INCORPORATING ASSET MANAGEMENT INTO THE STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS FOR THE WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY OF CABARRUS COUNTY (WSACC), NORTH CAROLINA

In 2000–2001, the Water and Sewer Authority of Cabarrus County (WSACC) undertook a major water and wastewater planning effort. The purpose of the planning effort was to analyze the water and wastewater systems and to develop a long-range plan to serve anticipated growth over the next 50 years in Cabarrus County which is projected to grow from about 114,000 people to 450,000 people. The plan identified system needs for both the water and wastewater system, and also addressed critical water supply issues.Key to the success of the project was linking asset management tools with the strategic planning effort. Given the large area served, the number of political entities involved, and the disparate sources of data, developing an overall asset database was essential to effectively implementing the project. The project also included developing a rate impact model so that WSACC members understand the long-term financial impact of the CIP on their ratepayers. This paper focuses on how asset management tools helped address the five basic elements of effective asset management as follows:Element 1 – Inventory AssetsElement 2 – Value AssetsElement 3 - Evaluate Asset CapabilitiesElement 4 – Maintain AssetsElement 5 – Optimize AssetsThis project provides WSACC and its members the information and tools they need to provide utility infrastructure in the right place, at the right time, and at the most economical cost. By developing a Master Plan that is an accurate and reliable planning document, reflecting input for all WSACC members, this project provides an opportunity for planning in Cabarrus County to positively influence the future for all present and future residents.