A Framework for Understanding Water Utility Governance Structures

Utility ownership structures are intrinsically related to internal governance structures and external oversight and regulation. Across North America, there are many variations in organizational and governance structures. These differences result in different operation models, partnerships, and policies and programs. As water and wastewater utilities strive to find a way to balance infrastructure investments, asset management, workforce development, and climate change impacts, they must seek ways to increase operational efficiency and cut costs. Establishing a firm understanding of existing utility governance structures and the impacts they have on utility decision-making is a foundational requirement to advancing organizational effectiveness and improved operations. This project seeks to fill this gap by delineating the various types of water and wastewater utility governance structures and identifying how they affect utility decision making in key areas.