Water Division

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The MS Public Utilities Staff investigates all water filings before the Public Service Commission and makes recommendations thereon. Filings reviewed include applications for construction of facilities, applications to serve customers, and notices to revise the rates and charges authorized by the Commission. The Staff presents testimony in selected cases at hearings before the Commission. In addition, the Staff reviews and makes utility viability determinations for the MS Department of Economic and Community Development block grant water improvement projects and for the MS State Department of Health regarding new public water systems.

A variety of activities are performed to insure that utilities comply with all applicable laws and rules. These include auditing water and sewer companies, making cost studies of construction projects, monitoring construction of new facilities, reviewing operation and maintenance procedures, and examining customer service practices of water utilities. Construction of new electric generators, transmission systems and substations are also monitored. To aid utilities in compliance, the Staff reviews accounting, engineering, and operational matters. Technical assistance is also given to Commission staff in their enforcement of rules.