Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities

Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities
Name	Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities
Founded	0 1902
Headquarters	Cheyenne, Wyoming
Key people	Brad Brooks (General Manager)
Industry	Public Utilities
Services	Water, Wastewater
Website	https://www.cheyennebopu.org/

Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities. The Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities is a municipal utility providing essential water and wastewater services to the residents and businesses of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Established in the early 20th century, it operates under the authority of the Cheyenne City Council and is governed by a citizen board. The utility manages critical infrastructure, including water treatment plants and an extensive distribution network, to ensure reliable service and public health for the capital city.

History

The utility's origins trace back to 1902 when the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming established a public water system to address growing needs and public health concerns. Early infrastructure relied on sources like Crow Creek and local wells. A significant expansion occurred with the construction of the Granite Springs Reservoir system in the 1910s, overseen by engineers like John B. Okie. Throughout the 20th century, the utility expanded its service area and treatment capabilities, navigating challenges like the Dust Bowl and post-World War II growth. Major projects included the development of the Curt Gowdy State Park reservoirs and advanced treatment facilities to meet evolving EPA standards under laws like the Clean Water Act.

Services

The primary service is providing treated potable water sourced from the Medicine Bow National Forest watershed, including the Rob Roy Reservoir. This water is treated at facilities like the Poison Lake Water Treatment Plant before distribution. The utility also operates a comprehensive wastewater collection and treatment system, processing sewage at the Cheyenne Water Reclamation Facility to standards set by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. Additional services include water quality testing, cross-connection control programs, and emergency response for main breaks, coordinated with agencies like the Cheyenne Fire Department.

Governance and Structure

The utility is governed by a five-member Board of Directors appointed by the Cheyenne City Council. Day-to-day operations are managed by a General Manager, a position held by individuals such as Brad Brooks. The organizational structure includes divisions for engineering, operations, finance, and customer service. Policy and major fiscal decisions, such as capital improvement projects, are made in public meetings and are subject to oversight by the City of Cheyenne's government. The utility operates as an enterprise fund, separate from the city's general fund.

Infrastructure and Operations

Critical water infrastructure includes the Granite Springs Reservoir, the Pole Mountain pipeline, and over 500 miles of distribution mains. The North Cheyenne Water Treatment Plant is a key processing facility. Wastewater operations center on the Cheyenne Water Reclamation Facility and a vast network of collection sewers and pump stations. The utility employs a SCADA system for real-time monitoring and maintains a robust asset management program. It collaborates with entities like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation on water resource projects.

Rates and Financial Information

Rate structures for water and sewer service are established by the Board of Directors and approved by the Cheyenne City Council. Rates are designed to cover operational costs, debt service, and capital investments for infrastructure renewal. Financial operations are audited annually, and the utility issues revenue bonds for major projects, such as system expansions or treatment plant upgrades. Customers can access detailed rate schedules and conservation incentives through the utility's office or website.

Community Involvement and Programs

The utility actively engages with the community through educational outreach, including school programs and tours of the Cheyenne Water Reclamation Facility. It promotes water conservation via initiatives like the Wyoming State Forestry Division's tree program and offers rebates for efficient fixtures. The utility participates in local events such as the Cheyenne Frontier Days and partners with organizations like the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens on water-wise landscaping projects. Public meetings and a citizen advisory committee provide forums for community input on utility policies and projects.

Category:Public utilities in the United States Category:Cheyenne, Wyoming Category:Organizations based in Wyoming Category:Water supply organizations