Customers are asked to turn off the main breaker switch in the electric panel before power is completely restored. CU has a total of 90 tree trimming crews and 55 line crews assisting with restoration efforts.. Combined this is a total of approximately 375 people assisting in the field.
Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities (CU) has canceled the tree trimming community input meeting originally scheduled for tonight at The Library Center on South Campbell. Power outages from this week’s ice storm have focused the utility’s full attention on restoring power to customers as quickly and safely as possible. The meeting, which was designed to gather input from the community on the utility’s tree trimming policies, will be rescheduled.
SPRINGFIELD, MO, February 6, 2008 – CU Community Credit Union is offering free Identity Theft sessions to area businesses, churches and community groups. Starting this month through the rest of the year, credit union President Judy Hadsall will present on-site sessions for various City Utilities departments. According to NBC Financial Advisor Jean Chatzsky, every minute of every day, 17 people in the U.S. have their identities stolen. CU Community’s identity theft sessions, entitled Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft, cover important topics ranging from initial identity theft prevention to victim defense. Each participant receives a reference guide that includes useful tips and resources. The ease of obtaining credit combined with highly accessible information has led to the expansion of a crime that feeds on consumers’ inability to control who accesses their sensitive information and how it is safeguarded,” says Hadsall. “Our goal through these sessions is to help consumers better understand identity theft and how to protect their sensitive data.” If you would like information on setting up an on-site presentation for your own business, church or community group, please email Jenny Reynolds at jreynolds@cupowerline.org, or call 417.865.3912. About CU Community: |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities will be holding two meetings for community input regarding possible changes to the tree management and clearance standards near power lines. The meetings are scheduled for: Following a brief presentation, representatives from the Electric Transmission and Distribution and Tree Management areas of City Utilities will be available to answer questions. “Keeping tree limbs out of contact with power lines is necessary to insure that power interruptions are kept at a minimum,” said John Twitty, CU General Manager. “Tree trimming is a controversial topic for all utility providers. With these meetings, we want to convey to our customers what clearances we need to have and also determine what concerns they have with the policies.” City Utilities has budgeted $2.5 million for tree trimming in FY 2008. |
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Following swearing in ceremonies today, three new members began serving terms on the Board of Public Utilities. The appointees are: · Mr. Tom Rankin - Owner/broker of Sperry Van Ness/Rankin Company, LLC · Mr. Mike Peters - Vice President of Public Affairs, St. John's Health System · Dr. Krystal Compas - Assistant to the President, Drury University Annual Independent Financial Audit: The Board of Public Utilities received the audited financial statements from KPMG LLP, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007. KPMG LLP has given City Utilities of Springfield an unqualified or “clean” opinion to this audit. All areas audited by KPMG were found to be in compliance in all aspects. The independent audit of City Utilities is performed annually at the end of each fiscal year. Additionally, the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: State Audit Action Plan: Tree Trimming Community Input Meetings: |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities Transit Driver James Fryar has been selected as the 2007 Driver of the Year. The official presentation will take place Monday, January 28, at 1:30 p.m. in the Transit office located at 1505 N. Boonville. James previously received the Driver of the Year award in 2004. The selection is based on job performance, courtesy, neatness, attendance, accident-free driving, and attitude. The Driver of the Year is chosen by CU Transit employees. James has been employed by City Utilities Transit as a bus operator since 2001 and currently works a late night route that serves north and west areas of Springfield. |
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Springfield, Missouri--As of 11 p.m. Tuesday, January 8, City Utilities reports that power has been restored to all customers who are able to receive power. Crews will continue to work overnight to finalize the restoration efforts. An estimated 10,000 outages occurred during the peak of the severe weather. City Utilities declared emergency status at 7 p.m. Monday evening. Since then CU and contract crews have worked around the clock to safely restore power to all customers. If a CU customer is still without power, they should call 863-9000 to report the outage. In some instances storm damage may require a customer to have a licensed electrician make repairs before power can be completely restored. During widespread outages, repairs move in a logical sequence out from the power source, to the substations and feeders, and then into neighborhoods and individual homes. As the outage progresses, restoration progress may slow, because of unique problems isolated to smaller groups of customers. High winds and flying debris caused the outages over a widespread area of CU's system, which serves 106,000 electric customers. Important safety reminders from CU: For more information: http://www.cityutilities.net/resident/outage.htm |
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Springfield, Missouri-- As of 8:30 p.m. Tuesday evening, City Utilities reports 200 customers remain without power, down from a high of 10,000 outages during the peak of the severe weather. Both CU crews and utility contract crews are working around-the-clock, on emergency status, to restore power. The utility estimates it will be Wednesday before all customers have power restored. During widespread outages, repairs move in a logical sequence out from the power source, to the substations and feeders, and then into neighborhoods and individual homes. As the outage progresses, restoration progress may slow, because of unique problems isolated to smaller groups of customers. High winds and flying debris caused the outages over a widespread area of CU's system, which serves 106,000 electric customers. Important safety reminders from CU • Stay away from any downed line, whether on the road or in your yard, even if you are not sure if it is an electric, telephone or cable line. For more information: http://www.cityutilities.net/resident/outage.htm |
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Springfield, Missouri-- As of late Tuesday afternoon, City Utilities reports 2,000 customers remain with power, down from a high of 10,000 outages during the peak of the severe weather. Both CU crews and utility contract crews are working around-the-clock, on emergency status, to restore power. The utility estimates it will be Wednesday before all customers have power restored. During widespread outages, repairs move in a logical sequence out from the power source, to the substations and feeders, and then into neighborhoods and individual homes. As the outage progresses, restoration progress may slow, because of unique problems isolated to smaller groups of customers. High winds and flying debris caused the outages over a widespread area of CU's system, which serves 106,000 electric customers. Important safety reminders from CU • Stay away from any downed line, whether on the road or in your yard, even if you are not sure if it is an electric, telephone or cable line. For more information: http://www.cityutilities.net/resident/outage.htm |
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Springfield, Missouri-- As of 10:15 a.m., City Utilities is reporting 5,000 power outages from the overnight severe weather, down from a high of 10,000 outages during the peak of the storm. High winds and flying debris caused the outages over a widespread area of CU's system, which serves 106,000 electric customers. Both CU crews and utility contract crews are working around-the-clock, on emergency status, to speed the storm restoration. Stay safe in the wake of the storms • Stay away from any downed line, whether on the road or in your yard, even if you are not sure if it is an electric, telephone or cable line. For more information: http://www.cityutilities.net/resident/outage.htm |
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Springfield, Missouri—Electric crews with City Utilities of Springfield are currently assessing damage and responding to outage calls following several rounds of storms that went through the Springfield area overnight. The first round of storms that passed through Monday evening, disrupted electric service to approximately 400 customers throughout the service territory. The heaviest damage to the system could be found in the northern sections of the city where several utility poles were damaged. The last storm front that went through Springfield around 3 a.m. today left varying degrees of damage across the system. At last count, approximately 500 customers had reported power outages. At 7 p.m., Monday, January 7, City Utilities Electric Dispatch went into emergency status and will remain at that level until further notice. Customers should call City Utilities at 863-9000 to report a power outage. CU would like to remind everyone of the following safety precautions: · Stay away from any downed line and call CU immediately – even if you are not sure if it is an electric, telephone, or cable line. |
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City Utilities State Audit Action Plan now underway: The Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: Additionally, the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Transit: Natural Gas Distribution: Water Distribution & Supply: Electric Transmission & Distribution: Management Services: Energy Management & Conservation: |
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Springfield, Missouri—On New Year’s Day, Tuesday, January 1, CU Transit Services will operate routes on a holiday schedule. Routes and schedules will be operated normally on New Year’s Eve. Transit Services will offer hourly bus service using routes and schedules normally operated nightly and on Sundays. Service will begin at the Park Central transfer facility at 8:10 a.m., with the last trip leaving the transfer facility at 5:10 p.m. Access Express bus service will be available from 8:10 a.m. until 5:10 p.m. on January 1. Normal daily routes for Transit Services will resume Wednesday, January 2, at 6 a.m. For more information, call CU Transit Services at 831-8782, or visit www.cityutilities.net The City Utilities main office at 301 E. Central, and all other facilities, will be closed for New Year’s Day on Tuesday, January 1. Customers wishing to make payments may use the payment drop boxes located at 301 E. Central, or any authorized payment location. In the event of an outage or emergency, customers should call City Utilities at 863-9000. |
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Springfield, Missouri—In response to the findings and recommendations of the State Audit of City Utilities of Springfield, John Twitty, General Manager and CEO announced today the key elements of the State Audit Action Plan. Elements of the plan will include the following: • An Initial Report to the General Manager to be presented to the Board of Public Utilities, no later than January 31, 2008. “We view the findings and recommendations from the State Audit as an opportunity to improve our operations,” said John Twitty, CU General Manager. “We are absolutely committed to addressing each of the recommendations in a timely fashion, while realizing that some of them cannot be addressed by CU alone. In those areas where a broader discussion of the issues is necessary, we will work to bring together those parties whose input is important in finding a solution.” These actions are to completed under the direction of Brenda Putnam, Associate General Manager-Chief Internal Auditor, and John Black, Associate General Manager-General Counsel, and are being done in response to the recommendations contained in the State Audit received on December 18, 2007. |
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CU purchases six acre tract from Comstock Trust Springfield, Missouri— City Utilities announced today that the Utility has entered into a contract to purchase a six acre tract near McDaniel Lake, one of the City's sources of drinking water. The contract has become effective by the exercise of an option to purchase the real estate, approved by the Board of Public Utilities at its closed session on December 18. The property is located across Farm Road 76 from McDaniel Lake. “We are pleased to have this property under contract as we continue our daily efforts to provide safe, clean drinking water for CU customers,” said Wade Stinson, CU Associate General Manager – Operations. The property was purchased from the Rolland Comstock Trust for a price or $220,000 and has cleared a The Missouri Sunshine Law allows real estate matters to me considered in closed session but requires the record to be released when the contract becomes effective. |
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Springfield, Missouri— The City Utilities main office at 301 E. Central, and all other facilities, will be closed in observance of Christmas on Monday, December 24, and Tuesday, December 25. The main office will open at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 26. On Christmas Day, Tuesday, December 25, CU Transit Services will operate routes on a holiday schedule. Transit Services will offer hourly bus service using routes and schedules normally operated nightly and on Sundays. Service will begin at the Park Central transfer facility at 11:10 a.m., with the last trip leaving the transfer facility at 4:10 p.m. Access Express bus service will be available from 11:10 a.m. until 4:10 p.m. on December 25. Normal daily routes for Transit Services will resume Wednesday, December 26, at 6 a.m. For more information, call CU Transit Services at 831-8782, or visit www.cityutilities.net In the event of an outage or emergency, customers should call City Utilities at 863-9000. |
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“We feel that the results of this survey are good news for our electric customers”, said John Twitty, CU General Manger, “It reinforces that our efforts to provide reliable electric service are done in an affordable manner.” The Lincoln Electric System Survey is conducted every year based on January rates and every other year based on July rates. Earlier this year in a survey conducted by Memphis Gas Light & Water, City Utilities of Springfield ranked lowest in a survey of 25 selected cities. Those findings, listed below, were based on January 1, 2007 rates which included combined utility bills for 1000 kWh of electricity, 200 therms of natural gas, 15 ccf of water, and 15 ccf of wastewater service represents an average, total customer bill for these services. The prices are based on rates in effect at the utilities on January 1, 2007. |
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Virginia Fry, Chairman—Board of Public Utilities, 2007 "Good evening. I’m Virginia Fry and I served as Chairman of the Board of Public Utilities during the recent audit of City Utilities of Springfield. We are here tonight to provide you with the response from the Board of Public Utilities and City Utilities to the audit conducted by the State Auditor’s office. After my brief comments on behalf of the Board, we will be happy to answer your questions. This has been an exhaustive process for the Board and City Utilities’ staff. Members of the State Auditor’s staff first arrived at CU in mid-January, and for the past 11 months, CU staff and the Board have worked diligently to provide information that was requested and to respond to inquiries about that information. The Board has been actively engaged in this process and met on three separate occasions to review the findings and provide responses to the State Auditor. For reference, in your copy of the audit report, you will find the responses from the Board with respect to each of the findings. Before we answer your questions, there are several points I’d like to make on behalf of the Board and CU staff: First, this audit found no financial fraud or abuse at City Utilities. For example, on receipts of more than $445 million for the fiscal year ended September 2007, there was a net shortage of only $348. That speaks to the internal controls, through policies, processes and technologies, which are routine throughout the operations of the utility. This type of financial accountability is one of many reasons utility customers in Springfield pay some of the lowest electricity and natural gas rates in the entire country. Second, City Utilities plays a unique role in supporting an excellent quality of life in Springfield. That involves some judgments that must be made about the utility’s operation. One example: CU’s transit system, operated by the utility as directed by the City Charter, provides a means of transportation for not only those who choose to use public transit, but also passengers whose only means of transportation is the bus. Should the transit system receive a subsidy from elsewhere in the utility to maintain adequate service for the public? We believe it is the necessary and responsible thing to do. Third, an internal audit function has been in place at City Utilities for at least 30 years. Led by the Chief Internal Auditor, this function provides consultation on bestpractices for internal controls to the Board, senior management and departments throughout the utility. The General Manager and the Board believe this function is critical to the effective operation of the utility. In fact, some issues noted in the audit report were identified and addressed by our internal audit staff prior to the commencement of the state audit. Fourth, I want to stress that the Board and the CU staff are committed to doing everything reasonable to make the utility stronger tomorrow than it is today. To that end, we will carefully consider each of the audit recommendations. We expect CU staff to report back to the Board periodically on the progress we’ve made in responding to each of them. Let me conclude by saying that the entire Board believes CU is an exemplary community-owned utility that provides the most critical of services to its many customers. This utility is staffed by men and women who are committed to the highest professional standards. As members of the Board, we have complete confidence in their abilities to do what needs to be done, and to do it in the right way. " |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities of Springfield will be sending line crews to the Carthage, MO area to assist with power restoration efforts. A mutual-aid response for available utility crews was requested due to the significant number of customers without power. At this time CU crews are assigned to assist Carthage Water and Electric. “In January, cooperation from nearby utility companies was crucial to our customers’ service being restored,” said John Twitty, CU General Manager. “If the opportunity to help our neighbors during a time of crisis is needed, that is what we as a company will always try to do.” |
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Springfield, Missouri—The possibility of a significant amount of freezing precipitation moving into the Springfield area this weekend has prompted City Utilities of Springfield to place additional utility and contract crews on stand-by. Any crews that may be dispatched to Springfield will be in addition to City Utilities and contract crews already in place. “We will be monitoring the weather conditions throughout the weekend and be prepared to respond with equipment and personnel as needed,” said John Twitty, CU General Manager. “Significant restoration work and upgrades were done throughout our system following January’s event, but we can never fully anticipate what a storm will bring and how it will impact our system.” Customers are reminded of these safety tips to follow in the event of a power outage: To report an outage call City Utilities of Springfield at 863-9000 |
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Springfield, Missouri—Friday, December 7, 2007, will be the last run of the “Center City Loop” connecting First Friday events in the downtown and Commercial Street areas. The service, currently available on the first Friday of a month, has been a partnership of the Commercial Club of Springfield and City Utilities’ Transit Services. The six-month pilot project, concluding this month, will help to determine the need for a fixed transit route between Commercial Street and Park Central. Those using the shuttle service will ride for free during the pilot project and may board at any corner stop of the loop. Stops will be made every 15 minutes between 6:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Four lots will offer free parking that evening: the public parking lot at North Campbell and Pacific, the Cox North parking lot at Jefferson & Division, Greene County public parking at Campbell and Scott, or the CU main office lot near Jefferson & Scott. From the intersection of Commercial and Jefferson the looping route will travel: Additional information about City Utilities Transit services is available at the cu website: |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities of Springfield is seeking the help of its electric customers as they prepare to implement a new High Volume Call Answering (HVCA) system. "During the January ice storm, we found that many customers' phone numbers did not match the service address for their home in our computer system," said John Twitty, CU General Manager. "To have a customers' phone number match accurately to their service address can help us restore power much more effectively if severe weather causes an extended outage." Beginning Monday, December 3, over 90,000 electric customers will receive a brochure asking them to verify the following account information: Electric customers are asked to update their contact and account information by one of three methods: CU has contracted with Twenty First Century Communications to provide High Volume Call Answering Services (HVCA). Updated information received from customers will be entered into databases for use the event of outages. The High Volume Call Answering system is expected to be in service by spring 2008. Additional information regarding the HVCA and its implementation will be available as the in-service date approaches. |
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Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: • Watershed Committee of the Ozarks – 2008 Operating Budget: Accepted the 2008 Operating Budget. The Watershed Committee is partially funded and managed through City Utilities of Springfield. Total amount funded for 2008, from all participating agencies, is $305,000. Additionally the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Board of Public Utilities officers for 2008: (Effective November 30, 2007) Transit: Natural Gas Distribution: Water Distribution & Supply: Electric Transmission & Distribution: Energy Management & Conservation: |
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“CU Community is committed to serving members of our community,” said Greg Snyder, Vice President and CFO of the credit union. “Participating in the Art in Public Places program gives us the chance to support our local artists, which is such an exciting opportunity for us.” On Saturday, December 8th, after the Downtown Christmas parade, stop by the credit union for the opening reception of the exhibit and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy holiday treats, and experience beautiful artwork. The reception will be held from 2:30 – 4:30 pm, is FREE and open to the public. The exhibit will remain open until Monday, January 7th, 2008. About CU Community: CU Community Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution that has partnered with CU employees, those that utilize CU’s services, and those that live or work in Greene and Christian counties for over 73 years to provide solutions for their every financial season. CU Community serves over 5,500 members and manages over $50 million in assets. To learn more about CU Community Credit Union, visit mycucommunity.com. |
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Springfield, Missouri—On Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 22, CU Transit Services will operate routes on a holiday schedule. Transit Services will offer hourly bus service using routes and schedules normally operated nightly and on Sundays. Service will begin at the Park Central transfer facility at 8:10 a.m., with the last trip leaving the transfer facility at 5:10 p.m. Access Express bus service will be available from 8:10 a.m. until 5:10 p.m. on November 22. Normal daily routes for Transit Services will resume Friday, November 23, at 6 a.m. For more information, call CU Transit Services at 831-8782, or visit www.cityutilities.net The City Utilities main office at 301 E. Central, and all other facilities, will be closed in observance of Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 22, and Friday, November 23. Customers wishing to make payments may use the payment drop boxes located at 301 E. Central, or any authorized payment location. In the event of an outage or emergency, customers should call City Utilities at 863-9000. |
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Today the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Transit: Natural Gas Prices: · • Current cash price is $6.08/Dth vs. $6.07/Dth last year, which is less than a 1 percent increase. Last month’s cash price was $5.04/Dth. Water Supply & Distribution: Electric Transmission & Distribution: Energy Management & Conservation: |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities of Springfield is reminding customers’ that now is the time to trim trees and remove any deadwood that might cause electrical problems in the event of winter storms. A demonstration of proper tree trimming methods, recommended distances from power lines, and a discussion of issues associated with tree trimming will take place at 1 p.m., Thursday, October 18, near the intersection of Catalpa and Leaning Tree. Representatives from City Utilities’ Tree Management Department and CU’s tree trimming contractor, Asplundh, will be available. Additional information on proper clearances, tree planting and basic electrical safety information can be found at www.cityutilities.net or by calling 863-9000. Directions: |
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IMAGINE A DAY WITH ZERO TRAFFIC FATALITIES!
More than 43,000 people were killed on America’s roadways last year, 1,096 in 2006 in Missouri alone. To help reduce those numbers, the local groups listed above would like to recognize the seventh annual “Put The Brakes on Fatalities Day” in partnership with more than 40 other transportation and safety organizations, federal agencies, and corporations nationwide. Taking place October 10, 2007, this public awareness program aims to help Americans learn how to keep themselves and their loved ones from becoming part of traffic fatality statistics. October was selected because it is the most dangerous month on the roads: on October 9, 1999, 209 people were killed on America’s roadways, 79% more than the 117 who die on an average day. In 2005, a person was injured in a police-reported crash every 12 seconds, and someone was killed every 12 minutes. The leading cause of death for persons of every age from 2 through 33 years old is deaths and injuries resulting from motor vehicle crashes. The good news is that by taking pro-active steps, the public can greatly reduce their odds of becoming a statistic. First and foremost, drive as if your life depends on it. Driving defensively, obeying the posted speed limits, slowing down in bad weather, construction zones, school zones and not drinking and driving are how drivers can reduce their chances of being in a crash. Put The Brakes On Fatalities Day promotes:Safer driving behaviors. If ALL passenger vehicle occupants over age 4 wore safety belts, an additional 6,081 lives could have been saved in 2003. Another troubling statistic is that an average of one alcohol-related fatality occurs every 31 minutes. Alcohol is involved in 40% of all fatal crashes. Imagine this: 47 of those 117 people killed every day in traffic crashes could be saved this October 10 if all drivers did not drink and drive. Safer driving environments. Safer vehicles. For more traffic safety tips and information, log on to the Put The Brakes On Fatalities Day web site at www.brakesonfatalities.org. |
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Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: · Electric Fuel Adjustment Factor (October 2007 – March 2008): Additionally, the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Transit: City Utilities Transit Services Fares
Natural Gas Distribution: Water Distribution & Supply: Electric Transmission & Distribution: Telecommunications and Operations Technology: Energy Management & Conservation: |
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Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: · 2008 Annual Operation Plan & Budget: Accepted the 2008 Operation Plan & Budget. The 2008 Budget, not including SW2, is $479.2 million. This item will have first and second readings at the September 24 City Council meeting. Additionally the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Transit: |
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Springfield, Missouri—The Missouri Supreme Court has denied the Sierra Club’s latest appeal of a Missouri Department of Natural Resources air permit issued for City Utilities’ Southwest Power Station Unit 2. The Sierra Club may file a petition for a review with the United States Supreme Court within 90 days. Funding for Southwest Power Station Unit 2, currently under construction, was approved by Springfield voters in 2006. “We had confidence in the permitting process and the review by the Department of Natural Resources. |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities customers have set record usage levels for electricity and water during this period of extreme temperatures. CU customers used a record 802 megawatts of electricity on Wednesday afternoon, August 15. This breaks the previous record of 801 megawatts that had been established July 19, 2006. Water customers used a record 59.41 million gallons of water on Monday, August 13, 2007. The previous record had been 52.47 million gallons, in July of 1999. Springfield’s water supply storage is at 89 % today, compared to last year’s storage level of 64 %. “Our customers can feel confident that we are committed to providing reliable electric service to our customers,” said Scott Miller – Associate General Manager, Electric Supply. “We have the ability to generate enough electricity locally to keep our customers supplied with power, even on high-demand days like we’re experiencing.” |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities Transit Services will discontinue transportation to the cooling centers at 9:00 p.m. tonight. Those who have received transportation to any of the cooling shelters will receive transportation until 9:00 p.m. Transit services will be offered to cooling shelters again in the event another Excessive Heat Warning is issued. For additional transit information, visit our website or call CU Transit Services at 831-8782. |
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Springfield, Missouri—City Utilities Transit Services is providing free transportation to the cooling shelters located at the OTC campus, the Salvation Army Center and Downtown YMCA. This service will be provided during regular hours of operation for CU Transit Services and continue through the Excessive Heat Warning that has been issued by the Health Department. Individuals boarding the bus for this service will need to inform the driver that they are seeking transportation to a cooling center. Hours of operation for CU Transit Services are listed below:
For additional transit information, visit our website or call CU Transit Services at 831-8782 |
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Springfield, Missouri— The Air Quality Control Division of the Springfield-Greene County Health Department has forecast Friday, August 3, 2007, as an “Orange” or, unhealthy day, for sensitive health groups. City Utilities Transit Services will offer reduced bus fares on days when the Air Quality Index (AQI) falls into the Unhealthy level for Sensitive Groups (USG) category. The AQI level is determined by the Springfield-Greene County Health Department. Bus rates on “Orange” or unhealthy days are: For additional transit information, visit our website or call CU Transit Services at 831-8782 |
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The service, currently available only on the first Friday of the month, is a partnership of The Commercial Club of Springfield and City Utilities’ Transit Services. The six-month pilot project will help to determine the need for a fixed transit route between Commercial Street and Park Central. Riders will be asked to participate in a survey to determine the need for a “Center City Loop” linking a variety of events and activities to available parking. Last month 144 riders took advantage of the park-and-ride convenience. Those using the shuttle service will ride for free during the pilot project and may board at any corner stop of the loop. Stops will be made every 15 minutes between 6:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Five lots will be available for parking that evening; the public parking lot at North Campbell and Pacific, the Cox North parking lot at Jefferson & Division, Greene County public parking at Campbell and Scott, the CU main office parking lot near Jefferson & Scott, or the parking lot of the main library at Jefferson and Central. From the intersection of Commercial and Jefferson the looping route will travel: |
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Springfield, Missouri— Over 750 participants in the 16th annual Kitchen 5k Fun Run / Walk, held on May 12, 2007, raised a record $17,702 for children’s programs at The Kitchen. “The people of the Ozarks have shown once again, how much they truly care about the well-being of the children affected by homelessness” said Bill Stalnaker, CEO of The Kitchen. In 2006, 785 children were housed or benefited directly from the programs supported by donations through events like The Kitchen 5k Fun Run / Walk. The programs are offered throughout the year, but experience a surge in use during the school year. These funds will enable The Kitchen to better assist the children. The Kitchen is a non-profit organization that provides shelter, food, medical care, counseling and job training skills for the economically disadvantaged. Over the past sixteen years more than $117,000 has been raised through The Kitchen 5K Fun Run / Walk. Major sponsors for this year’s event included City Utilities of Springfield, CU Community Credit Union, St. John’s Health System, Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, Cox Health, Christian Health Care, Great Southern Bank and the Assemblies of God Run/Walk Team. The 17th Annual Kitchen 5k Fun Run / Walk will be held May 10, 2008. |
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2008 CU Operating Budget Springfield, Missouri— The Board of Public Utilities will hold several meetings, which will include a public hearing, to discuss the 2008 Operating Budget for City Utilities of Springfield. Meetings will be held as follows: · Special Board Meeting – Monday, August 6, 2007 C. Frank Knox Board Room – 301 E. Central, 3:00 p.m. · Public hearing and joint study session of the Board of Public Utilities and Springfield City Council CU Training Center, Tuesday, August 14, 2007, 5:30 p.m. Public comment session will begin at 5:30 p.m. Those wishing to speak will be asked to sign in, and limit comments to budgetary issues with a time limit of five minutes per person. Copies of the proposed City Utilities’ 2008 Operating Plan, which includes the 2008 – 2012 Long Range Outlook, are available for viewing at the Springfield public libraries. City Utilities of Springfield is governed by the Board of Public Utilities, which is appointed by Springfield City Council. |
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Today the Board of Public Utilities approved the following resolutions: 1. Transit Coordination Plan: Adoption of a plan to better coordinate transit services in the area for low income, elderly and disabled residents. The plan assesses existing services and needs, identifies gaps in service and will help to prioritize strategies for implementation of proposals. The plan is required for all transit providers and is in response to the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient, Transportation, Equity Act: A legacy for Users. (SAFETEA-LU) passed by Congress in August of 2005. 2. Natural Gas Prepay Transactions: Authorizes City Utilities to enter into a 20 - year contract with the Tennergy Corporation, and other municipal utilities, to purchase natural gas at a discounted rate for customers. A minimum savings of 50 cents, and up to 70 cents per dekatherm is expected. Additionally the Board of Public Utilities was advised of the following: Transit: Water Distribution & Supply: |
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Springfield, Missouri—Representatives of Osmose Utilities Services, Inc. are nearing the half-way point of the comprehensive assessment of Springfield’s electric transmission and distribution system. The assessment is to determine any remaining damage from the January ice storm and also will provide a thorough report of additional complete technical data for utility pole locations. There have been no unexpected findings on the system. On average, assessments of this magnitude may find over 10% of the utility poles on a system to have some type of defect. To date, this assessment has shown that fewer than 5% of the utility poles on Springfield’s system have defects. Osmose has over 20 people performing the assessment and they are currently working in the southeast portion of the City Utilities service territory. During these assessments, Osmose staff performs pole-to-pole inspections of the electric system. This requires accessing customers’ back and side-yard easements in addition to street and highway City Utilities maintains 1,951 miles of electric line with 80,000 utility poles throughout the service area to distribute power. |
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Springfield, MO, July 17, 2007 – CU Community Credit Union is working with Springfield area Girl Scouts to collect phone books for a unique recycling program called “Project Pet Litter.”
Quick Facts: 1. The Girl Scouts receive .05 per book collected from Purina; funds raised will be used for service projects, group outings or camping supplies. 2. For every 666.66 books collected, 1 ton of waste is saved from being placed in the landfill. Please contact Jenny Reynolds at 865.3912 or jreynolds@cupowerline.org for more information. |
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Springfield, Missouri— In a recently released 2007 Utility Bill Comparison for Selected Cities, conducted by Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), Springfield’s average monthly residential utility bill was the lowest of 25 participating cities. The combined utility bills for 1000 kWh of electricity, 200 therms of natural gas, 15 ccf of water, and 15 ccf of wastewater service represents an average, total customer bill for these services. The prices are based on rates in effect on January 1, 2007.
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