AWWA JAW10133

Legislation in the state of Washington has provided the impetus for developing cooperative countywide water services. The long-term improvement program permits small satellite water systems to operate under the aegis of established utilities at the level of assistance necessary to meet regulatory requirements and to provide cost-effective, reliable service to customers. Satellite services range from the district utility's assuming outright ownership to contracting with the satellite utility for ongoing services, such as billing or help with technical services, on a one-time or a continuous basis. The program as implemented in Stevens County is described. Includes figure.