§ 126-122. Board-initiated rate hearing.

(a)

Investigation of rates/practices. On its own motion or by request of a Franchisee, the Board may investigate to determine if the rates charged or collected by the Franchisee, or if the Franchisee's practices affecting the rates, are just, reasonable, non-discriminatory and compensatory, or are in violation of this article, the Franchise, or the rules and regulations made pursuant to this article. The Franchisee shall provide access to all books and records as requested by the County, including but not limited to the following:

(1)

A copy of all current and prior detailed general ledgers and journals or other accounting records;

(2)

Copies of all current and prior canceled checks or, at a minimum, a copy of the check register or journals which support the detailed general ledgers or other accounting records;

(3)

Copies of the most recently filed and previous two federal income tax returns which report Franchisee's assets, contributions in aid of construction and Franchisee's operations;

(4)

Copies of power bills for the most recently completed fiscal year of the Franchisee, batched by individual meter, identifying the meter as to particular well, lift station or other appropriate utility function;

(5)

Copies of the invoices for chemicals used for water and/or wastewater treatment for the most recently completed fiscal year of the Franchisee;

(6)

Copies of latest real and tangible personal property tax bill(s);

(7)

Detail of cost increases subsequent to the Test Year, if applicable;

(8)

Copies of all permits issued by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and/or the Department of Health (DOH);

(9)

Copies of DEP and/or DOH monthly operation reports for the Test Year;

(10)

Copies of the latest DEP sanitary survey and/or wastewater compliance inspection reports for the Test Year;

(11)

Any written notice of violation order or consent order from any government agency;

(12)

A schedule of current service rates; and

(13)

Any proposed plant additions or improvements.

(b)

Rate hearing. If any change in rates or practices is deemed warranted, the Board shall require that a rate hearing be held to determine just, reasonable, non-discriminatory and compensatory rates, fees, or practices to be thereafter imposed.

(c)

Notice. Notice of the rate hearing shall be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in Sarasota County at least ten days before the hearing and shall provide a copy the Staff rate analysis report and proposed rates to the Franchisee at least 60 days before the date of the public hearing.

(Ord. No. 2016-041, § 2, 9-21-2016)