Navigating Multiple Jurisdictions within a Special Utility District

Abstract

The Southgate Water and Southgate Sanitation Districts (Districts) are a quasi-municipal special district located in the south Denver suburbs. The Districts function separately from one another, working independently to provide water distribution and wastewater collection systems to more than 80,000 residents. Service areas for these systems cover four cities, two counties, two fire districts, different storm water authorities, and a wide variety of other local stakeholders including homeowners’ associations and special development districts. Project design and construction within the Districts present significant permitting and coordination challenges, as they always border and/or cross over multiple jurisdictional boundaries. Because the functional goal of each agency is different, project requirements and specifications are frequently in disagreement, or even direct conflict with one another. While the stakeholders recognize the importance of reliable water/sewer service, the red tape can lead to project delays, costs, and project immobility. The purpose of this case study is to discuss effective management of both development and capital projects using experience gained from completing dozens of successful projects within the Districts’ boundaries. The following topics will be discussed: A brief history of the Southgate Water District and Southgate Sanitation Districts; An overview of the relationships between the Districts and the various jurisdictions within their service areas; and Several project-specific examples of conflicting interests regarding waterline, sanitary sewer, stormwater, and roadway improvement projects.