HomeMy WebLinkAboutAnnual Reports - 4/1/2025
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TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY ANNUAL REPORT
APRIL 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
ABOUT THE WATER UTILITY COMMISSION .................................................................................... 2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 5
WATER RESOURCES ........................................................................................................................ 9
ENGINEERING AND PLANNING ..................................................................................................... 17
CAPITAL PROJECTS ........................................................................................................................ 18
CUSTOMER SERVICE ...................................................................................................................... 30
WATER CONSERVATION ................................................................................................................ 32
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................... 33
WATER QUALITY............................................................................................................................ 39
BACKFLOW PREVENTION .............................................................................................................. 40
SECURITY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE ....................................................................................... 41
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ................................................................................................................ 43
APPENDICES
A. Static Ground Levels
B. Capital Improvement Program
C. Utility Statistics
D. Asset Inventory
E. Acronyms and Glossary
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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 2024, the Commission held 8 Water Utility Commission meetings and participated in one field
trip. Work performed or reviewed by the Commission in 2024 included:
Meeting Date Action Item
January 8, 2024 Election of Commission Chair and Vice Chair
Recommendation on Water Rates
February 12, 2024 Update and Discussion on the AZ Growing Water Smart Retreat
March 11, 2024 Recommendation for acceptance of the Annual Report
April 12, 2024 Field Trip – Tour of Water Utility Infrastructure
May 13, 2024 Update and Discussion on Water Resource Usage
August 12, 2024 Water Utility Quarterly Reports
September 9, 2024 Update and Discussion on OV Path Forward 10-Year Action Plan
October 14, 2024 Update and Discussion on Joint Coordination Meeting with Central
Arizona Project Staff
November 11, 2024 Update and Discussion on CAP Water Supply
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Additional notable items on Commission agendas in 2024 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 2025 include:
Recommendation for acceptance of the Annual Report
Recommendation for acceptance of the Water Rates (The Finance subcommittee will be
eliminated to allow full participation of the entire Commission)
Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System project (NWRRDS) review
Review of Conservation and Water Quality programs
Water resource usage (The Water Resources and Conservation Subcommittee will be
eliminated to allow full participation by the Commission)
Capital Improvement Projects
Utility financial review
Field trips/guest speakers TBD
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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WATER UTILITY COMMISSION 2025
NIRANJAN VESCIO
CHAIR TOM MAREK
VICE-CHAIR
GREG HITT
COMMISSIONER
JOE HORNAT
COMMISSIONER
ALAN FORREST
COMMISSIONER
MICHAEL SMEJKEL
COMMISSIONER
DAVID ATLER
COMMISSIONER
NOT
PICTURED
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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 HIGHLIGHTS
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 of golf courses, parks and athletic fields.
The potable drinking water system is completely isolated from the reclaimed water system. The
following table (Table 1) shows the total water resource utilization for each source of supply.
TABLE 1
Total Water Produced in 2024 (Acre-Feet)
Groundwater CAP Water Reclaimed
Water
Total Water
Produced
4,840 2,560 1,817 9,217
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, 2024, the Utility has accrued an estimated 37,408 acre-feet of long-term
storage credits and has a Groundwater Allowance Account balance of approximately 19,500
acre-feet.
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CUSTOMER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS
At the end of June 2024, the Utility had 21,498 customer connections serving a population of
approximately 49,000 residents in the service area. Utility water sales revenues totaled $16.2
million for fiscal year 2023-24.
WATER CONSERVATION HIGHLIGHTS
The Utility encourages water conservation by informing and educating customers. Specifically,
in 2024, the following conservation efforts were accomplished:
Third anniversary of the quarterly newsletter Behind the Meter.
Over 9,000 automated alerts sent with water savings of over 16 million gallons.
50% of leaks confirmed by customers on WaterSmart were related to irrigation.
WATER UTILITY OPERATIONS HIGHLIGHTS
Water Operations are a 24-hour per day, seven days per week operation. Staff performed
routine maintenance on all Production and Distribution facilities. In 2024, Water Operations
completed the following:
Security upgrades at water facilities which included badge access, automatic gate
actuators and security cameras.
Staff cross training – internal and external employees.
Relocated Operations staff to single facility.
Continuing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) software upgrade to
Ignition in partnership with ITD.
Monitoring pumping water levels in all wells.
WATER QUALITY HIGHLIGHTS
In 2024, the Utility received 3,441 analytical results for required water sampling and
operational data for the potable water system and met standards set by the US Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA),) pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The water systems
are in compliance with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The Utility continues to be fiscally sound. The water rate study for FY 2025/26 resulted in a
recommendation to increase the base rates and commodity rates for potable water customers.
There will be no change to the potable Groundwater Preservation Fee. These proposed
changes will result in a potable water monthly increase of $1.81 per month (or 3.6%) for a
customer with a 5/8-inch meter using 7,000 gallons per month. Customers with a 5/8-inch
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meter represent 84% of the total customer base and include residential, commercial and
irrigation classifications with the majority being residential.
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 2025 and, if adopted, the new
potable water base and commodity rates would become effective in July 2025.
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.
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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) 2024 with additional financial information
reported for the fiscal year (FY) ending June 30, 2024.
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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 monitor 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 (Table 2) provides the
water production in acre feet (AF) for both service areas in 2024.
TABLE 2
Total Water Production in 2024
Water Resources OVWSA CSWSA Totals
Groundwater 4,383 AF 457 AF 4,840 AF
CAP Water 2,443 AF 117 AF 2,560 AF
Reclaimed Water 1,817 AF ---- 1,817 AF
Total 8,643 AF 574 AF 9,217 AF
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Figure 1 shows total water production in each service area from 1999 through 2024. The
components of total water production include 1) groundwater production 2) CAP water
utilization and 3) reclaimed water utilization. The graph depicts the decrease in overall water
production for 2024 as compared to 2023 as well as the dramatic decrease in groundwater
utilization since 2005.
FIGURE 1
Groundwater remains the primary potable water resource for the Utility. In 2024, 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 2024.
TABLE 3
Groundwater
Production Capacity
Storage
Capacity
(Gallons)
Average
Water Level
+Rise/-Decline
OVWSA 11.9MGD 10.9 million -.29 Feet
CSWSA 2.2 MGD .90 million 2.28 Feet
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On an individual basis, groundwater level changes in 2024 for active wells varied from a rise of
4.33 feet to a decline of 6.09 feet. Details on static groundwater levels for individual wells may
be found in Appendix A.
Central Arizona Project (CAP) Water is the Utility’s only other potable water resource. In 2024,
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 2024, the Utility purchased the
entire allocation 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.
Oro Valley’s CAP water that is recharged and recovered for delivery, 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
2,560 acre-feet of CAP water in 2024 thus reducing its reliance on groundwater. CAP water
deliveries and locations are shown in Table 4.
TABLE 4
CAP Water Deliveries in 2024
Locations Delivery
Vista Del Sol (OVWSA) 1,522 AF
Calle Buena Vista (OVWSA) 445 AF
Oracle & Hardy (OVWSA) 443 AF
Camino De Oeste (CSWSA) 150 AF
Total 2,560 AF
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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 2026 and will allow for the annual delivery of up to an additional 4,000 acre-
feet of recovered CAP water.
The reservoirs on the Colorado River supply water to the CAP and other water projects in the
lower basin states that include Arizona, California and Nevada. Additionally, these reservoirs
provide required water deliveries to Mexico. A 27-year drought caused by reduced
precipitation and snowpack in the upper basin has significantly lowered water levels in Lake
Mead and Lake Powell. Over the past 27 years, water demand has 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.
The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) determined in 2024, that beginning in January of 2025, the
BOR would declare the same Tier 1 water shortage as it was in 2023 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.
In March of 2024 Arizona, California, and Nevada (Lower Division States) submitted to the BOR
the “Lower Basin Alternative” for the BOR to review. The Lower Basin Alternative is designed to
provide for the sustainable management of the Colorado River system and its resources under a
wide range of potential future system conditions due to ta changing climate. At the time of this
report’s creation the upper basin states have not indicated support of the Lower Division States
Lower Basin Alternative plan and it is unclear how the BOR will view any plan to save the river
that does not have the support of all the states involved.
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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 2025, Oro Valley will not see any reduction in
Colorado River Water deliveries, but we can expect a reduction in deliveries in future years.
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 2025.
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.
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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.
Reclaimed Water is produced from wastewater effluent from the sanitary sewer system which
is then treated for irrigation and other non-potable uses. In 2024, 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 18-hole golf courses, the Naranja
Park athletic fields and one elementary school athletic field. In 2024, 1,817 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.
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Figure 3 graphically shows how the Utility utilized water resources in 2024 as described in this
WATER RESOURCES section.
FIGURE 3
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 2024, the Utility
was in compliance with all requirements under the DAWS and fully expects to meet all
requirements in 2025. 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 2024, the Utility purchased 10,305 acre-feet of CAP water for delivery to
recharge facilities. Of that amount, approximately 2,500 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 2024, the Utility calculated that it had
approximately 37,408 acre-feet in long-term storage credits.
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Table 5 shows the estimated water storage summary for the end of the 2024 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 2025.
TABLE 5
Water Storage Summary for Calendar Year 2024
(Acre Feet)
Groundwater
Storage Facility
2024 CAP Delivery to
Storage Facility
2024 CAP Recovery
from Storage Facility
Storage Balance
12/31/24
Kai Farms 4,000 3,000 22,260
Lower Santa Cruz 2,805 1,838 10,542
Pima Mine Road --- --- 2,868
Central Avra Valley 3,500 2,560 1,600
Effluent Storage --- --- 138
Total 10,305 7,398 37,408
Note: The 2024 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.
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 2024 was
19,230 acre-feet.
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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, consolidating well data for dashboard on all active and non-
active wells, 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
building on existing databases to implement business intelligence and documenting the
lifecycle of our water assets. Engineering continues to develop standardization across all the
design work and expectations for future deliverables.
In 2024, 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 (CIP and New Development)
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CAPITAL PROJECTS
The Engineering and Planning Division manages the design and construction of capital projects
identified in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Annual Operating Budget. Engineering
also reviews and approves new development engineering water plans for approval and
construction. These projects are designed to improve the service and operational efficiency of
the existing system. Some of the notable capital projects are described next.
Northwest Recharge Recovery and Delivery System (NWRRDS):
The Utility’s largest CIP commitment in 2024 has been the NWRRDS project. In 2017, the
governing bodies of the Town of Oro Valley, Metro Water, and the Town of Marana
unanimously approved a 50-year Intergovernmental Agreement supporting regional water
resource stability initiatives and aquifer preservation. The agreement provides a framework for
the Town of Oro Valley, Metro Water, and the Town of Marana to partner in the design,
construction, operation, and maintenance of the partnered components of NWRRDS. Oro
Valley will also fund 100% of Oro Valley’s independent components of NWRRDS.
Figure 1 provides an image overview showing both the partnered and independent
components of the NWRRDS project.
Figure 1
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Figure 2 provides a graphical representation showing both the partnered and Independent
components of the NWRRDS projects and their respective relative timelines.
Figure 2
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NWRRDS Independent Shannon Road Forebay Reservoir and Booster Station Project: This
project was completed in 2024 and is located between the Lower Santa Cruz Aquifer recharge
project and the Oro Valley Service Area. This project is an important asset that will allow for the
delivery of up to an additional 4,000 Acre-Ft. per year of recovered Central Arizona Project
water to the Utility’s service area.
Aerial view of the Shannon Road Forebay Reservoir & Booster Station project looking southeast
towards Pusch Ridge in the Catalina Mountains
Aerial View of the Shannon Road Forebay Reservoir & Booster Station project looking north
towards the Tortolita Mountains
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Pictured above is the project in progress (left) and once completed (right) of
the Independent Groundwater Blending Main Project
NWRRDS Independent Groundwater Blending Main Project: This project was completed in
2024. This project was designed to blend some of the Utility’s service area groundwater with
the future deliveries of additional Colorado River Water by way of the NWRRDS project to the
Utility’s service area.
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View of the construction of the NWRRDS Independent Shannon Road Booster Station
Discharge Main to Naranja Rd.
NWRRDS Independent Shannon Road Booster Station Discharge Main to Naranja Rd. Project:
This project was completed in 2024. This discharge main construction project is one of two
connections from the NWRRDS Independent Shannon Road Booster Station project to Oro
Valley’s main service area.
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The image above shows the contractor staff fitting the discharge piping for one of the booster
stations.
The image above shows the conduit runs from the La Canada Booster Stations to the
control building.
La Cañada “E” to “F”; and “E” to “G” Zone Booster Station Project: The purpose of this project
is to equip the La Canada reservoir with two booster stations to deliver NWRRDS water to
pressure zones that previously were not receiving CAP water. Construction started in early 2024
and will continue through the first half of 2025.
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Well E-2 Rehabilitation Project: The Well rehabilitation work included 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. No motor rehabilitation work was needed. The submersible pump and motor
were changed from the vertical turbine.
The photo above shows the completed rehabilitated of Well E-2. Work included well
rehabilitation, new submersible pump, and discharge head
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La Posada (Formerly known as Nakoma Sky) Well Design and Off-Site Electrical Work Project:
The Nakoma Sky offsite electrical and discharge piping from well site to distribution main was
completed in 2024. Equipping of this well is slated for 2025.
Steam Pump Well Design, Control Panel, and Off-Site Electrical Work Project: The Steam Pump
Station Control Panel, off site electrical and design was completed in 2024. Equipping of this well
is slated for 2025.
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Palisades Transmission Main Extension Project: This project was completed in 2024. The
purpose of this project was to provide distribution main “looping” that aimed to improve water
quality and system reliability in an area that was limited in its water distribution capability.
The photo above shows the completed Palisades Main Extension Project
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Countryside CAP Wheeling Station Upgrade Project: This project was completed in 2024. The
purpose of this project was to increase the CAP wheeling capacity of this infrastructure. The
wheeling capacity was increased from 100 GPM to 300 GPM and is now delivering water into
our Countryside Service Area at the rate of 300 GPM.
The photo above shows the completed Countryside CAP Wheeling Station Upgrade
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The photos above show the completed Rancho Vistoso Booster
Station project
Rancho Vistoso Booster Station Upgrade Project: This project was completed in 2024. The
purpose of this project is to improve the existing pumping system to be a more efficient and
reliable pumping system for delivering water to a closed pressure zone. This project is
consistent with our goals of reducing energy consumption without sacrificing production and
delivery of water.
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The photo above shows the two Big Wash Reservoirs that were
rehabilitated.
Big Wash Reservoir Rehabilitation Project: This project was completed in 2024. The purpose of
this project is to ensure the continuous and uninterrupted service of two reservoirs located at
this site.
Reservoir #1 (200,000-gallon reservoir): The project addressed structural issues with the roof
and rafters of the 200k gallon reservoir. Additional work included a larger ventilation port,
safety rails and a larger access hatch.
Reservoir #2 (150,000-gallon reservoir): The projects addressed exterior coating issues with the
application of a new exterior coating.
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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 21,498 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 315,684 bills in FY 2023/24, generating $16,252,901 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 2023/24, the Utility processed a total of
$31,404,097 in payments for the Utility and the other two organizations as follows:
Oro Valley Water Utility $ 19,784,581
Pima County Wastewater Reclamation $ 10,098,554
Town of Oro Valley Stormwater Utility $ 1,520,962
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Total payments handled by the Oro Valley Water Utility are more than 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
$31.1 million, or 99%. 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 2023/24, 10,941 or 51% of Water Utility customers
registered for the customer portal.
WaterSmart is another customer portal that provides customers with 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 2023/24 include the following:
Produced over 315,684 water bills
Registered 2,741 customer portal accounts for a total of 10,941
Processed 198 new meter installation applications
Utility Statistics may be found in Appendix C.
32
WATER CONSERVATION
The Utility encourages water conservation by informing and educating customers. Specifically,
in 2024, the following conservation efforts were accomplished:
Third anniversary of the quarterly newsletter Behind the Meter.
Over 9,000 automated alerts sent with water savings of over 16 million gallons.
50% of leaks confirmed by customers on WaterSmart were related to irrigation.
1,235 messages received from customers on the WaterSmart Portal.
21,207 leaks were detected by WaterSmart.
386 customer-initiated leak checks using the leak diagnosis and investigation tool in
WaterSmart.
62 customers were assisted with Water Audits.
837 new customers registered with WaterSmart.
23,466 unique logins to WaterSmart.
78,472 High Use Notifications were sent to WaterSmart users.
Examples of
customer leaks
found while
assisting
customers during
water audits
33
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 2024:
Operator III promoted from Distribution.
The new Shannon Road Reservoir and Booster Site water facility now in operation.
Cleaned and inspected 6 potable water reservoirs.
Vertical turbine motor preventive maintenance program.
Completed 2,925 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
34
Staff replacing
horizontal
booster pump
(left). Staff
installing well
discharge pipe
(right).
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 2024:
8 operators continue ADC training-process for working with or around inmates.
Cleaned 10 water facilities for vegetation abatement.
Painted site walls and buildings, dug conduit trenches, and sealed cracks in paved
facilities.
35
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
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.
ADC crews maintain sites such as the one pictured to the above. Sites are
cleaned and restored on a regular schedule basis. Utilizing this program
saves the Utility money, resulting in lower Utility rates for our customers.
36
Water Distribution
staff replaced a 2”
copper service line at
Riverfront Park (left).
Water Distribution
staff relocated an Air
Release Valve (ARV)
for the Hero’s
Memorial at Naranja
Park (right).
The following are the major activities and accomplishments of Water Distribution staff in 2024:
Completed 902 service orders including after-hour call outs and emergencies.
Exercised 2,439 water system valves.
Repaired 85 fire hydrants and replaced 2 fire hydrants.
Performed 176 inspections on 43 pressure regulating valves (PRV).
Responded to and repaired 4 water mainline breaks and 4 water service line leaks.
Performed 3 Drain valve assembly (DVA) repairs.
Performed 33 Air release 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
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.
37
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 2024:
Installed 166 meters for new developments.
Replaced an estimate of 2,730 warranty residential meters.
Repaired 36 angle meter stops.
Completed 10,882 AZ811 utility locate requests.
1 Water Utility Operator I promoted to Utility Operator II.
2 new employees trained.
Worked with Sensus to collaborate with Concord Utility Services to start a warranty
meter changeout program in 2025.
Meter Operations
staff assisting
Conservation efforts
for the Sun City
Garden Club (left).
Meter Operations
staff replacing a
commercial meter
(right).
38
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
2024:
Design three station control panels at two reservoirs and booster site.
Fabrication of two station control panels at two reservoir sites.
Upgraded air compressor control at two booster stations, two reclaim valve stations.
Upgraded water level instrumentation at one reservoir, and two booster sites
Upgraded potable SCADA radio system.
Programmed two meter upgrades.
Preventative maintenance program for electrical, instrumentation, and controls.
Reviewed engineering plans for one booster site.
Upgraded instrumentation at four well rehabilitation projects
Installed uninterruptible power supplies at three reclaim valve stations, two wells and
two reservoir sites.
Water Control
Systems staff new
panel shop and
construction of PLC
panel(left).
Water Control
Systems staff testing
PLC panel power
supply(right)
39
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 2024, the Utility received 3,441 analytical results for required water sampling and
operational data for the potable water system and met US Environmental Protection Agency’s
(EPA) Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) standards. 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
standards for lead and copper. The Utility provides all water quality testing results to the ADEQ.
During 2024, 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 2024, the hardness levels in Oro Valley ranged from 2.3 to 18.1 grains per
gallon (39 ppm to 310 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 2024, 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.
40
The Utility produced a 2023 Consumer Confidence Report for each water system in April of
2024. 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 2024 Consumer
Confidence Reports will be completed and available to consumers by June of 2025.
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
2024.
In 2025 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 1,595 backflow prevention assemblies in the program. The following are major
activities and accomplishments of Water Quality personnel in 2024:
Tested 244 backflow assemblies
Repaired 14 in-ground and construction water backflow prevention assemblies
Issued 39 permits for new and replacement backflow prevention assemblies
Continue to use newly implemented cross connection control program software
41
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 Fall of 2025, 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.
Staff repairing and
testing Town of
Oro Valley
backflow
prevention
assembly.
(left). Staff
collecting
compliance water
samples (right).
42
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.
43
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.
44
Table 6 below illustrates actual budgeted revenues for Fiscal Year 2023/24 for the Operating
Fund and Water Resource and System Development Impact Fee Fund:
TABLE 6
Revenues collected from water sales exceeded the budget by $193,000 due to higher-than-
normal irrigation consumption. Impact fee revenues exceeded budget by $1.5 million due to
higher than anticipated meter sales.
45
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 2023/24:
TABLE 7
Personnel ended the year below budget due to vacancy savings in various divisions. Operations
& Maintenance ended the year below budget due to cost savings in various divisions. Capital
outlay was slightly below budget due to projects carried forward to the next fiscal year.
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 approximately $17 million will be issued in FY 2024/25.
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.
46
Water Rates
The functions and duties of the Water Utility 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 2025/26 resulted in a recommendation to increase the base rates
and commodity rates for potable water customers. There is no change to the potable
Groundwater Preservation Fee. These proposed changes will result in a potable water monthly
increase of $1.81 per month (or 3.6%) 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 84% of the
total customer base and include residential, commercial and irrigation classifications with the
majority being residential. The proposed changes will be presented to the Town Council on
June 4, 2025, and if adopted, the new potable water and potable groundwater preservation fee
changes would become effective in July 2025.
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
47
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX A
STATIC GROUNDWATER LEVELS
48
A-1
STATIC GROUNDWATER LEVELS
The Water Utility annually reports the static groundwater levels in all of the Utility’s production
wells to the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). Static water levels are measured
in the following way. First, the pump is shut off for a minimum of 24-hours to allow the aquifer
level to stabilize. Then, an electronic probe that is inserted into the well casing provides the
operator with an audio tone once it is in contact with the groundwater. This reading is compared
to the reading of the previous year. If the measurement is less than the year before, it indicates
that the aquifer is recovering in that area. If the measurement is more than the year before, it
indicates that the aquifer is being depleted in that area. The Utility’s long-range goal is to have
all wells show no change or indicate aquifer recovery.
The following table lists all production wells, the amount of groundwater pumped and the change
in depth to groundwater between January of 2023 and 2024 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 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and
2024.
Drawdowns not highlighted indicate an aquifer drawdown while drawdowns highlighted in green
indicate aquifer recovery.
49
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2025 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
50
B-1
51
B-2
52
B-3
53
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX C
UTILITY STATISTICS
54
C-1
55
C-1
C-2
56
C-3
57
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX D
ASSET INVENTORY
58
D-1
59
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
WATER UTILITY
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
APPENDIX E
ACRONYMS AND GLOSSARY
60
E-1
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. 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.
Bluestake – When a utility company comes to the job site and locates and spray paints the ground to
show where service is located underground.
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.
61
E-2
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.
62
E-3
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