Water Authority audit positive

The annual audit of the Erie County Water Authority's finances has resulted in a favorable, "clean" opinion of its financial reporting and accounting practices.

The audit was done by Drescher & Malecki LLP.

"Positive bond ratings most likely will result in lower interest costs for future capital projects, and lower interest costs mean savings for ECWA customers," said Drescher & Malecki partner Tom Malecki.

According to authority Chairman Frank Swiatek, rate increases over the last 10 years have been kept below the rate of inflation.

He also stressed the Board of Commissioners' commitment to upgrading the authority's infrastructure by recently approving a five-year $125 million capital improvement program.

It will include installing additional standby power generators and major upgrades to the authority's water treatment plants, water quality labs and distribution infrastructure.