public utility or going private?

[al tpo]

Our utility is now looking for a private company to run our wastewater plants and our service call workers .WHATS THE PRO"S AND CONS to this situation?

[Trent]

I can see a cost savings. Generally private industry can work cheaper than the public entity. Particularly if they put the contract out to bid.

This will of course be a con to anyone on the public payroll who will lose their job or have to take a pay cut to stay on.

[Dennis]

I would put the bids out. I would use the bids to determine a operating costs goal. Be the best in the country, set an example for other cities. At Akron Metro Bus Lines. (Early 80's). We had a hard core maintenance supurvisor. We made repairs like a NASCAR shop. A rollover would be put back together like new for a fraction of factory charges. Workers need a sense of pride in what they do. Back then you were on the team or you where gone, management included. If a private company can do it right for less you need new management.

[ROGER BRULEY]

just seems to me a shame to be giving someone else 10% + to do what you should be getting done anyway now. possible the change need is who is in charge now

[TimHolder]

just seems to me a shame to be giving someone else 10% + to do what you should be getting done anyway now. possible the change need is who is in charge now

I agree with you and Dennis. However, I see so often that efficiency and saving money is always talked about by upper management. When operators make a difference it often goes unrewarded in any fashion. They tend to loose incentive.