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municipalauthorities.org | 41 operations, and transitioning to alternative energy sources can not only reduce utility costs but also contribute to environmental sustainability as well as operational resilience. Be sure to research localized considerations surrounding zoning, land use regulations, and any visual and environmental impacts that could affect alternative energy programs. Do Not Absorb Credit Card Convenience Fees Credit card processing fees can add up quickly, especially for large payments. By applying transaction processing fees (convenience fees) to customers or setting limits on the amounts that can be paid by card per transaction, authorities can reduce operating expenses. This policy shift helps ensure that those choosing to use more costly payment methods bear the cost, rather than spreading it across all ratepayers. It is also good practice to educate your customers on the many free payment options you offer and to promote those methods. At Erie Water Works, we have seven free ways to pay (shown below). Essentially, we do web, phone and in-person. Below are different options when you pay online. Sound article continued from page 11. Subcontracted vs. In-House Services: Evaluate Regularly While subcontracting services like PA One Call locating, snow plowing, or certain maintenance tasks may have been cost- effective in the past, it’s important to regularly reassess these decisions. In some cases, hiring in-house staff for these responsibilities can save money and improve service reliability. It’s not just about the economics but the numbers are certainly a compelling and undeniable reality. Your authority’s reputation and obligation may mean more in some cases. For example, if your utility locating contractor is not marking tickets by the legal dig date, and contractors and projects are being delayed, not only are obligations being ignored but your reputation for doing a good job is comprised. Couple that with a dramatic increase in contractual costs, and it’s time to embrace the lessons learned and flip the script. It worked for a while. But it’s not working now. Have the fortitude to recognize the need for change and then drive it. Conclusion A well-run authority balances sound financial management with innovative revenue generation and strategic cost reductions. By focusing on essentials like clean audits, smart borrowing, and people investment, authorities can maintain financial health while exploring new ways to generate income and reduce expenses. Authorities have a multitude of opportunities to help ensure long-term sustainability while continuing to deliver essential services to their communities at reasonable rates. Let’s all work together to make sure we’re sharing best practices and strengthening our authorities! S Together, we create the infrastructure people need most GPI is a nationally recognized engineering firm that has been working to better our communities by providing high-quality engineering and construction services for over 50 years. Learn more at www.gpinet.com . 3 Penn Center West, Suite 320, Pittsburgh, PA 15276 5340 Fryling Road Suite 206, Erie, PA 16510 814.725.8659