Crews from the DU Electric Dept. recently returned from helping the Andalusia Utilities Board and Riviera Utilities (Daphne) restore power following Hurricane Sally. Hayden Dye, Derrick Moore, Greg Moody, Joe Herring, Len Cox, and Paul Hughes headed south following the storm and shared the attached photos showing the damage caused by hurricane force winds and torrential flooding. The American Public Power Association (APPA) offered its appreciation to DU and other utilities who stepped up to help fellow utility companies during this challenging time. "Mutual aid is at the heart of what public power does, and the public power community thanks DU for stepping up to help a neighbor in need," said Joy Ditto, APPA President and CEO. DU participates in the APPA Mutual Aid Network, which coordinates with utilities and authorities during widespread power outages.

The DU board has approved management’s recommendation to pass through the 2.5% credit on wholesale electric purchases from TVA to all DU electric customers. Per TVA’s recent announcement, DU will receive a credit equal to 2.5% of its non-fuel, wholesale power cost each month beginning in October 2020 and continuing for one year. A typical residential electric customer will see an average savings of $2 per month. (Each customer’s actual savings will be based on their metered usage.) Since billing cycles lag about a month behind usage, customers will see the reduction on their November DU billing statement. “Our Electric System is meeting its financial targets each quarter,” Hardin said. “Management and the board felt it would be most beneficial to pass these savings on to our customers at this time.”

Effective October 1, 2020, Decatur Utilities will no longer charge customers the current $3.95 third-party “convenience fee” for processing payments via credit/debit card. Instead, DU will now absorb the fee. DU expects the change to increase the use of self-service payment options including payments by kiosk, SmartHub app, online and phone. The elimination of the fee will allow customers to utilize these safe, no-contact payment methods at no additional cost. Customers will also now be able to set up recurring credit/debit card payments using the SmartHub app. (The mobile app is available on the App Store and Google Play. Customers can also register for the desktop version at www.decaturutilities.com) General Manager Ray Hardin said use of DU’s self-service payment options has been increasing steadily over the past several years. “The volume of transactions and the current COVID-19 pandemic make this a logical time to stop charging that convenience fee so even more customers can take advantage of these safe, no-contact payment options,” he added.

Decatur Utilities will begin smoke testing of the sewer infrastructure in selected areas of NW Decatur beginning Monday, August 17th and continuing for several weeks. Smoke testing is a proven and effective way of identifying problem areas within the DU sewer system - including leaks from roof vents, building foundations, catch basins, clean-outs, down spout, broken sewer laterals, or manhole covers. For more information on smoke testing and a video explaining the process, please visit the Smoke Testing page in our resources section. The area being tested this year is referenced in the brown shaded areas below: Testing will begin in the brown shaded area EAST of Beltline Rd, encompassing areas north and south of 5th St. NW. Testing will then move to the brown shaded west of Beltline Rd. Customers within these test areas will be notified via mailing and door hanger. All emergency response personnel and city officials have also been notified. NOTE: Customers in areas where smoke testing is being conducted will be notified directly prior to testing. Notification Flyer in English; Notification Flyer in Spanish. English Flyer: Spanish Flyer: All emergency personnel, including the Fire Department, as well as the affected customers are notified before smoke testing begins. Authorized crews from Video Industrial Services will use a device to inject smoke into a sewer manhole, then watch to see if smoke escapes through the ground or through storm drains indicating the presence of damaged pipe or cross-connection. Crews will note the location of the problem and schedule repairs. Note: We only schedule repairs to DU’s sewer mains and portions of the sewer service up to the Right of Way. If the homeowner’s system is properly tied into the DU sewer system, smoke will come out of the homeowner’s vent pipe. If no smoke comes out, that may indicate a problem in the homeowner’s system. DU’s goal is to keep storm water out of our sewer lines. When storm water or ground water enters the sewer system through damaged pipes or mistaken connections from storm water sources, it takes up valuable capacity in our sewer lines – especially during heavy rain. One common problem discovered in smoke testing is homeowner’s broken clean-out caps. When the clean-out cap is damaged, storm water and debris can come into DU’s sewer lines. Smoke test also benefits the customer by alerting them to dangers such as uncapped sewage lines which could allow sewer gases to enter the home. The customer is responsible for repairs to their own plumbing system. It is important to note that the smoke used for smoke testing is safe and non-toxic. You can find technical data for the smoke used in smoke testing at www.hurcotech.com/liquismoke . Text of Official Notice mailed to customers in the affected area: This is to inform you that Video Industrial Services, a certified contractor for Decatur Utilities, will be smoke testing the sanitary sewer system in your area in the coming weeks. Why This Testing Method is Used This test is part of our continuing effort to provide a safe, economical, efficient, and environmentally sound sanitary sewer system throughout the City of Decatur. The smoke testing method is a proven and effective means of identifying problem areas within the sewer system. Eliminating defects and improper connections will help Decatur Utilities remain in compliance with state and federal regulatory agencies regarding sanitary sewer overflows. How Smoke Testing Works This test consists of dispersing smoke into the sewer lines and manholes in order to identify defects in the sewer mains where groundwater or storm water may be entering the system. This smoke is odorless and safe, leaving no residues, stains, and having no adverse effect on people, animals, or plants. What to Expect As the smoke is dispersed into the sewer system, the smoke will penetrate up through the ground and can be seen coming from roof vents, building foundations, catch basins, clean-outs, down spouts, broken sewer laterals, or manhole covers. Smoke should not enter your home or business if it is properly plumbed, vented, and the drain traps contain water. Additionally, affected customers should expect to receive notification from our contractor (Video Industrial Services), via door hanger, two (2) days prior to when the smoke testing will begin in your area. Important Notice to Residents Water can evaporate from unused plumbing fixtures. If you have a bathroom, plumbing fixture, or basement floor drain that is not used or is seldom used, please pour at least two gallons of water into these fixtures the day before the scheduled smoke testing. If Problems are Found It is normal for the smoke to discharge from the plumbing vents on your roof. However, if your plumbing is faulty or drains traps are dry, the smoke may enter your house through your plumbing. Smoke coming from holes in the ground or out of your down spouts are not normal and is considered a defect or an improper connection. In the event that smoke does enter your building, please open all windows and doors to allow for proper ventilation until the smoke has cleared. Please advise a representative of the smoke testing crew or Decatur Utilities in the event that smoke enters your building. All smoke testing discoveries shall be photographed and documented. Decatur Utilities will contact the property owners if a defect or improper connection is located on private property. Special Requests While smoke testing is safe, residents who have special needs, concerns, or questions, please contact Jordan Young at (256) 552-1403 or Brad Irwin at (256) 552-1483. Additional Information Your presence at your home or business is not required. Pets should be considered during the day of the test, if they must be left unattended, make sure that proper ventilation is provided. Pets may also become frightened if smoke enters the house. All Fire, Police, Emergency Medical, and City of Decatur Officials have been notified of this work.

Beginning Monday, August 17th, Decatur Utilities will begin a quality control survey of the DU natural gas system to ensure public safety and the proper operation of gas lines and meters. This survey is required by the Federal Department of Transportation-Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) and The Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC). As required annually, the survey will check for leaks in all natural gas mains and business/commercial service lines in Decatur. One-fifth of residential service lines are checked each year. This year’s residential survey area (#2) includes portions of Decatur bordered by 8th St. SE on the north and Clearview St. SW/Knight St. SW and Flint Creek on the south, Flint Creek on the east and Spring Ave. SW on the west. (Reference map here.) This project will involve a slow moving vehicle (approximately 5 MPH) in streets, alleys and highways throughout Decatur. A portion of the work may be conducted at night when traffic is lighter. Some parts of the gas system are only accessible by foot by a technician using handheld gas detection instruments. The survey work will be conducted by Heath Consultants Inc. of Houston, Texas, a specialist in gas leak detection. Vehicles operated by Heath Consultants Inc. will have signs on the vehicle identifying the company and identifying them as an “Authorized Decatur Utilities Contractor.” In order to check for service line leaks, the Heath Consultants employee will require access to customer property and the gas meter. Heath Consultants employees will have identification and will explain their purpose for being on private property. During this survey, gas leaks found on Decatur Utilities equipment will be repaired and gas service restored. If gas leaks found are not on Decatur Utilities equipment, the homeowner or business will be notified and gas service will be disconnected until repairs are completed by the homeowner or business. It is anticipated this work will be completed by December 11, 2020. For additional information, please contact Jerry Parker, Measurement and Compliance Supervisor, by e-mail at jparker@decaturutilities.com or by phone at (256) 552-1404.

The American Public Gas Association (APGA) has recognized the Decatur Utilities Natural Gas Department with its 2020 Safety Award. APGA President and CEO Dave Schryver commended DU for its outstanding safety record during the 2019 calendar year. Ray Hardin, DU's general manager, echoed those sentiments, congratulating the entire Gas/Water/Wastewater Operations Group for the "well deserved" recognition. Jimmy Evans, G/W/WW operations manager, said the award "is in recognition of the successful efforts the DU system has made to ensure the safety of DU employees and customers - as well as the integrity of the DU natural gas system for CY2019." He noted that all APGA members are eligible to enter the safety contest. 2020 APGA Safety Award winners were based on the number of recordable injury or illness cases from January 1 to December 31, 2019. DU participates in Group D which includes natural gas systems that work 38,000 - 70,000 man hours.

DU advises flushing plumbing to remove stagnant water in commercial buildings when reopening after extended closure. Closing buildings and businesses for weeks or months reduces water usage, potentially leading to stagnant water inside building plumbing. This water can become unsafe to drink or otherwise use for personal or commercial purposes. Types of buildings/businesses affected include churches, day cares, offices, restaurants, and schools. EPA recommends that commercial building owners, building managers, and businesses take steps to flush the building’s plumbing before reopening. Flushing involves opening taps and letting the water run to remove water that has been standing in the interior pipes and/or outlets. The flushing time can vary by the plumbing configuration and type of outlet being cleared. Flushing may need to occur in segments (by floor or room) based on the building’s plumbing design and water pressure. Begin nearest to where water enters the building and move toward the farthest tap. Cold water should be flushed before hot water. Consideration should be given to completing the following minimum preventative measures: All cold water outlets should be flushed before hot water. Flush hot water outlets until water reaches its maximum temperature. Flush cold and hot water at all points of use (indoor and outdoor faucets, toilets, drinking fountains, and water using devices such as dishwashers, refrigerators/ice makers) to replace the water that has been standing in the pipes during the period of non-use. Water-using devices may require additional cleaning/disinfection steps in addition to flushing, such as changing water filters, draining and flushing hot water heaters, and discarding ice. It is important to follow all manufacturers recommended cleaning procedures. Consider checking water quality parameters, such as temperature, pH, and disinfectant levels, in the water entering the building and at points of use after flushing to verify that fresh water is being flushed through the entire plumbing system. Achieving stable temperature, pH, or disinfectant levels can be a good indicator that the system has been adequately flushed. Large water using appliances should run through at least one full cycle prior to use. NOTE: Flushing complex or multi-floor plumbing systems should be done by a professional plumber. More information and additional resources may be found at https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/information-maintaining-or-restoring-water-quality-buildings-low-or-no-use and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/building-water-system.html If you have questions or concerns regarding your water quality, please contact DU at 256-552-1444.

DU lobby now reopened to public; Disconnects to resume on June 22 DU has no reopened its Main Lobby to counter payments. In-office customer service has resumed by appointment only. Social distancing measures and safety precautions will be in place and DU will limit the number of customers in the lobby. DU highly encourages customers to continue using contactless payment methods, including Automatic Bank Draft, postal mail, self-service kiosks, the Smart Hub app, online at www.decaturutilities.com, and by phone at 256-552-1400 Opt. 3. Customers wishing to make an appointment for customer service may do so at www.decaturutilities.com by clicking on the “Schedule Appointment” icon OR by calling 256-552-1400 Opt. 4. However, customers may continue to stop, start, or transfer service by phone or email to csr@decaturutilities.com. DU is advising customers that, after three months of suspending disconnects for non-payment, it will reinstate disconnecting accounts for non-payment effective Monday, June 22nd. DU asks that customers who have past-due bills contact Customer Service at 256-552-1400 Opt. 4 well in advance of that date to discuss possible payment arrangements and avoid disconnection. Customers are encouraged to make partial payments when possible in order to keep the accrued bill balance manageable. Customers needing assistance paying their utility bill may contact Community Action Partnership of North Alabama (CAPNA). Qualification guidelines for this assistance have been relaxed due to COVID-19 to make more customers eligible. Customers can get the latest update on applying for assistance by calling CAPNA at 256-260-4050 or by visiting www.capna.org. Additional assistance may be available through other local community support organizations.

Decatur Utilities is proud to announce that it has partnered with TVA, Renasant Bank, 3M and Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC) to make $30,000 in community support funds available to those adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. TVA provided $15,000 in matching dollars from its Community Care Fund and Renasant Bank, 3M and AFC each contributed $5,000 to the effort. (No DU ratepayer funds will be used.) Monies will be used to address three specific areas of hardship. Funds will supplement the Committee on Church Cooperation (CCC) and Salvation Army food pantries and feeding programs; The Community Action Partnership of North Alabama will receive funds to distribute for assistance with rent, mortgage and utility payments; The Decatur-Morgan Hospital Foundation will receive funds to purchase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for local healthcare professionals. DU customers should contact each agency directly to submit requests for assistance. Food Assistance Committee on Church Cooperation – 256-355-8893 Salvation Army – 256-353-2822 Rent/Mortgage/Utility Assistance Community Action Partnership of North Alabama – 256-355-7843; www.capna.org “We are extremely grateful that TVA launched this initiative to help those who have been hit the hardest by this crisis,” said Ray Hardin, DU general manager. “For Renasant Bank, 3M and AFC to step up and help us obtain these matching funds is a testament to the true spirit of community we have here in Decatur.” “In the spirit of public power, we are honored to partner with local power companies to address the unprecedented challenges facing those we serve,” said Jeannette Mills, TVA executive vice president and chief external relations officer. “TVA has a mission of service to make life better for the people of the Valley, and providing these funds to address immediate needs is one way we can help ease the burdens on families and communities.” Our thanks to United Way of Morgan County for administering these funds on behalf of the supporting companies and community partners.

Decatur Utilities is observing Drinking Water Week, May 3-9, and emphasizing the vital role that safe, clean drinking makes in our daily lives! 5-7-20 When you come to work for a public utility like DU, you answer a call to serve the public. Accolades aren't necessary - but they are certainly appreciated! The workers at DU's Water Treatment Plant are consistently recognized as running one of the Best Operated Plants in the state by the Alabama Water Pollution Control Association. In fact, they won that award for Surface Water Plants > 60 Million Gallons Per Day in 2018 and 2019. In addition, the plant received the Six-Year Area-Wide Optimization Award presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) for 2013-2018. These awards recognize the outstanding operational practices that in place to ensure that DU meets or exceeds all state and federal regulations for water quality. Today's Water Week shout out goes to the men and women who keep our plant producing safe drinking water 24/7/365! ****** 5-6-20 When we use the word "outage", the first thing that comes to mind is the power going out. However, "water outages" can occur when water mains break due to the ground shifting, dig ins, etc. Today's Drinking Water Week shout out goes to DU employees from the Gas/Water/Wastewater Group that keep our 500-mile network of underground water mains maintained and repaired so the water keeps flowing! **** 5-5-20 So, what does it take to make sure your water supply is readily available when you need it, and safe to consume and use? It's actually a pretty involved process, beginning at the Tennessee River! DU's raw water supply comes from the Wheeler Basin Reservoir, upstream from the Hudson Memorial Bridge. Incoming water is screened to remove debris and trash, then it goes through a multi-stage treatment process to ensure that the "final product" meets or exceeds all regulations established by EPA and ADEM for water quality and purity. More than a million tests a year are performed in our in-house laboratory and by independent, third-party laboratories. It takes about 24 hours for each gallon of water to move through the plant - and we treat about 27 million gallons per day on average! Water is then distributed to customers throughout Decatur via a 500-mile network of underground pipes and booster stations. Huge pumps at the plant provide the pressure needed to keep it flowing and water tanks keep about 24 million gallons of water in backup storage at all times. So turn on the tap, raise a glass and help us celebrate National Drinking Water Week, May 3-9! ***** 5-4-20 This year's theme is "There When You Need It." Truly, the men and women of DU's Water Resources and Gas/Water/Wastewater Operations work work 24/7/365 to ensure that Decatur's residents are receiving ample supply of safe, clean drinking water that meets or surpasses all state and federal mandates for quality. “With so much changing around us nowadays, it is comforting to know that our tap water is readily available for hygienic and drinking purposes,” said American Water Works Association CEO David LaFrance. “Even during the coronavirus pandemic, water professionals across North America continue to report to work to collect, treat and distribute water to ensure the health and safety of their communities.” Decatur Utilities General Manager Ray Hardin echoed that sentiment. "We are dedicated to making sure Decatur's drinking water supply is plentiful and safe," he said. "I appreciate all of our employees who work so hard every day to deliver on that promise." To commemorate the week, water utilities, water organizations, government entities, environmental advocates, schools and other stakeholders throughout North America and beyond will encourage consumers to understand and appreciate their drinking water.

Tomorrow, April 18th, is National Lineworker Appreciation Day across America. It’s a day where we all say a humble and heartfelt thank you to the men and women who “toe the line” and work hard every day to keep the electricity flowing so we can all enjoy a safe, comfortable and healthy way of life! Whether its severe weather and tornadoes, an ice storm or a pandemic….these dedicated workers answer the call day and night, in all conditions and without reservation. It takes a team of lineworkers, engineers, substation electricians, warehouse crews, dispatchers, administrative personnel and others to keep us in power!

UPDATED 3-27-20 The ongoing COVID-19 crisis has created personal health and economic uncertainty for many Decatur citizens. Decatur Utilities remains committed to its mission of providing safe, reliable utility services at the lowest feasible cost, while meeting the needs of our employees and customers. Toward that end, DU General Manager Ray Hardin announced today that Decatur Utilities is extending the following precautionary measures for the foreseeable future. Suspension of Disconnection for Non-Payment of All Utility Services EXTENDED Until further notice, DU will continue to suspend the normal practice of disconnecting utility services for nonpayment. With summer approaching and usage expected to increase, customers are encouraged to make payments toward their bill as they are able during this time. DU Lobby Closure EXTENDED Until further notice, the DU lobby will remain closed to the public. Online/Phone Payment and Customer Service Alternatives Payment Options Online at www.decaturutilities.com SmartHub app Phone by calling 256-552-1400 Opt. 3 DU drive-thru lanes Self-Service Kiosks at the Main Office Bank Draft Mail to PO Box 2232, Decatur, AL 35609-2232 Other Customer Service Customers needing to start, stop or transfer utility service can do so remotely by calling 256-552-1440 Opt. 4 or via email to csr@decaturutilities.com NOTE: DU continues to operate with limited staff to limit exposure. Customers may experience longer-than-normal call wait times. DU will make an official announcement via social and traditional media outlets when operations return to normal. Other Important Information: Drinking Water Safety and Quality The COVID-19 virus has no impact on the quality or safety of DU’s drinking water. Our water treatment and disinfection process removes or inactivates viruses of this type. o See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html Do Not Flush Wipes Or Other Materials - Even If Labeled Disposable! DU asks that you do not flush anything other than toilet paper as other materials, even items labeled as “disposable” or “flushable” can clog both your sewer service line as well as DU’s collection mains. Please dispose of any wipes, diapers, swabs, pads, paper towels, facial tissue, bio-pads, and feminine hygiene products in the trash. Scam Attempts Be aware of scammers taking advantage of the COVID-19 outbreak. DU does not demand payment via credit/debit or prepaid card over the phone. Scammers may also play upon COVID-19 fears by offering “alternative” payment methods. Even if DU’s phone number appears in the Caller ID display, any demand of this type is a scam. Customers should hang up and call DU at 256-552-1400 to certify account status and report the scam attempt.