Mike McNulty

April 13, 2010

"Putnam Public service District is not a private entity. not a for-profit," Mike McNulty told Putnam Rotarians today. "We're non-profit,"

McNulty has served six years as general manager of the PSD. "We are closely regulated by the Public Service Commission. Our business model is efficient, friendly service and low rates," he said.

"We are environmentalists -- from the get-go," he said. "We're environmentalists because that's our business -- water and waste water. If you don't collect [wastewater] and treat it, it's polluting your environment."

.The utility district is completing a project to extend water and sewerage service from Cannery Lane near Shawnee Estates all the way back to St. Albans, and on Teays Valley Road. Work is presently underway to serve all of Rocky Step Road, he said.

The Putnam PSD has received several awards for high water quality and service to its 11,500 customers.

People ask why their water bills are so high, said McNulty. "High in relation to what? The national standard for water and sewer is three percent of median household income. Ten years ago, the median household income in our area was $40,000. Our rates run $26.74 for 4,500 gallons, $42.58 with sewage service."

McNulty has heard a variety of excuses for failure to pay water bills. "One person said she was kidnapped and taken to Florida. Another said she had no phone, and at that moment the cell phone in her purse rang."

People become angry when service is terminated. "But when people don't pay their bills, who pays? You do," he said.