Water revenue dips in April; utility reports conservation, industrial slowdown and ongoing legal fight over disputed $100 bill

The Waukesha Water Utility reported April revenues and consumption below budget at the commission meeting on May 15, citing a combination of conservation, natural billing‑cycle timing and reduced use by an industrial customer that has closed or consolidated buildings. Staff said total consumption for the month was about 3.6% under the budgeted level for the period; billing cycle differences (some sections were billed with three to five fewer days than last year) also contributed.

Utility staff told commissioners distribution expenses were above budget in April after the utility received a large street‑opening permit invoice from the City of Waukesha and paid seasonal landscaping and ditch repairs related to winter work. Interest income remained higher than projected and the utility’s cash position was stable (staff reported roughly $46.7 million at the start of the month and $47.1 million at month‑end). Capital programs continue—Silvernail Road realignment has dewatering challenges and the Green Meadow project is starting—while a $4 million demolition grant remains pending final historic‑preservation guidance before funds can be drawn down.

Staff also provided a legal update on a long‑running case brought by a property owner (identified in meeting discussion as Jerry Fabik) who says he requested disconnection of service at an airport hangar. Utility staff described following established disconnection processes, reported that account records show water used after any alleged request, and said the unpaid small balance rolled to the tax roll. The customer pursued relief with the Public Service Commission; an administrative law judge and the PSC denied his claims, and the matter is now back in circuit court. Staff said defending the case has cost the utility tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees on what began as roughly a $100 disputed amount, and noted the expense is paid from rates customers pay.

Commissioners and staff discussed whether public awareness of the litigation could influence the outcome; staff noted court filings and commission proceedings are public record. Commissioners asked about revenue trends and whether the utility should adjust its conservation assumption for next year’s budget; staff said the utility projects a 2% conservation reduction each year but will monitor trends and could adjust projections for 2026 as warranted. The utility is also preparing for an upcoming rate case (staff estimated an 18‑month process) and noted any rate action would likely take effect in 2027 under current projections.