How can we show that utility rate increases will create community benefits?

Before imposing rate increases, a wastewater utility wanted to demonstrate the long-term benefits of their investments in capital projects needed to meet the requirements of a federally-mandated combined sewer overflow (CSO) mitigation program.

MY CLIENT

Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati: This wastewater utility is responsible for wastewater collection and treatment in Hamilton County, Ohio and small portions of Butler, Clermont and Warren counties. Visit MSD.

MY WORK

• Conducted interviews with neighborhood, advocacy, and government stakeholders
• Developed tailored performance indicators to complement those required by the Global Reporting Initiative
• Collected performance data and stories from client staff and stakeholders
• Guided development of illustrations and graphic themes
• Compiled and wrote the Sustainability Report

RESULTS

• Fact-based, positive messaging that responded to stakeholder concerns
• Documented benefits of the CSO mitigation program
• Visual and written content to be repurposed for a website and other messaging