A review of the recent developments in public utility law and regulation. Recent changes in Kentucky statutes affecting the operation of water utilities, with special emphasis on House Bill 84, will be discussed. Recent Public Service Commission’s decisions that affect water utilities and personnel and organizational changes at the Public Service Commission will also be examined. An update on new Public Service Commission initiatives will also be provided.
The principal provisions of the Open Records Act and Open Meetings Act are reviewed. Handling a request for information under the Open Records Act is discussed. The effect of the Open Meetings Act on meetings of the board of water district commissioners is also discussed.
A review of the provisions of Chapter 74 involving the creation, management, operation and dissolution of water districts. Other statutory provisions, such as the Whistle Blowers Act, Claims against Local Government Act, Bidding Requirements provision of KRS Chapter 424 are also discussed
Presentation on the history of the Public Service Commission’s regulation of municipal utilities. Special emphasis is placed on recent Commission decisions regarding various aspects of municipal utility transactions with water districts and water associations, including the extent of Commission jurisdiction over municipal utilities, procedures for municipal rate filings, and the Commission’s authority to revise terms of existing contracts for service. Presenter will also discuss the use of Commission jurisdiction as a sword in contract negotiations.
Presentation focuses on the issues that wholesale water providers and purchasers should consider when negotiating water supply contracts to avoid unnecessary litigation and operation and administrative problems.
A discussion of regulatory process from varying perspectives. Public Service Commission Staff and Water District officials will discuss their experience with the utility regulatory process, problems that they have encountered, and possible approaches to address those problems. Members of the audience are encouraged to share their experiences and opinions.