5. Preliminary Scoping Memo

The scope of this rulemaking is to consider establishing new guidelines for consolidation of districts or for some variation of a "High-Cost" fund, within the multi-district water utilities, as a means to advance the Commission's Water Action Plan's objective of setting rates that balance investment, conservation, and affordability.

The Commission will consider these mechanisms on a general policy basis and will not consider the application of the mechanisms to a specific multi-district utility. To the extent this Rulemaking results in the adoption of new mechanisms or guidelines, utilities can include requests to utilize these mechanisms or guidelines in their respective general rate cases or other rate-making applications, as appropriate.

The above identified questions and request for information set forth the specific inquiries and issues within the scope. Therefore, we seek comments from all parties on these matters. This rulemaking will be conducted in accordance with Article 6 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure.