(Rowland Heights, CA, December 27, 2013) – At their December 10th regular board meeting, the Rowland Water District (Rowland) Board of Directors unanimously approved the Financial Audit Report for Fiscal Year 2012/2013 prepared by independent accounting firm White Nelson Diehl Evans LLP. The report, a complete review of the District’s financial position and fiscal practices, underlines Rowland’s financial health and sound stewardship of resources.

“One of the most important commitments we make to our ratepayers is to use their resources as wisely as possible,” said Ken Deck, Rowland Water District general manager. “An independent report from auditors with the expertise of White Nelson Diehl Evans is an affirmation of just how seriously we take fiscal responsibility and transparency.”

With assets of more than $106 million and revenues for fiscal year 2013 totaling $19,675,001, Rowland’s strong financial health positions the District to provide long-term, reliable, cost-effective service to its customers. This financial strength enabled Rowland to make wise decisions in 2013, such as the purchase of additional water rights and water for storage, including 182.5 acre-feet (nearly 60 million gallons) of water rights in the Central Basin, and 5,000 acre-feet (652 million gallons) of water stored in the Main San Gabriel Basin. By planning ahead and purchasing water at favorable rates, Rowland helps enhance water supply reliability and keep customer bills as low as possible.

“Fiscal responsibility goes beyond stretching ratepayer dollars to their best use,” said Szu Pei Lu-Yang, president of the Rowland Board of Directors. “By keeping Rowland financially strong, we have the ability to take advantage of favorable situations that provide long-term benefit to the communities we serve.”

Wise financial stewardship is one of the key initiatives emphasized by Rowland’s Board of Directors in the 2013 Strategic Plan adopted by the District. The plan, “Effective Action for Sustainable Progress,” identifies goals and priorities for the agency, including: securing a reliable, long-term water supply for the region; enhancing communication with customers and other stakeholders; and building increased value into all services the District provides.

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