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WATER UTILITY
ANNUAL REPORT 2024
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TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY ANNUAL REPORT
APRIL 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
About the Water Utility Commission ...................................................................... 1
Executive Summary ................................................................................................ 4
Water Resources ..................................................................................................... 6
Engineering and Planning .................................................................................... 13
Capital Projects .................................................................................................... 14
Customer Service .................................................................................................. 20
Water Conservation .............................................................................................. 22
Operations & Maintenance .................................................................................. 25
Water Quality ........................................................................................................ 30
Backflow Prevention ............................................................................................ 31
Security & Emergency Response .......................................................................... 32
Financial Highlights ............................................................................................... 33
Appendices
A. Static Groundwater Levels
B. Capital Improvement Program
C. Utility Statistics
D. Asset Inventory
E. Acronyms and Glossary
1
ABOUT THE WATER UTILITY COMMISSION
The Oro Valley Water Utility Commission is appointed by the Oro Valley Mayor and Council
(Mayor and Council). The Mayor and Council have jurisdiction over rates, fees and water
management issues. In March of 1996, the Mayor and Council created the Oro Valley Water
Utility Commission (commission) to act as their advisory body. Please refer to the Town Water
Code, Article 15-4, on the Town website at http://www.codepublishing.com/AZ/OroValley/
The Commission is composed of seven members that shall serve terms of three years. The
Commissioners are selected to give a balanced representation of residential and
commercial/turf interests served by the Utility.
The primary responsibility of the Commission is to review and make recommendations on Oro
Valley Water Utility topics that require Mayor and Council action. These topics may include
water system development, long-term water resource planning, rate adjustments, five-year
capital improvement program, state and federal legislation regarding water related issues,
expansion of service areas and water acquisitions. The commission also supports community
programs and education related to the Oro Valley Water Utility.
The commission welcomes the public to attend its meetings. The commission meets the second
Monday of each month, unless otherwise posted. All meetings are noticed on the Town's
website at https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/Government/Departments/Town-Clerk/Meetings-and-
Agendas
In 2023, the Commission held 8 Water Utility Commission meetings. Work performed or
reviewed by the commission in 2023 included:
Meeting Date Action Item
January 9, 2023 Election of Commission Chair and Vice Chair
Appointments to Subcommittees
February 13, 2023 Recommendation on Water Rates
Update and Discussion on the Colorado River
March 13, 2023 Recommendation for acceptance of the Annual Report
May 5, 2023 Field Trip – Tour of Tres Rios Water Reclamation Facility
May 8, 2023 Update and Discussion on Water Resource Usage
August 14, 2023 Conservation program by Conservation Specialist
September 11, 2023 Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Arizona Water Bank
Firming Agreement
November 13, 2023 Update and Discussion on OV Path Forward 10-Year Action Plan
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Additional notable items on commission agendas in 2023 include:
Review and comment on groundwater metrics and wellfield condition
Quarterly updates on Water Utility Financials, Water Operations, Capital Projects and
Water Resource Utilization
Notable issues planned for commission review or action in 2024 include:
Recommendation for acceptance of the Annual Report
Recommendation for acceptance of the Water Rates
Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System project (NWRRDS) review
Review of Conservation and Water Quality programs
Water resource usage
Capital Improvement Projects
Utility financial review
Field trips/guest speakers TBD
In addition to the regular commission meetings, there are meetings conducted by standing
subcommittees. The 2023 subcommittee membership is as follows:
Finance Subcommittee
Tom Marek, Chair
Niranjan Vescio
Kay Lantow
Water Resources and Conservation Subcommittee:
Alan Forrest, Chair
Greg Hitt
Patricia Olson
COMMITTEE REPORTS
In accordance with the Town’s Water code Article 15-4-5 Committee Reports, the Commission
shall render to the Town Council an annual report on or before April 1st. This report is prepared
by the Utility staff and reviewed by the commission for completeness and accuracy.
The Water Utility staff would like to thank the Commission for their detailed review and
contributions to ensure the accuracy of this annual report.
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Niranjan Vescio,
Commission Vice- Chair
Gregg Hitt,
Commissioner
Patricia Olson,
Commissioner
Kay Lantow,
Commissioner David Atler,
Commissioner
WATER UTILITY COMMISSION 2024
Alan Forrest,
Commission Chair
Tom Marek,
Commissioner
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This section summarizes the activities of the Water Utility Commission, the Utility’s operations,
capital projects, water resource portfolio, and financial management.
WATER RESOURCES
The Utility operates two water systems, the Oro Valley Water Service Area, and the Countryside
Water Service Area. There are three sources of water supply: groundwater, Central Arizona
Project water, and reclaimed water. Groundwater is pumped from the wells in the aquifer
below the water service areas, blended with the Central Arizona Project water and then
delivered through the potable drinking water distribution system. Reclaimed water is for non-
potable uses, and is predominantly used for irrigation on golf courses, parks and athletic fields.
The potable drinking water system is completely isolated from the reclaimed water system.
TABLE 1
Total Water Produced in 2023 (Acre-Feet)
Groundwater CAP Water Reclaimed
Water
Total Water
Produced
4,925 2,573 1,880 9,378
The Utility uses Central Arizona Project water in the following three ways:
1) Aquifer recharge and recovery for water delivery to the potable water systems in
both Oro Valley and Countryside.
2) Aquifer recharge for replacement credit for water pumped from the Utility’s wells.
3) Aquifer recharge in nearby recharge facilities for future use.
As of December 31, 2023, the Utility has accrued an estimated 34,493 acre-feet of long-term
storage credits and has a Groundwater Allowance Account balance of approximately 19,500
acre-feet.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
At the end of 2023, the Utility had 21,300 customer connections serving a population of
approximately 49,000 residents in the service area. Utility water sales revenues totaled $14.5
million for fiscal year 2022-23.
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WATER CONSERVATION
The Utility encourages water conservation by informing and educating customers. Specifically,
in 2023, the following conservation efforts were accomplished:
Second anniversary of the quarterly newsletter Behind the Meter.
Over 9,000 automated alerts sent with water savings of over 12 million gallons.
60% of leaks confirmed by customers on WaterSmart were related to irrigation.
WATER UTILITY OPERATIONS
Water Operations are a 24-hour per day, seven days per week operation. Staff performed
routine maintenance on all production and distribution facilities. In 2023, Water Operations
completed the following:
Security upgrades at two main facilities which included badge access, automatic gate
actuators and security cameras.
Staff cross training – internal and external employees.
Relocated operations staff to single facility.
Began SCADA software upgrade to Ignition in partnership with ITD.
Partnership with Water Engineering on efficient and timely plan review.
WATER QUALITY
In 2023, the Utility received 2,661 analytical results for required water sampling and operational
data. The water system is in compliance with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
and the United States Environmental Protection Agency requirements.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The Utility continues to be fiscally sound. The water rate study for FY 2024/25 resulted in a
recommendation to increase the base rates and commodity rates for potable water customers.
These proposed changes will result in a potable water monthly increase of $3.65 per month (or
7.9%), compared to last year, for a customer with a 5/8-inch meter using 7,000 gallons per
month. Customers with a 5/8-inch meter represent 87 percent of the total customer base and
include residential, commercial and irrigation classifications with the majority being residential.
Additionally, the proposed changes also include an increase to the potable groundwater
preservation fee of 10-cents per 1,000 gallons of water consumption. There are no proposed
changes to the reclaimed base or commodity rates or fees. The proposed changes will be
presented to the Town Council in June 2024 and, if adopted, the new potable water base and
commodity rates and potable groundwater preservation fee would become effective in July
2024.
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All current water rates, fees and charges including impact fees are available to view on the
Town website at https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/government/departments/water-utility
INTRODUCTION
This report provides information to the Mayor and Council and the public on the annual work of
the Water Utility Commission, and updated information on the Oro Valley Water Utility (Utility).
The report outlines how the divisions within the Utility work together to provide the
community with reliable and safe water supplies. Through partnerships with other professional
water agencies, the Utility maintains water quality standards, protects the groundwater supply,
and conducts long-term planning for water resources and capital infrastructure. The report
details how the Utility maintains financial health through analyzing and initiating responsible
water rates and through cost recovery for new development. This report provides information
and details of activities for calendar year (CY) 2023 with additional financial information
reported for the fiscal year (FY) ending June 30, 2023.
WATER RESOURCES
The primary function of the Utility is the production and efficient use of available water
resources that meet or exceed water quality standards. To ensure long-term sustainability, the
Utility works closely with regional water providers, state agencies and the development
community in planning for future water resource requirements. Utility staff closely monitors all
water resources in the Utility’s water portfolio. The water portfolio includes groundwater,
Central Arizona Project (CAP) water entitlement, reclaimed water entitlement, long-term
storage credits and groundwater allowance account credits.
Current Water Supply includes groundwater, CAP water and reclaimed water. The Utility
operates in two separate water service areas: the Oro Valley Water Service Area (OVWSA) and
the Countryside Water Service Area (CSWSA). The CSWSA was acquired by the Town with the
acquisition of the private water companies in 1996. This small satellite service area is located
approximately two miles from the western boundary of the Town. Data from these two service
areas is combined for regulatory reporting purposes. The following table provides the water
production in acre feet (AF) for both service areas in 2023.
TABLE 2
Total Water Production in 2023
Water Resources OVWSA CSWSA Totals
Groundwater 4,523 AF 402 AF 4,925 AF
CAP Water 2,364 AF 209 AF 2,573 AF
Reclaimed Water 1,880 AF ---- 1,880 AF
Total 8,767 AF 611 AF 9,378 AF
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Figure 1 shows total water production in each service area from 1999 through 2023. The
components of total water production include 1) groundwater production 2) CAP water
utilization and 3) reclaimed water utilization. The graph depicts the increase in overall water
production for 2023 as compared to 2022 as well as the dramatic decrease in groundwater
utilization since 2005.
FIGURE 1
Groundwater remains the primary potable water resource for the Utility. In 2023, the Utility’s
18 groundwater production wells produced 53 percent of the Utility’s total water production.
Table 3 highlights the production capacity in all wells, the storage capacity in all reservoirs and
the average rise or decline in static water levels for the wells in both service areas at the end of
CY 2023.
TABLE 3
Groundwater
Production Capacity
Storage
Capacity
(Gallons)
Average
Water Level
+Rise/-Decline
OVWSA 11.9MGD 10.4 million -.27 Feet
CSWSA 2.2 MGD .90 million -1.08 Feet
On an individual basis, groundwater level changes in 2023 for active wells varied from a rise of
7.74 feet to a decline of 7.74 feet (It is correct that the rise and decline are the same value).
Details on static groundwater levels for individual wells may be found in Appendix A.
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Central Arizona Project (CAP) Water is the Utility’s only other potable water resource. In 2023,
the Utility’s four CAP wheeling locations delivered 27 percent of the Utility’s total water
production. The Utility delivers its entire annual CAP entitlement of 10,305 acre feet to several
recharge facilities in the Tucson Active Management Area. In 2023, the Utility purchased the
entire entitlement for use as follows:
1) Aquifer recharge and recovery for water delivery to the potable water systems in
both Oro Valley and Countryside.
2) Aquifer recharge for replacement credit for water pumped from the Utility’s wells.
3) Aquifer recharge in nearby recharge facilities for future use.
When Oro Valley’s CAP water is recharged and recovered for delivery, it is first delivered to
Tucson Water’s Central Avra Valley Storage and Recovery Project. The recharged CAP water is
then recovered and delivered (wheeled) through the Tucson Water system to various
connection points in the Oro Valley system for delivery to Utility customers.
The Utility has an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Tucson Water enabling the delivery
of CAP water to customers through four connections to the Tucson Water system. There are
three CAP water connection points in the OVWSA. One is located on Vista del Sol, north of
Naranja Drive, a second connection is on Calle Buena Vista, south of Calle Concordia and a
third is located near Oracle and Hardy. CAP water is also delivered to the CSWSA at a
connection located on Camino de Oeste, just north of Linda Vista Blvd. The Utility delivered
2,573 acre-feet of CAP water in 2023 thus reducing its reliance on groundwater. CAP water
deliveries and locations are shown in Table 4.
TABLE 4
CAP Water Deliveries in 2023
Locations Delivery
Vista Del Sol (OVWSA) 1,472 AF
Calle Buena Vista (OVWSA) 445 AF
Oracle & Hardy (OVWSA) 448 AF
Camino De Oeste (CSWSA) 208 AF
Total 2,573 AF
In calendar year 2017, the Town of Oro Valley, Metro Water and the Town of Marana began
collaboration on the development of a unique IGA to construct a future project known as the
Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System (NWRRDS). The IGA was unanimously
approved by each governing body in March of 2017. This agreement provides another means
for the Town to deliver CAP water to the Utility’s service areas. The project is estimated to be
completed in FY 2027 and will allow for the annual delivery of up to an additional 4,000 acre
feet of recovered CAP water.
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The reservoirs on the Colorado River supply water to the CAP and other water projects in the
lower basin states of Arizona, California, and Nevada. In addition, these reservoirs provide
required water deliveries to Mexico. This Colorado River water storage decline is due to the
extended drought the basin has experienced for over 24 years as a result of decreased
precipitation and snowpack. This has decreased flow in the river creating significant water level
declines in Lake Mead and Lake Powell, resulting in historically low reservoir levels. Over the
last 24 years, water demands have exceeded available inflows for supply driving reservoir
levels lower.
Reservoir levels determine supply availability in accordance with shortage sharing guidelines
established in 2007 and amended in 2019. Beginning in 2018, The Arizona Department of
Water Resources (ADWR) and CAP staff collaborated with CAP water users and the Lower
Colorado River Basin states to finalize the Lower Basin States Drought Contingency Plan
(LBDCP). The LBDCP modifies the 2007 shortage sharing guidelines so that curtailments in CAP
deliveries happen sooner and are larger. The goal of this plan is to close the gap between the
over-allocation of the river’s natural replenishment capability and water deliveries, thus
leaving enough water in Lake Mead to avoid drastic cuts to priority subcontract holders like
Municipal and Industrial users. The LBDCP was approved by Governor Doug Ducey on January
31, 2019, and was later approved by the Federal Legislature and went into effect on January 1,
2020.
The LBDCP specifies what the curtailments are to each of the Lower Basin States depending on
the water surface elevation of Lake Mead on January 1st of the given year.
In 2023 the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) determined that beginning in January of 2024, the
BOR would be declared a Tier 1 water shortage for many Colorado River Water users including
Arizona. A Tier 1 water shortage reduces Arizona’s Colorado River allocation by 30% but has no
effect on Oro Valley’s CAP allocation.
The BOR has requested that all Colorado River water users create a new plan to leave even
more water in the river. Six of the seven Colorado River Basin states submitted a consensus
framework plan for Colorado River water cuts that met the goals set forth by the BOR.
Unfortunately, the plan failed to gain the support of California, seen as critical to making
meaningful cutbacks since California has the largest apportionment of the river. California
released its own plan which minimizes their obligation to leave water in the river while vastly
increasing what Arizona must cut. At the time of this report’s creation, it is unclear how the
BOR will view any plan to save the river that doesn’t have the support of all the states.
The BOR needs to take decisive action. All Colorado River water users will need to commit to
reductions. The sooner the river’s demand is reduced to a sustainable level the sooner the river
will be protected, benefiting everyone. For 2024, Oro Valley will not see any reduction in
Colorado River Water deliveries, but we can expect a reduction in deliveries in future years.
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Fortunately, Southern Arizona water professionals have been planning for these challenging
times for over 2 decades.
Figure 2 shows the relationship between the CAP priority order, Lake Mead water surface
elevation and the LBDCP. The area highlighted in yellow represents the current Tier 1 water
shortage which results in a 512 acre-ft reduction in CAP deliveries for calendar year 2024.
FIGURE 2
The State of Arizona offers a level of protection from CAP curtailments for priority CAP users
through the creation of the Arizona Water Banking Authority. The AWBA has been storing
water underground for municipal and industrial water users for decades to guard against the
impacts of CAP delivery curtailments. Over 600,000 acre feet of water have been stored
underground by the AWBA in the Tucson Active Management Area. This stored water will be
made available to municipal water providers to mitigate curtailments of CAP water deliveries to
municipal water users. In addition to the AWBA storing water, the Central Arizona Groundwater
Replenishment District (CAGRD) has stored water for the future to replenish groundwater.
The Utility also continues to store a portion of its CAP water to increase its balance of long-term
storage credits. This water is also available to mitigate curtailments of CAP water deliveries.
The above action plans combined with a diverse water resource portfolio reduces the chances
of a water resource shortage when CAP water delivery curtailments occur. In addition, reducing
demands through an increased focus on the efficient use of water resources will help to
preserve water supplies for future uses.
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Reclaimed Water is produced from wastewater effluent from the sanitary sewer system and
then treated for irrigation and other non-potable uses. In 2023, the Utility’s reclaimed system
produced 20 percent of the Utility’s total water production.
Oro Valley owns all the effluent produced by its customers. The Utility has an IGA with Tucson
Water to deliver reclaimed water to the OVWSA through their facility at Thornydale and
Tangerine. From that location, the Utility independently operates the transmission and water
distribution system that delivers the reclaimed water to reclaimed water customers in the
OVWSA. No reclaimed water is delivered to the CSWSA.
The Utility supplies reclaimed water for the irrigation of four golf courses, athletic fields at one
elementary school and Naranja Park. In 2023, 1,880 acre-feet of reclaimed water was delivered.
REGULATORY
The ADWR requires the Water Utility to replace all the groundwater pumped from wells owned
and operated by the Utility. To comply with this requirement, every acre foot of groundwater
pumped is replaced through annual aquifer recharge utilizing CAP water. The replacement of
pumped groundwater can happen anywhere within the Tucson Active Management Area. Due
to the lack of Utility-owned aquifer recharge facilities, the Utility recharges the aquifer outside
of the service area to meet this requirement. Long-term storage credits can also be used to
replace the groundwater pumped to maintain compliance with ADWR requirements.
Figure 3 graphically shows how the Utility utilized water resources in 2023 as described in this
WATER RESOURCES section.
FIGURE 3
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The Designation of Assured Water Supply (DAWS) issued by the ADWR requires compliance
with the Fourth Management Plan in the Tucson Active Management Area. In 2023, the Utility
was in compliance with all requirements under the DAWS and fully expects to meet all
requirements in 2024. The ADWR requires the Utility to submit water system information and
water usage data in an annual report. The information provided includes service area
boundaries, total water use, population, gallons per capita per day, recharge, recovery and
system water loss.
Pursuant to the DAWS, the Utility has a right to pump a maximum of 13,384 acre-feet per year
of groundwater.
Long-Term Storage Credits are earned when water is recharged and stored underground for
more than one year. In 2023, the Utility purchased 10,305 acre-feet of CAP water for delivery to
recharge facilities. Of that amount, approximately 2,807 acre-feet were not used for direct
delivery or annual recovery; therefore, increasing the long-term storage credit balance. The
water stored will be saved for future use. At the end of 2023, the Utility calculated that it had
approximately 34,493 acre-feet in long-term storage credits.
Table 5 shows the estimated water storage summary for the end of the 2023 calendar year. The
ADWR will adjust the storage balance to account for recharge basin evaporation and aquifer
losses. The final balance will be provided by the ADWR in October of 2024.
TABLE 5
Water Storage Summary for Calendar Year 2022
(Acre Feet)
Groundwater
Storage Facility
2023 CAP Delivery to
Storage Facility
2023 CAP Recovery
from Storage Facility
Storage Balance
12/31/23
Kai Farms 4,000 2,000 21,260
Lower Santa Cruz 2,805 2,200 9,575
Pima Mine Road --- --- 2,868
Central Avra Valley 3,500 3,298 660
Effluent Storage --- --- 138
Total 10,305 7,498 34,493
Note: The 2023 CAP recovery from storage facility column (3rd column) represents the aggregate of CAP water
either delivered to customers or used to replace the groundwater that was pumped. The ADWR will adjust
the storage balance to account for recharge basin evaporation and aquifer losses. The Storage balances
provided are an approximation.
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The Groundwater Allowance Account identifies the amount of groundwater that can be
pumped, if desired, and still be considered exempt from the state's requirement for
replenishment in the Tucson Active Management Area. In general, the balance in the account
may be used for any groundwater pumped from a well that has a five-year average annual
decline greater than four feet or water pumped from a well that is not permitted as a recovery
well. In 2023, the Utility did not use any credits from the Groundwater Allowance Account. All
the Utility’s wells are permitted as recovery wells; therefore, long-term storage credits were
used to meet the replenishment requirements instead of using credits in the Groundwater
Allowance Account. The balance in the Groundwater Allowance Account at the end of 2023 was
19,230 acre-feet.
Engineering and Planning
The engineering and Planning Division is responsible for planning and managing the design,
construction and inspection of new water infrastructure for the Town of Oro Valley, as well as
providing engineering support to the Water Operations group.
Engineering and Planning is also responsible for managing and maintaining a Geographic
Information System (GIS) database on all existing and new water system infrastructure. Maps
produced by GIS staff facilitate Utility operations, planning and engineering. Additionally,
Engineering has spearheaded the design and parameters for the Water Utility’s asset
management system (Cartegraph) and documenting the lifecycle of our water assets.
Engineering is continuing to develop standardization across all the design work and
expectations for future deliverables.
In 2023, the New Development Section within the Engineering and Planning Division completed
the following:
Reviewed and approved water improvement plans for 10 construction projects
Approved plans and completed 11 as-built plans
CAPITAL PROJECTS
The Engineering and Planning Division manages the design and construction of capital projects
identified in the Capital Improvement Program and annual operating budget. These projects are
designed to improve efficiencies to existing facilities and improve service levels. Some of the
notable capital projects are described next.
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Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System (NWRRDS) Blending Pipeline project:
This project is designed to blend the “D” Zone water with our incoming NWRRDS Partnered
water that is delivered from the Lower Santa Cruz Recharge Facility to the OVWU service
area.
NWRRDS Shannon Road Forebay: This project is designed as a forebay reservoir between
the lower Santa Cruz Water Recovery Area and the Oro Valley Service Area. Once
completed, this water infrastructure will allow the Utility to deliver up-to an additional
4,000-acre feet of Central Arizona Project (CAP) water per year to the Oro Valley Water
Utility customers. This infrastructure will also aid in preserving our groundwater resource.
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A contractor installs
an 8-inch Ductile
Iron Pipe (DIP) &
adjacent electrical
conduit as part of
the Nakoma Well
Discharge line into
the OVWU system
pressure vessel
above-ground
piping and
instrumentation.
The well
rehabilitation
contractor prepares
to install a column
pipe. Perpetual well
maintenance is an
important part of the
Utility’s Capital
Improvement
Program and ensures
a reliable water
system for the
community.
Well E-2 Rehabilitation: Well rehabilitation work includes pre and post video logs to assess
the well’s condition along with down-hole survey. This work is followed by brushing and
bailing of the well (or alternative method of well casing cleaning), repair of the well casing as
required, header piping replacement and the installation of new oilers and pads if needed.
Well E-2 will require a liner installation from 16” to 12” to stabilize well casing and formation
around the well. Additionally, motor rehabilitation work will be completed prior to placing
the well back into service.
Nakoma Sky Well Design and off-site electrical work: Nakoma Sky offsite electrical and
discharge piping is currently in the construction stage with La Posada. Design of this well site
facility is 100 percent and scheduled for late FY 2023-2024/ 2024-2025
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A contractor prepares
to replace a non-ASME
certified pressure vessel
with a new ASME
certified pressure
vessel. Work included
new pressure vessel
above-ground piping
and instrumentation.
Steam Pump Well Design, Control Panel, and Off-Site Electrical Work: The Steam Pump
Station Control Panel, off site electrical and design work have been completed. Construction
documents and specifications are in preparation for the bidding process, which will take
place in early July 2024. Construction for this project has been scheduled for FY 2024-2025.
Pressure Vessel Replacements for Wells and Boosters: The purpose of this multi-year
Pressure Vessel Replacement program is to upgrade the Utility’s existing pressure tanks to
meet current safety requirements based on the American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(ASME) standards. These standards are for structural design and integrity of pressure vessels.
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Construction
Inspectors Ray
Ochoa and Ray
Carrasco reference
the plans as they
inspect the water
line.
Construction Inspectors
Ray Ochoa, Ray
Carrasco, and
Engineering Division
Manager Lee Jacobs
tracking the progress of
the project.
Palisades Redundancy 8-inch water main: This project adds additional reliability to the
Palisades service area. Design was completed in FY 2022/23. Construction has been set for
FY 2023-2024 and officially started in January 2024.
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La Cañada Design of “E” to “F”; and “E” to “G” Zone Booster Design: This project is to equip
the La Cañada Reservoir with two new booster stations. The design for this project is
complete. The Notice to Proceed for construction was issued for January 2024. The first year
of work included the design and construction of the electrical improvements necessary to
power the future booster stations at La Cañada. This will ultimately help the Utility with
moving water to “F” and “G” zones.
Countryside Wheeling Station Upgrade: This project will increase the wheeling capacity
from Tucson Water to Oro Valley Water’s remote water service area known as
“Countryside”. The site will be equipped with telemetry to monitor and control flows into
Countryside to supplement our groundwater well production. An additional 200-gallons per
minute capacity will be added to the current capacity of 100-gallons per mile. Construction
will include a security wall, telemetry for valve flow control and remote flow meter
monitoring. Project is expected to be constructed in FY 2023/24.
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The contractor prepares to replace a non-ASME certified pressure vessel with a new ASME certified pressure
vessel. Work included new pressure vessel above-ground piping and instrumentation.
Rancho Vistoso Booster Upgrades: The purpose of this project is to improve our pumps and
motors to a more efficient system for delivering water in our closed zone. This project is
consistent with our goals of reducing energy consumption without sacrificing production and
delivery of water.
Big Wash Reservoir Relining 200: The purpose of this project is to prolong the life of our
existing infrastructure and to maintain its integrity. The Utility has contracted with an
industrial coater to blast and expose any structural issues that may exist and to repair if
necessary and recoat prior to April 2024.
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CUSTOMER SERVICE
Customer Service is an integral element of the Utility, providing a full range of support to its
customers. The Utility’s 21,300 metered connections serve a combined population of
approximately 49,000 for both water service areas. Customer Service responsibilities include
preparing the monthly billing, processing cash receipts, preparing daily deposits, and processing
new meter applications. Staff also manages new and closed accounts as customers move in and
out of the water service areas.
Customer Service staff produced over 306,432 bills in FY 2022/23, generating $14,539,682 in
water sales revenue. This revenue does not include sales taxes, groundwater preservation fees,
or service fees. Water sales revenue by user classification is illustrated in Figure 2.
FIGURE 2
The Utility has an IGA with Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department to
provide their monthly sewer billing. In addition, the Utility provides monthly and quarterly
billing for the Town’s Stormwater Utility. In FY 2022/23, the Utility processed a total of
$31,237,131 in payments for the Utility and the other two organizations as follows:
Oro Valley Water Utility $ 19,708,384
Pima County Wastewater Reclamation $ 10,051,961
Town of Oro Valley Stormwater Utility $ 1,476,786
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Total payments handled by the Oro Valley Water Utility are in excess of the water sales billed
because the payments processed include sales taxes, groundwater preservation fees, security
deposits and other service fees charged by the Utility.
Of the above payments processed, payments made by credit card or electronically totaled
$30.9 million, or 99 percent. These payment methods are more convenient for water utility
customers and customer service staff. Payments are posted to customer accounts in a more
timely and efficient manner. In addition, this reduces data entry errors and increases time
available for staff to perform other job functions.
The Water Utility’s Customer Information System (CIS) implemented last year has been a huge
success with customers and staff. In addition to CIS, this software includes a mobile application
for field staff and a customer portal. The customer portal allows customers to manage their
account, review consumption information, make payments with several payment options, and a
variety of other self-service features. In FY 2022/23, 8,200 or 39% of Water Utility customers
registered for the customer portal.
WaterSmart is a customer portal that provides customers the ability to monitor their own
water use on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis. They can also set their individual water
use thresholds that will enable the technology to send them high water use alerts. Customer
Service staff use the Utility’s customer kiosk to assist customers with registering in WaterSmart
and to teach them how to establish water use thresholds.
The major accomplishments by Customer Service staff in FY 2022/23 include the following:
Produced over 306,432 water bills.
Registered 2,500 customer portal accounts for a total of 8,200.
Processed 186 new meter installation applications.
Utility Statistics may be found in Appendix C.
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WATER CONSERVATION
Water Conservation is a key component of the Utility’s overall water resource management
efforts. The Water Conservation Program serves customers through community outreach and
education. It engages the public with a variety of tools and information to emphasize long-term
support for more efficient water use.
The Utility continually looks for new ways to engage and communicate important water
information to our customers. Spring of 2022 marked the first edition of our quarterly
newsletter Behind the Meter. This publication is mailed as a billing insert to all customers and
highlights information on our water resources, services, and programs offered. It is also
available electronically on the WaterSmart customer portal and our website.
Additional Publications
Virtual Welcome Guide
Water Wisdom Video Series
Community Outreach and Education Programs
Participation in the WaterSmart Program continues to increase. This online program provides
customers with a self-service tool to view their water use at any time. Early leak detection and
high use notifications save water, reduce water waste and reduce the shock of high water bills.
Although the program is available to all customers, Single Family Residential (SFR) and Irrigation
accounts show the highest average registration rate at 34% over the last year.
There are over 7,200 registered accounts on the WaterSmart Program
Approximately 8,500 automated alerts were sent during CY 2023 with water savings of
over 12 million gallons.
45% of leaks confirmed by customers on the WaterSmart program were related to
irrigation.
There were over 3,900 visits to the WaterSmart customer portal in CY 2023.
The Water Audit Program is a free educational and technical assistance service offered to
residential, HOA and commercial customers. Audits are typically conducted onsite and used to
evaluate potential water savings for both indoor and outdoor water use. The water use
information available through smart meters allows staff to help many of our customers over
the phone. Irrigation is one of the most common leak problems reported by customers. Leaks
related to irrigation may not be obvious to the customer. Confusion with irrigation timer
settings and over watering are significant contributors to high water use complaints.
23
Customers saved just over 500,000 gallons
participating in our Water Audit program
(2023 audits).
35% of participants had pools.
Over 2,350 audits have been completed
since 2003.
Break Down of Leaks Reported to WaterSmart
Youth Education Programs
Oro Valley Water Utility partnered with the Environmental Education Exchange in 2013 to
develop and manage our Conservation Kids Program (grades 1-3). In 2022, we added Discover
Our Water Program to serve grades 4-5. For the current school year to date we have reached
over 1,100 students within Oro Valley and adjacent service areas.
Irrigation
Toilet
Unspecificed
Pool
PipesOther
LEAK TYPES REPORTED
CY 2023
24
Future Focus Areas
The Utility continually looks for ways to expand opportunities for public education
and advocacy regarding water conservation.
Increase customer participation in the WaterSmart Program across all meter classes
through targeted outreach efforts.
Improve our understanding of key water use patterns by leveraging the data from our
Automated Metering Infrastructure.
Develop water use benchmarks that are useful and practical to Utility customers as
determined by evaluation models.
25
Staff installing a
flowmeter at Glover
Reservoir (left). Staff
replacing a check
valve on a booster
pump discharge at
Vistoso Reclaimed
Plant (right).
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
All Production, Distribution and Meter Operations Personnel are certified operators licensed by
the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
All operations personnel work together to address water system problems. On-call staff
respond to water system problems 24 hours per day, seven days per week. This on-call staffing
utilizes a tiered-level after-hours response protocol in accordance with the existing Emergency
Response Plan.
Water Production
Personnel are responsible for the operation and maintenance of wells, booster pumps, and
reservoirs on the potable water system. In addition, Production personnel are responsible for
the booster pumps, metering stations, and the reservoir on the reclaimed water system. These
systems are monitored with the use of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
technology that is managed by the Water Control Systems Department. Production staff
perform routine mechanical maintenance, and assist with electrical maintenance at 45
production sites. They uphold operational balance for CAP water delivery to the potable
systems, maintain 21 disinfection injection pumps and disinfection residuals at injection points
on the potable and reclaimed water delivery systems. Production staff also perform an annual
groundwater level survey of static water levels in all wells.
The following are major activities and accomplishments of Water Production personnel in 2023:
New Operations Supervisor lateral from Distribution
Operator III promoted from Distribution
Implementation of new SCADA system
Cleaned and inspected 6 potable water reservoirs
Vertical turbine motor preventive maintenance program
Completed 3,228 potable and reclaimed water facility site checks
Measured and recorded static water levels of 32 active and deactivated wells quarterly
Performed 13 water storage tank overflows to achieve consistent production of
exceptional water quality to our customers
Through the provision of continued training, diverse skillsets, and veteran operator
knowledge; over 10 intricate projects/major repairs were able to be completed in house
26
Using the ADC crew,
sites, such as the one
pictured above, are
cleaned and maintained
on a regular schedule
basis. Utilizing this
program saves the Utility
money, resulting in lower
Utility rates for our
customers.
ADC Program
Water Operations implemented the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) Inmate Work
Program in August of 2022. This program’s labor force completes the general facility
maintenance, which provides Water Utility staff the time to perform advanced skilled tasks
required to maintain a robust preventative maintenance program.
Below are the major accomplishments of the ADC Program in 2023:
8 operators continuing ADC training-process for working with or around inmates.
Cleaned 10 water facilities for vegetation abatement.
Installed new sample stations at active well sites.
Restored site perimeter areas eroded from water runoff using rip rap and back fill
materials.
Water Distribution
Distribution Personnel are responsible for routine maintenance of all water distribution system
components. This work includes the repair and installation of water mains and services,
isolation valves, fire hydrants, pressure reducing valves, drain valve assemblies, and air relief
valves. Water Distribution Operators additionally perform a variety of internal tasks that go
beyond typical Water Utility maintenance. The tasks performed may include erosion repairs,
grading, paving, concrete work, landscaping and various types of demolition, construction, and
fabrication related activities. Staff also collaborate with the Water Engineering Staff to provide
27
The Utility’s Water
distribution staff
installed a new 2”
bypass PRV at
Lambert booster
station to assist with
pressure sustaining
in the surrounding
neighborhood.
Distribution staff
worked with
Engineering and
Contractors at the
Community Center/
La Cañada main
replacement project.
accurate as-built data for the GIS system, which ensures that assets remain current and are
accurately depicted on system maps. Additionally, assets are tracked and updated using the
Town’s Asset Management Program. Distribution staff regularly establish and maintain
professional relationships with contractors and vendors. These professional relationships are
especially important when responding to emergencies, such as large water main breaks or
other major repairs. The Utility’s Distribution staff provides assistance and guidance to
residential customers who have questions or concerns about their water.
The following are the major activities and accomplishments of Water Distribution staff in 2023:
Responded to 192 customer inquiries including after-hour call outs and emergencies.
Exercised 1447 water valves and replaced 2 isolation valves.
Repaired 52 fire hydrants and replaced 3 fire hydrants.
Performed 172 inspections on 43 pressure reducing valves (PRV) and performed repairs on 27
PRVs.
Responded to and repaired 5 water mainline breaks.
Repaired 3 DVAs.
Cut and plugged water main installed between residential lots.
Operator II promoted to Operator III.
Promoted two staff members from Operator I to Operator II.
Performed 65 Air relief valve (ARV) repairs.
An inventory of all facility assets may be found in Appendix D.
Meter Operations
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is an integral part of the Oro Valley Water system. The
advanced metering technology transformed how the Utility gathers water use data, how staff
collaborates with customers, and improved water data management practices. The AMI system
has improved customer service by providing historical, on-site water usage data to the
customer to assist with the explanation of a problem, such as a water leak. This saves
customers water, money, and promotes continued water conservation efforts. Utility staff has
28
Meter Operations and
Water Distribution staff
repairing a damaged
AMS (left).
Meter Operations staff
testing a 6-inch meter
for accuracy at La
Cholla Airpark (right).
increased their technical knowledge and skills to provide this improved customer service
feature. Staff uses analytical and critical thinking skills to analyze and troubleshoot complex
metering problems and technical issues within the AMI system. Staff uses AMI network
software, Meter Data Management software, field collection and meter reading hardware, GIS
software and data collection software to manage water usage data and develop solutions to
solve complex problems and mitigate water use issues that impact Utility customers.
The use of AMI technology also increases operational efficiency by eliminating the need for
labor- intensive manual meter reading, as well as reducing travel time. By increasing
operational efficiencies, meter operations staff can focus their time and capabilities on
oversight of the AMI system and related software. This includes proactively monitoring and
maintaining the AMI system, providing instruction and insight for electronic equipment
installations, programming, maintenance, and repairs. Meter Operations Staff members focus
their efforts on improving operational efficiencies to perform additional water system
preventive maintenance and commercial meter testing.
Meter staff bluestakes underground water mains for all new and existing construction projects
throughout the Town’s water service area. Arizona law requires that all underground utilities be
bluestaked prior to any excavation to ensure the safety and welfare of the community by
protecting underground facilities from damage.
An inventory of all facility assets may be found in Appendix D.
The following are major activities and accomplishments of Water Meter personnel in 2023:
Installed 157 meters for new developments.
Replaced an estimate of 1000 warranty residential meters.
Repaired 22 angle meter stops.
Completed 10,192 AZ811 utility locate requests.
3 Water Utility Operator I promoted to Utility Operator II.
4 new employees trained.
Worked with Sensus to collaborate with Metering Services Inc. to start a warranty meter
changeout program.
Working with Metron Farnier to test the feasibility of cellular endpoint residential and
hydrant meters
29
Water Control
Systems staff
calibrating and
programming
new
instrumentation
(left).
Water Control
System staff
performing
preventative
maintenance on
electrical controls
(left).
Water Control Systems
Personnel are responsible for the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system,
facility instrumentation and controls, facility electrical equipment, telemetry radio systems, and
programmable logic controllers (PLC).
Key functions of Water Control Systems include troubleshooting control system and electrical
issues, equipment calibration, instrumentation and control upgrades for wells, pressure
reducing valves, boosters, reservoirs, facility system security, and preventative maintenance for
all instrumentation and electrical equipment.
Staff works with Water Utility Engineering Staff and Contractors reviewing capital projects and
is responsible for all new instrumentation and control process start-ups for facilities.
The following are major activities and accomplishments of Water Control systems personnel in
2023:
Project Manager for permanent generator, automatic transfer switch, and main
electrical disconnect at Countryside reservoir and booster facility.
Upgraded air compressor controls at two booster stations.
Upgraded water level instrumentation at two reservoirs.
Upgraded Reclaimed SCADA radio system..
Programmed four flow meter upgrades.
New preventative maintenance program for electrical, instrumentation, and controls.
Reviewed engineering plans for two booster sites.
Upgraded instrumentation at four well rehabilitation projects.
30
WATER QUALITY
Water quality sampling and testing is essential to provide safe and reliable water. The Town’s
water system is in full compliance with all State and Federal regulations. The Utility is regulated
by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and works closely with the ADEQ
to ensure all Federal and State standards are met. The Water Utility provides all required water
quality testing results to the ADEQ as well. The website for the ADEQ is www.azdeq.gov.
In 2023, the Utility received 2,661 analytical results for required water sampling and
operational data for the potable water system, and met requirements of the US Environmental
Protection Agency’s (EPA), Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Each year, the Utility collects
hundreds of water samples from 15 point of entry sites, including groundwater wells,
reservoirs, and pumping stations. The Utility also retrieves samples from 58 sampling stations
as required by the ADEQ. These stations are located in neighborhoods that are specifically
selected to represent the water quality delivered to the customers throughout the water
distribution system. The Utility has an additional 101 sampling stations that can be used during
emergencies, or to meet future testing requirements. Every three years, water samples are
taken from 50 private residences within the water service areas to test for lead and copper. The
most recent sampling was completed in June of 2022. The results met the EPA’s SDWA rules for
lead and copper. The Utility provides all water quality testing results to the ADEQ.
During 2023, the Utility collected 696 compliance samples for analysis of Total Coliform and E.
Coli bacteria, in which the samples resulted negative for these contaminants. This is a direct
result of a successful disinfection program through wellhead chlorination, effective system
monitoring, proficient sampling methods and routine maintenance.
Testing includes water hardness, which is a measurement of the concentration of calcium and
magnesium. During 2023, the hardness levels in Oro Valley ranged from 2.1 to 15.8 grains per
gallon (36 ppm to 270 ppm). The Utility’s water hardness ranges from soft to very hard with the
majority of the water testing at moderately hard to hard. The water hardness varies depending
on the volume of CAP water that is being blended at any given time in a specific pressure zone.
In 2023, due to proposed regulatory changes and requirements, the Utility continued
preparation to phase in five proposed and pending EPA regulations related to monitoring rules:
Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 2023-2025
Revised Long-Term Lead and Copper Rule October 2024
Perchlorate TBD
Strontium TBD
Chromium Total/Hexavalent Chromium TBD
In 2024, the Utility will continue to phase in sampling and monitoring of new contaminants in
accordance with SDWA regulatory requirements.
31
Staff repairing and
testing Town of Oro
Valley backflow
prevention assembly.
(left).
Staff collecting
compliance water
samples (left).
The Utility produced a 2022 Consumer Confidence Report for each water system in April of
2023. These reports are available electronically. The Utility notified customers via mail that the
Consumer Confidence Report could be accessed on the Town’s website. The 2023 Consumer
Confidence Reports will be completed and available to consumers by June of 2024.
In addition to sampling the potable water system, water quality samples are routinely taken on
the reclaimed water system for chlorine levels and turbidity to assure compliance with
regulatory standards. All the ADEQ standards and regulations for reclaimed water were met in
2023.
In 2024 the Water Quality section of the Utility will continue implementation of SAMS Water.
SAMS Water is a scheduling monitoring and analysis software tool that helps water systems
comply with federal and state drinking water regulations. SAMS Water is an additional module
added to the Cross Connection Module we are currently using.
BACKFLOW PREVENTION
Backflow prevention is an important component of water quality designed to protect the public
water system. The purpose of this program is to keep the water supply safe from contaminants
that could be introduced into the distribution system through backflow, back siphoning or back
pressure from customer’s plumbing systems or internal processes.
The Backflow Prevention Program is administered in accordance with the Town of Oro Valley
Ordinance (O) 07-21, the ADEQ Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) section R18-4-215, and the
guidelines of the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross Connection Control and
Hydraulic Research.
There are 1,559 backflow prevention assemblies in the program. The following are major
activities and accomplishments of Water Quality personnel in 2023:
Tested 223 backflow assemblies
Repaired 15 in-ground and construction water backflow prevention assemblies
Issued 63 permits for new and replacement backflow prevention assemblies
Implemented new cross connection control program software
32
SECURITY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Under current federal guidelines, Water Operations personnel are considered first responders.
Though primarily mandated by state rules with public health responsibilities (Arizona
Administrative Code Title 18), Water Operators also have a public safety responsibility relevant
to the water systems they operate which includes support of firefighting tasks. Any water
system security situations also directly involve water operations along with the Oro Valley
Police Department as a first response action.
In 2020, Utility personnel, with the assistance of a security consultant were mainly focused on
finalizing and submitting the Risk and Resilience Assessment Certifications for the America’s
Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) of 2018. Certifications for the Oro Valley Water System and
the Countryside Water System were submitted, and confirmation received, before the due date
of 12/31/2020. Selective training will be conducted in Spring of 2024, and Water Utility staff will
participate in an Emergency Simulation Tabletop Exercise. The training will be conducted in
accordance with the guidelines from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency
Management Agency, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The Utility
continues to update the Emergency Response Plan and Business Continuity Plan on an annual
basis and will continue to mitigate the elements defined in the vulnerability assessments, as
well as those identified through the course of business.
Security features which include perimeter fencing, security walls, warning signage, motion
sensors, and cameras at all active production facilities were inspected to maintain integrity.
Hydrants throughout the system are protected by security locking systems.
The Utility is kept abreast of local, regional, and national security issues by the Water
Information Sharing and Analysis Center (WaterISAC). WaterISAC has established secure and
close contact with partners in government to access sensitive and classified security
information. WaterISAC maintains two-way communication with the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security, especially its National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration
Center, the FBI, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, State Intelligence Fusion centers,
and other Federal and State agencies.
The Utility is also a member of the Arizona Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network
(AZWARN). Members of AZWARN agree to provide aid to other member utilities in the event of
an emergency.
33
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The Utility is financially sound and continues to manage its revenues, control expenses, and
reduce debt. The Water Utility’s outstanding revenue bonds have a rating of “AA+” from
Standard and Poor’s, and “AA” from Fitch Ratings. Ratings criteria include stable economic
base, sufficient water supply for current and long-term needs, a manageable capital
improvement plan, timely rate increases, maintaining adequate debt service coverage and cash
reserve balances.
Revenues and Expenses
The Utility’s revenue consists of potable and reclaimed water sales, groundwater preservation
fees, miscellaneous service fees and charges, water development impact fees, and interest
income. The Utility has two funds:
The Operating Fund is the primary fund for the Utility. Costs for the administration,
operations, existing system improvements and debt service are managed in this fund. The
sources of revenue are water sales, service-related charges, and Groundwater Preservation
Fees (GPF). The GPF funds are dedicated to paying for debt or capital costs related to
renewable water resources, renewable water supplies and costs to wheel CAP water to the
Town.
The Water Resource and System Development Impact Fee Fund (WRSDIF) provides
funding for expansion related projects for new growth, development of renewable sources
of water supply and infrastructure required for delivery of those resources. The source of
revenue for this fund is impact fees collected at the time water meters are purchased.
34
Table 6 below illustrates actual to budgeted revenues for Fiscal Year 2022/23 for the Operating
Fund and Water Resource and System Development Impact Fee Fund:
TABLE 6
Revenues from water sales were below budget due to higher-than-average rainfall during FY
2022/23. Impact fee revenues were above budget due to higher than anticipated meter sales.
Table 7 below illustrates actual expenses for the Operating Fund and Water Resource and System
Development Impact Fee Fund compared to budgeted expenses (excluding depreciation and
amortization) for FY 2022/23:
TABLE 7
Operations & Maintenance was below budget attributed to cost savings in various divisions.
Capital outlay was slightly below budget due to projects carried forward to the next fiscal year.
35
Outstanding Debt
Table 8 is a summary of the outstanding debt (principal only) and the annual debt service
payments (principal and interest) for all funds within the Utility:
TABLE 8
New debt issuance in the amount of $20 million Is requested in the FY 2024/25 budget.
Repayment would be with funds from Groundwater Preservation Fees and Water Resources and
System Development Impact Fees. Loan proceeds will be used for the Northwest Recharge,
Recovery, and Delivery System (NWRRDS) project. Water Rates
The functions and duties of the commission include annually reviewing and developing
recommendations for water revenue requirements, water rates and fee structures. The
commission evaluates staff recommendations based on an annual water rates analysis to
ensure the recommendations meet Town policies and bond covenants. The Utility bases its
financial analysis on the American Water Works Association Cash Needs Approach.
The water rate study for FY 2024/25 resulted in a recommendation to increase the base rates
and commodity rates for potable water customers as well as an increase to the potable
groundwater preservation fee (GPF). These proposed changes will result in a potable water
monthly increase of $3.65 per month (or 7.9%) for a customer with a 5/8-inch meter using
7,000 gallons per month, as compared to last year. Customers with a 5/8-inch meter represent
87 percent of the total customer base and include residential, commercial and irrigation
classifications with the majority being residential. GPF is proposed to increase from $0.90 cents
to $1.00 cents per 1,000 gallons used per month. The proposed changes will be presented to
the Town Council on June 5, 2024, and if adopted, the new potable water and potable
groundwater preservation fee changes would become effective in July 2024.
All current water rates, fees and charges including impact fees are available to view on the
Town website at https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/government/departments/water-utility
36
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX A
STATIC GROUNDWATER LEVELS
37
A-1
STATIC GROUNDWATER LEVELS
The following table lists all production wells, the amount of groundwater pumped and the change
in depth to groundwater between January of 2022 and 2023 for both the Countryside and Oro
Valley Main Water Service areas. To provide context the amount of groundwater pumped and
the change in depth to groundwater is also shown for years 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017, 2022, and
2023.
Drawdowns not highlighted indicate an aquifer drawdown while drawdowns highlighted in green
indicate aquifer recovery.
38
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX B
PROPOSED FIVE - YEAR
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
B-1 Projects funded by the Operating Fund
B-2 NWRRDS Projects funded by the Groundwater Preservation Fee
B-2 NWRRDS Projects funded by the Water Resource and System
Development Impact Fee Fund
B-3 Miscellaneous Growth-Related Projects funded by the Water
Resources and System Development Impact Fee Fund
39
B-1
40
B-2
41
B-3
42
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX C
UTILITY STATISTICS
43
-
500,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,500,000,000
2,000,000,000
2021 2022 2023
1,628,277,447 1,572,556,926 1,604,816,175
Groundwater Deliveries in Gallons
820,000,000
830,000,000
840,000,000
850,000,000
860,000,000
870,000,000
880,000,000
2021 2022 2023
870,273,075
851,357,424
838,414,623
CAP Water Deliveries in Gallons
500,000,000
550,000,000
600,000,000
650,000,000
2021 2022 2023
628,129,939
567,345,693
612,599,880
Reclaimed Water Deliveries in Gallons
C-1
UTILITY STATISTICS
44
-
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
2021 2022 2023
20,966 21,114 21,300
Customer Base
-
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
2021 2022 2023
6,446 7,095 7,300
WaterSmart - Registered Accounts
-
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
9,000
2021 2022 2023
-
5,700
8,200
Customer Service Portal - Registered Accounts
C-2
45
C-3
-
10
20
30
40
50
2021 2022 2023
50
37 34
Water Conservation Audits
-
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
2021 2022 2023
2,704
4,732
2,661
Water Quality Samples
46
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX D
ASSET INVENTORY
47
D-1
48
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX E
ACRONYMS AND GLOSSARY
49
E-1
ACRONYMS
ADEQ Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
ADWR Arizona Department of Water Resources
AF Acre Feet
AMI Advanced Metering Infrastructure
AWBA Arizona Water Banking Authority
AZWARN Arizona Water and Wastewater Agency Response Network
CAGRD Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District
CAP Central Arizona Project
CAVSRP Central Avra Valley Storage and Recovery Project
CSWSA Countryside Water Service Area
CY Calendar Year
DAWS Designation of Assured Water Supply
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
ERP Emergency Response Plan
FY Fiscal Year
GIS Geographic Information System
GPF Groundwater Preservation Fee
IGA Intergovernmental Agreement
MGD Million Gallons per Day
NWRRDS Northwest Recharge and Recovery Delivery System
OVWSA Oro Valley Water Service Area
PDEQ Pima County Department of Environmental Quality
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
WRSDIF Water Resource and System Development Impact Fee Fund
50
E-2
GLOSSARY
Acre Foot – The volume of water necessary to cover an area of one acre to the depth of one
foot, 43,560 cubic feet. One acre foot is equal to 325,851 US gallons.
Arizona Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network – AzWARN is a statewide mutual
assistance program between water and wastewater utilities. This volunteer-based network allows
utilities to help one another in times of emergency when the resources of a utility are
overwhelmed. The foundation of the network is a signed mutual aid agreement between all
participating utilities.
Aquifer – An underground layer of water-bearing permeable rock or unconsolidated materials
(gravel, sand, or silt) from which groundwater can be extracted using a water well.
Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District (CAGRD) – It was created in 1993 to replenish
(or recharge) the amount of groundwater pumped or delivered to its members which exceeds their
pumping limitations using any water source available except groundwater.
Central Avra Valley Storage and Recovery Project – An approved Underground Storage Facility
operated by Tucson Water located in the Tucson Active Management Area located approximately
one mile west of Sandario Road and just south of Mile Wide Road, in the Avra Valley, Pima County,
Arizona.
Colorado River Basin – The drainage basin of the Colorado River is located in the southwestern
United States and northwest Mexico. The 1,450 mile river drains an expansive, arid watershed that
encompasses parts of six U.S. (Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and California) and
two Mexican states (Sonora and Baja). Rising in the central Rocky Mountains in the U.S., the river
flows generally southwest across the Colorado Plateau and through the Grand Canyon before
reaching Lake Mead on the Arizona–Nevada line, where it turns south toward the international
border at Yuma, Arizona. After entering Mexico, the Colorado approaches the large Colorado River
Delta where it naturally empties into the Gulf of California.
Effluent – Generally refers to wastewater that is treated and discharged to a natural water course.
Oro Valley Water Utility’s effluent is treated at facilities owned and operated by Pima County. This
treated wastewater effluent is the source of Oro Valley’s reclaimed water.
Five Year Capital Improvement Plan – A long-term plan for development of water related projects
to develop and deliver water supply to our community. It includes existing system improvements
and expansion related projects to meet future demands.
Groundwater – The water located in an aquifer beneath earth's surface in soil pore spaces and in
the fractures of rock formations. The depth at which soil pore spaces or fractures and voids in rock
become completely saturated with water is called the water table.
51
E-3
Groundwater Extinguishment Credits – Credits that are generated when a grandfathered
groundwater right is extinguished or retired and never used again. The credits are issued as a
certificate from the Arizona Department of Water Resources. Ownership of the credits can be
transferred from the owner to another entity within the same Active Management Area.
Kai Farms – An approved Groundwater Savings Facility located at a farm near Redrock, Arizona that
uses CAP water for irrigation.
Lake Powell – A water storage reservoir on the Colorado River near Page, Arizona with a capacity of
24.3 million acre feet. Glen Canyon Dam forms the lake and provides hydro-electric power.
Lake Mead – The largest water storage reservoir in the United States with a capacity of 25.9 million
acre feet. It is located on the Colorado River about 24 miles southeast of Las Vegas, Nevada. Hoover
Dam forms the lake and provides hydro-electric power.
Long-Term Groundwater Storage Credit – A credit for storing CAP water or wastewater effluent
that is accrued when this water is delivered to and recharged into an approved underground water
storage facility. Once the water is recharged and stored and a deduction is taken for losses to the
aquifer, it becomes a credit that can be used in the future either by direct delivery or used as credits
to replace groundwater pumped from recovery wells.
Lower Santa Cruz Replenishment Project – An approved Underground Storage Facility operated by
the Central Arizona Project located in the Tucson Active Management Area near Marana, Arizona.
Northwest Recharge Recovery and Delivery System – Partnership project between The Town of
Oro Valley, Metro Water and Town of Marana to plan, design, construct and operate a recovery
and delivery system to facilitate the delivery of recovered CAP water from the Lower Santa Cruz
Recharge Project and the Avra Valley Recharge Project to each partner’s respective service area.
Pima Mine Road Recharge Project – An approved Underground Storage Facility operated by the
Central Arizona Project located in the Tucson Active Management Area near Sahuarita, Arizona.
Recharge – The replenishment of an aquifer's groundwater. An aquifer recharges water that
percolates into the ground. Recharge takes advantage of water supplies available now and stores
them for future use. Recharge also allows the slow introduction of new water supplies into our
drinking water system by blending the new source with existing groundwater.
Tucson Active Management Area – One of five Active Management Areas in Arizona established
under the 1980 Groundwater Code to manage groundwater usage through the Assured Water
Supply Program.
Turbidity – Turbidity is the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid caused by large numbers of individual
particles that are generally invisible to the naked eye similar to smoke in air.
Zones – A “zone”, or “pressure zone” is defined as the area bounded by both a lower and upper
elevation. Water service areas with elevation changes establish pressure zones to ensure that all
customer’s water pressure is within a prescribed pressure range regardless of the customers’
service elevation.