AVRWC to participate in state audit of regional cost of water service (August 15, 2014)

(Apple Valley) — At the request of Senator Stephen Knight and with the approval of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, the State Auditor will conduct an audit of the cost of water service of water providers in and around Apple Valley. The review will include the cities of Hesperia and Victorville, as well as Golden State Water Company and Apple Valley Ranchos.

Apple Valley Ranchos expressed its full support and requested the process include a review of compliance with state and federal drinking water standards, quality of service, as well adequacy of investment to ensure sustained reliable operations. It is important that our customers have confidence that the price of water service is established in a fair and reasonable fashion. Equally important is that customers expect the water they drink is safe and that adequate investments are being made to ensure reliable operations now and into the future, said Christopher Schilling, Chief Executive Officer of Apple Valley Ranchos.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimated in 2011 that $232 billion to $670 billion needs to be invested in the nation’s drinking water systems over the next 20 years to maintain safety and quality standards. Schilling further stated, The investments we are making today will determine whether the Town has a water system they can rely on for the well-being and safety of the community now and into the future. It’s a necessary part of life. We are committed to ensuring our customers have safe, reliable water service.

Schilling went onto say that Apple Valley Ranchos looks forward to participating in this review and the findings of the State Auditor, which will be submitted to the Joint Legislative Audit Committee upon completion. Keeping with its tradition of transparency, Apple Valley Ranchos will keep all stakeholders informed about this ongoing process.

Apple Valley Ranchos Water Company delivers safe, reliable water and exceptional service to about 20,000 connections, about 63,000 people, in the Town of Apple Valley and parts of San Bernardino County communities. Additional information may be found by visiting avrwater.com.