City of San Diego Public Utilities Department recognized as a Utility of the Future Today

San Diego — The City of San Diego Public Utilities Department was recognized as a Utility of the Future Today on Sept. 27 by a partnership of water sector organizations including the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, the Water Environment Federation, the Water Environment & Reuse Foundation, the WateReuse Association and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The inaugural program recognizes utilities with proven success in innovative and sustainable management practices.

The Public Utilities Department was honored at the Water Environment Federation’s 89th annual technical exhibition and conference in New Orleans for its efforts in community engagement and water reuse. In addition, to San Diego’s selection, additional utilities from across the U. S., Canada, and Denmark were selected for the honor. The organizations received a commemorative flag and certificate identifying them as members of the Utility of the Future (UTOF) Today Recognition Program and promotes this outstanding achievement upon appearance.

“I am very proud of this accomplishment. Being recognized as a Utility of the Future Today is validation of our commitment to employing forward thinking business practices to maintain strong relationships with our internal and external customers,” said Public Utilities Director, Halla Razak.

The UOTF Today concept was first introduced in 2013 to guide utilities toward smarter, more efficient operations. Since then many utilities have successfully implemented new and creative programs to address local environmental and community priorities.

“We have set a new standard for community involvement with Pure Water outreach and broke new ground with our employee engagement effort,” Halla Razak said. “I’m proud of the work the Department has done together and I look forward to the future with excitement.”