8.29.02

Security at M.U.D. a year after the tragedy

With the anniversary of September 11, 2001 tragedy approaching, we are receiving a number of media calls about security operations during the past year. Here's our response to the most frequently asked questions.

1. How much money has M.U.D. spent on security since September 11, 2001? Costs for security guards have tripled. The District has incurred additional costs in upgrading physical security at its operating locations, water and gas facilities. These costs are in excess of $750,000.
2. How much money is budgeted for the coming year? Budget items for 2003 include additional surveillance equipment, physical security measures, enhanced alarm systems, security guards, and enhanced system monitoring. These costs may exceed $1 million.
3. Was a security operation in place at the District prior to September 11, 2001 and what did it include? Yes, we had a security operation in place that included security guards, surveillance cameras, alarms and other monitoring devices.
4. Has the District hired more permanent employees or contractors since September 11, 2001 to address security issues? Yes, we hired additional security guards and established a Director of Security position.
5. What should customer-owners know about the security of their water? Customer-owners should know that treatment, testing, and monitoring of our systems is, and always has been, a priority at the District. As new security measures, techniques, or products are made available they will be evaluated and incorporated where necessary.
6. Are M.U.D. water rates going to go up due to extra ordinary expenses? There are no plans at this time to increase water rates to pay for enhanced security measures.

2002 news

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