Locals invited to help update SPU’s business plan

Seattle Public Utilities is updating its Strategic Business Plan (SBP), the road map guiding the utility’s delivery of services to its customers.

Adopted three years ago after an in-depth public process, the SBP spells out the utility’s six-year plan for keeping its promise to customers: to provide efficient and forward-looking services that keep Seattle the best place to live.

During development of the plan — which establishes service levels, investments and a rate path for the years ahead — customers provided valuable feedback at focus groups, public meetings, and via online surveys.

By approving the plan, the City Council called for a review and plan update in 2017 to address unforeseen changes. SPU is now asking for a second round of community input to help in setting the utility’s course for six more years.

The updated plan will provide direction for SPU on important issues facing Seattle, such as:

• Doing its part to keep the city moving by improving critical infrastructure — including upgrades to stormwater and drinking water systems, and planning for increased seismic resiliency.
• Keeping Seattle clean and safe by supporting the Clean Cities Program.  SPU removes illegal dumping, picks up litter and hypodermic needles, and prevents and removes graffiti.
• Meeting state and federal regulatory requirements that will keep stormwater and sewage pollution out of our streams, lakes and Puget Sound.

Among the questions SPU will be asking customers, in an online survey and at seven community meetings, are:

• How should we plan for the future?
• How can we improve our service delivery?
• How should we deal with unforeseen expenses—transportation projects, city cleanup, regulatory requirements and lost revenues—not included in the original plan?

Here’s how you can get involved:

Take a survey. Take an online survey to learn more about the vital utility services SPU provides and share your feedback and ideas for the future of the utility. Click here to take the survey.

Attend a community event. The closest community event to our neighborhood will be held on Tuesday, February 7, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at SPU’s North Transfer Station (1350 N 34th St).