NC S756

Direct the Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee to include a study in the 2014-2015 Work Plan examining benefits of merging public water systems and wastewater collection and treatment works.

Require the Program Evaluation Division to investigate performance of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utility Department, Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, and Two Rivers Utilities to determine if merger benefits can be replicated for other systems.

Study whether the State can incentivize well-performing water and sewer systems to purchase, interconnect with, or enter joint management agreements with underperforming systems that lack affordability, reliability, or legal compliance.

Study whether the State can allow high-performing systems to apply for grant funding or assistance on behalf of underperforming systems when funding is contingent on purchase, interconnection, or joint management agreements.

Require the Program Evaluation Division to submit findings and recommendations to the Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee and Environmental Review Commission.