Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Sheu.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Lowell. DWSD was under an Administrative order of MassDEP to clean up the mess. All the existing staff were let go. The Engineering Consultant was hired to operate /manage the system. New employees were hired and trained. The system was rebuilt from ground zero.
During the process, not many banks would loan the money to the District for the system improvement work. District’s staff were treated as a second class due to the mistrust of District. District staff had to work harder not only to improve the water system but also regain the confidence of the consumers.
After almost 20 years’ hard work, DWSD has become one of the best water systems in Massachusetts with a healthy financial backing. The District is still working to improve the system. Our long-term goal is not only to supply water to current users but also to provide the good quality to neighboring towns and cities.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Our current challenge is climate change. The past drought has shown inadequate water source. We are in the process of working with the engineering consultant to formulate a conservation plan to teach consumers to use water efficiently.
In addition, the infrastructure are ageing and we have a plan to replace the infrastructure gradually, however, the financial involvement from the consumer is also important. Without the consumer financial support, this ageing infrastructure will not be able to be replaced.
Please tell us about Dracut Water Supply District.
Dracut Water Supply District (DWSD) was incorporated in 1905. DWSD provides potable water and fire protection to parts of the towns of Dracut and Tyngsboro. DWSD serves ~ a population of 24,000.
DWSD is a groundwater system. Water is majorly pumped from the two wellfields (Tyngsboro and New Boston). DWSD also supplements the water demands by pumping water through a connection with the Lowell Regional Water Facility.
DWSD has 7 groundwater wells, three water storage tanks, 8 pump stations and ~134 miles of water mains.
DWSD is governed by an open District meeting, a 3-member Board of Water Commissioners and an appointed Superintendent. DWSD has 9 staff (Treasurer, 3 Billing, and 5 Distribution) to manage the billing and maintain/operate the water system.
Approximately one-third of our income is put back into the system for capital improvements that includes the following:
• Replacement of existing wells
• Replacement of undersized water mains
• Replacement/Expansion of water transition water main
• Replacement of water storage tank
• Development of new wells
It is DWSD’s goal to provide adequate water for fire protection and safe drinking water to our customers. Furthermore, DWSD is working with the Engineering Consultant to prepare a plan to meet the needs/growths for the next 20 years.
Contact Info:
- Address: 59 Hopkins Street, Dracut, MA 01826
- Website: http://www.dracutwater.com/
- Phone: 978 957-0441
- Email: michael,sheu@dracutwater.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DracutH2O/?ref=bookmarks
Image Credit:
Michael Sheu
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