Global Water Resources Inc

Previous wording

The following management’s discussion and analysis of Global Water Resources, Inc.’s (the “Company”, “GWRI”, “we”, or “us”) financial condition and results of operations (“MD&A”) relate to the year ended December 31, 2023 and should be read together with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Current wording

The following management’s discussion and analysis of Global Water Resources, Inc.’s financial condition and results of operations (“MD&A”) relate to the year ended December 31, 2024 and should be read together with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Previous wording

GWRI is a water resource management company that owns, operates, and manages twenty-nine water, wastewater, and recycled water systems in strategically located communities, principally in metropolitan Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. The Company seeks to deploy an integrated approach, referred to as “Total Water Management.” Total Water Management is a comprehensive approach to water utility management that reduces demand on scarce non-renewable water sources and costly renewable water supplies, in a manner that ensures sustainability and greatly benefits communities both environmentally and economically. This approach employs a series of principles and practices that can be tailored to each community:

Current wording

GWRI is a water resource management company that owns, operates, and manages thirty-two water, wastewater, and recycled water public utility systems in strategically located communities, principally in metropolitan Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. We seek to deploy an integrated approach, referred to as “Total Water Management.” Total Water Management is a comprehensive approach to water utility management that reduces demand on scarce non-renewable water sources and costly renewable water supplies, in a manner that ensures sustainability and greatly benefits communities both environmentally and economically. This approach employs a series of principles and practices that can be tailored to each community:

Previous wording

•Employing respected subject matter experts and retaining thought and application leaders;

Current wording

•Employing respected subject matter experts and retaining thought leaders;

Previous wording

•Leading outreach and educational initiatives to ensure all stakeholders including customers, development partners, regulators, and utility staff are knowledgeable on the principles and practices of the Total Water Management approach; and

Current wording

•Leading outreach and educational initiatives to ensure all stakeholders including customers, development partners, municipalities, regulators, and utility staff are knowledgeable on the principles and practices of the Total Water Management approach; and

Previous wording

There was a trend of positive growth in new connections during 2022. For 2023, growth continued at a moderate rate during the first half of the year with the second half exhibiting increases in the rate of connection growth. According to the most recent U.S. Census estimates, the Phoenix metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”) is the 11th largest MSA in the U.S. and had an estimated population of 5.0 million, an increase of 3.5% over the 4.8 million people reported in the 2020 Census. Metropolitan Phoenix continues to grow due to its comparatively affordable housing, excellent weather, large and growing universities, a diverse employment base, and low taxes. The Employment and Population Statistics Department of the State of Arizona predicts that the Phoenix metropolitan area will have a population of 5.8 million people by 2030 and 6.5 million by 2040. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, Arizona’s employment rate increased by 2.0%, ranking the state in the top twenty nationally for job growth.

Current wording

We continue to experience an increasing rate of organic growth evidenced by our year over year organic increase in active connections (i.e., exclusive of acquisition related growth) of 4.4% as of December 31, 2024 as compared to 2.6% for the same period in 2023. According to the most recent U.S. Census estimates, the Phoenix metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”) is the 10th largest MSA in the U.S. and had an estimated population of 5.1 million, an increase of 4.6% over the 4.8 million people reported in the 2020 Census. Metropolitan Phoenix continues to grow due to its favorable employment opportunities, excellent weather, large and growing universities, a diverse employment base, and low taxes. The Employment and Population Statistics Department of the State of Arizona predicts that the Phoenix metropolitan area will have a population of 5.8 million people by 2030 and 6.5 million by 2040. Arizona’s job growth increased by 1.7% during 2024 as compared to the same period for the prior year, ranking the state in the top twenty nationally as of December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

Despite a general slowdown in housing for the Phoenix metropolitan area primarily due to inflation and increased interest rates, management believes that we are well-positioned to benefit from the growth expected in the Phoenix metropolitan area due to the availability of lots, existing infrastructure in place within our services areas, and increased activity related to multi-family developments.

Current wording

Management believes that Global Water is well-positioned to benefit from the growth expected in the Phoenix metropolitan area due to the availability of lots, existing infrastructure in place within the company’s service areas, and increased activity related to multi-family developments.

Previous wording

According to the W.P. Carey School of Business Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Real Estate Consensus Panel (the “Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel”), the single-family housing market experienced a weakness in permits during 2022 and 2023, however, the outlook for single-family housing is improving. The Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel anticipates single-family permit increases in 2024 due to the combination of the improvement shown in the second half of 2023 with the expectations of modestly declining mortgage rates in 2024. During both 2022 and 2023, multi-family permits trended upwards adding stability to the market.

Current wording

According to the W.P. Carey School of Business Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Real Estate Consensus Panel (the “Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel”), the single-family housing market in the Phoenix metropolitan area has experienced a weakness in permits since 2021; however, the outlook for single-family housing is improving. The Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel anticipates single-family permit increases in 2025. During 2024, multi-family permits trended upwards. Management believes that we are well-positioned to benefit from the growth expected in the Phoenix metropolitan area due to the availability of lots, existing infrastructure in place within our service areas, and increased activity related to multi-family developments.

Previous wording

The Company is subject to economic regulation by the state regulator, the ACC. The U.S. federal and state governments also regulate environmental, health and safety, and water quality matters. The Company continues to execute on the strategy to optimize and focus the Company in order to provide greater value to our customers and shareholders by aiming to deliver predictable financial results, making prudent capital investments, and focusing our efforts on earning an appropriate rate of return on our investments.

Current wording

We are subject to economic regulation by the state regulator, the ACC. The U.S. federal and state governments also regulate environmental, health and safety, and water quality matters. We continue to execute on our strategy to optimize and focus the Company in order to provide greater value to our customers and shareholders by aiming to deliver predictable financial results, making prudent capital investments, and focusing our efforts on earning an appropriate rate of return on our investments.

Previous wording

Population and community growth in the metropolitan Phoenix area served by our utilities have a direct impact on our earnings. An increase or decrease in our active service connections will affect our revenues and variable expenses in a corresponding manner. As of December 31, 2023, active service connections increased 5,521, or 9.8%, to 61,791 compared to 56,270 active service connections as of December 31, 2022, primarily due to the acquisition of Farmers Water Co. (“Farmers”) and organic growth in our service areas. Approximately 89.3% of the 61,791 active service connections are serviced by our Global Water - Santa Cruz Water Company, Inc. (“Santa Cruz”) and Global Water - Palo Verde Utilities Company, Inc. (“Palo Verde”) utilities as of December 31, 2023.

Current wording

Population and community growth in the metropolitan Phoenix area served by our utilities have a direct impact on our earnings. An increase or decrease in our active service connections will affect our revenue and variable expenses in a corresponding manner. As of December 31, 2024, active service connections increased 2,729, or 4.4%, to 64,520 compared to 61,791 active service connections as of December 31, 2023, primarily due to organic growth in our service areas. Approximately 89.6% of the 64,520 active service connections are serviced by our GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde utilities as of December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

On February 1, 2023, the Company acquired all of the equity of Farmers, an operator of a water utility with service area in Pima County, Arizona. The acquisition added approximately 3,300 active water service connections and approximately 21.5 square miles of service area in Sahuarita, Arizona and the surrounding unincorporated area of Pima County at the time of the acquisition. Refer to Note 15 - “Acquisitions” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional details.

Current wording

On February 1, 2023, the Company acquired all of the equity of Farmers Water Co., an operator of a water utility with service area in Pima County, Arizona. The acquisition added approximately 3,300 active water service connections and approximately 21.5 square miles of service area in Sahuarita, Arizona and the surrounding unincorporated area of Pima County at the time of the acquisition.

Previous wording

We are subject to extensive regulation of our rates by the ACC, which is charged with establishing rates based on the provision of reliable service at a reasonable cost while also providing an opportunity to earn a fair rate of return on rate base for investors of utilities. The ACC uses a historical test year to evaluate whether the plant in service is used and useful, to assess whether costs were prudently incurred, and to set “just and reasonable” rates. Rate base is typically the depreciated original cost of the plant in service (net of contributions in aid of construction (“CIAC”) and advances in aid of construction (“AIAC”) which are funds or property provided to a utility under the terms of a main extension agreement, the value of which may be refundable), that has been determined to have been “prudently invested” and “used and useful”, although the reconstruction cost of the utility plant may also be considered in determining the rate base. The ACC also decides on an applicable capital structure based on actual or hypothetical analyses. The ACC determines a “rate of return” on that rate base, which includes the approved capital structure and the actual cost of debt and a fair and reasonable cost of equity based on the ACC’s judgment. The overall revenue requirement for rate making purposes is established by multiplying the rate of return by the rate base and adding reasonably incurred operating expenses for the test year, depreciation, and any applicable pro forma adjustments.

Current wording

We are subject to extensive regulation of our rates by the ACC, which is charged with establishing rates based on the provision of reliable service at a reasonable cost while also providing an opportunity to earn a fair rate of return on rate base for investors of utilities. The ACC uses a historical test year to evaluate whether the plant in service is used and useful, to assess whether costs were prudently incurred, and to set “just and reasonable” rates. Rate base is typically the depreciated original cost of the plant in service (net of CIAC and AIAC, which are funds or property provided to a utility under the terms of a main extension agreement, the value of which may be refundable), that has been determined to have been “prudently invested” and “used and useful”, although the reconstruction cost of the utility plant may also be considered in determining the rate base. The ACC also decides on an applicable capital structure based on actual or hypothetical analyses. The ACC determines a “rate of return” on that rate base, which includes the approved capital structure and the actual cost of debt and a fair and reasonable cost of equity based on the ACC’s judgment. The overall revenue requirement for rate making purposes is established by multiplying the rate of return by the rate base and adding reasonably incurred operating expenses for the test year, depreciation, and any applicable pro forma adjustments.

Previous wording

To ensure an optimal combination of access to water and water conservation balanced with a fair rate of return for investors, our water utility operating revenue is based on two components: a fixed fee and a consumption or volumetric fee. For our water utilities, the fixed fee, or “basic service charge,” provides access to water for residential usage and has generally been set at a level to produce approximately 50% of total water revenue. The volumetric fee is based on the total volume of water supplied to a given customer after the minimum number of gallons, if any, covered by the basic service charge, multiplied by a price per gallon set by a tariff approved by the ACC. A discount to the volumetric rate applies for customers that use less than an amount specified by the ACC. For all investor-owned water utilities, the ACC has, as a policy matter, required the establishment of inverted tier conservation-oriented rates, meaning that the price of water increases as consumption increases. For wastewater utilities, wastewater collection, and treatment can be based on volumetric or fixed fees. Our wastewater utility services are billed based solely on a fixed fee, determined by the size of the water meter installed. Recycled water is sold on a volumetric basis with no fixed fee component.

Current wording

To ensure an optimal combination of access to water and water conservation balanced with a fair rate of return for investors, our water utility operating revenue is based on two components: a fixed fee and a consumption or volumetric fee. For our water utilities, the fixed fee, or “basic service charge,” provides access to water for residential usage and has generally been set at a level to produce approximately 50% of total water revenue. The volumetric fee is based on the total volume of water supplied to a given customer after the minimum number of gallons, if any, covered by the basic service charge, multiplied by a price per gallon set by a tariff approved by the ACC. A discount to the volumetric rate applies for customers that use less than an amount specified by the ACC. For all investor-owned water utilities, the ACC has, as a policy matter, required the establishment of inverted tier conservation-oriented rates, meaning that the price of water increases as consumption increases. For wastewater utilities, wastewater collection and treatment can be based on volumetric or fixed fees. Our wastewater service is billed based solely on a fixed fee, determined by the size of the water meter installed. Recycled water is sold on a volumetric basis with no fixed fee component.

Previous wording

We are required to file rate cases with the ACC to obtain approval for a change in rates. Rate cases and other rate-related proceedings can take a year or more to complete. As a result, there is frequently a delay, or regulatory lag, between the time of a capital investment or incurrence of an operating expense increase and when those costs are reflected in rates. We believe it is common industry practice to file for a rate increase every three to five years. Refer to “—Rate Case Activity” below and Note 2 – “Regulatory Decision and Related Accounting and Policy Changes” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional information.

Current wording

We are required to file rate cases with the ACC to obtain approval for a change in rates. Rate cases and other rate-related proceedings can take a year or more to complete. As a result, there is frequently a delay, or regulatory lag, between the time of a capital investment or incurrence of an operating expense increase and when those costs are reflected in rates. We believe it is common industry practice to file for a rate increase every three to five years. Refer to “—Rate Regulation Updates” below and Note 3 – “Regulatory Matters” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional information.

Previous wording

Additionally, our water and wastewater utility operations are subject to extensive regulation by U.S. federal, state, and local regulatory agencies that enforce environmental, health, and safety requirements, which affect all of our regulated subsidiaries. Environmental, health and safety, and water quality regulations are complex and change frequently, and they have tended to become more stringent over time. Although it is difficult to project the ultimate costs of complying with pending or future requirements, we do not expect requirements under current regulations to have a material impact on our operations or financial condition, although it is possible new methods of treating drinking water may be required if additional regulations become effective in the future. For example, on March 14, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) announced the proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (“NPDWR”) for the treatment of six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or compounds (“PFAS”).

Current wording

Additionally, our water and wastewater utility operations are subject to extensive regulation by U.S. federal, state, and local regulatory agencies that enforce environmental, health, and safety requirements, which affect all of our regulated subsidiaries. Environmental, health and safety, and water quality regulations are complex, change frequently, and have tended to become more stringent over time. Although it is difficult to project the ultimate costs of complying with pending or future requirements, we do not expect requirements under current regulations to have a material impact on our

Previous wording

Our water and wastewater services require significant production resources and therefore result in significant production costs. Although we are permitted to recover these costs through the rates we charge, regulatory lag can decrease our margins and earnings if production costs or other operating expenses increase significantly before we are able to recover them through increased rates. Our most significant costs include labor, chemicals used to treat water and wastewater, and power used to operate pumps and other equipment. Power and chemical costs can be volatile. However, we employ a variety of technologies and methodologies to minimize costs and maximize operational efficiencies.

Current wording

Our water and wastewater service requires significant production resources and therefore results in significant production costs. Although we are permitted to recover these costs through the rates we charge, regulatory lag can decrease our margins and earnings if production costs or other operating expenses increase significantly before we are able to recover them through increased rates. Our most significant costs include labor, chemicals used to treat water and wastewater, and power used to operate pumps and other equipment. Power and chemical costs can be volatile. However, we employ a variety of technologies and methodologies to minimize costs and maximize operational efficiencies.

Previous wording

Also, customer usage of water and recycled water is affected by weather conditions, particularly during the summer. Our water systems generally experience higher demand in the summer due to the warmer temperatures and increased usage by customers for irrigation and other outdoor uses. However, summer weather that is cooler or wetter than average generally suppresses customer water demand and can have a downward effect on our operating revenue and operating income. Conversely, when weather conditions are extremely dry, our business may be affected by government-issued drought-related warnings and/or water usage restrictions that would artificially lower customer demand and reduce our operating revenue.

Current wording

Also, customer usage of water and recycled water is affected by weather conditions, particularly during the summer. Our water systems generally experience higher demand in the summer due to the warmer temperatures and increased usage by customers for irrigation and other outdoor uses. However, summer weather that is cooler or wetter than average generally suppresses customer water demand and can have a downward effect on our operating revenue and operating income. Conversely, when weather conditions are extremely dry, our business may be affected by government-issued drought-

Previous wording

The limited geographic diversity of our service areas makes the results of our operations more sensitive to the effect of local weather extremes. The second and third quarters of the year are generally those in which water services revenue and wastewater services revenues are highest. For additional information and risks associated with weather and seasonality, see “Risk Factors,” included in Part I, Item 1A of this report.

Current wording

The limited geographic diversity of our service areas makes the results of our operations more sensitive to the effect of extreme weather patterns. The second and third quarters of the year are generally those in which water service revenue and wastewater service revenue are highest. For additional information and risks associated with weather and seasonality, see “Risk Factors,” included in Part I, Item 1A of this report.

Previous wording

-46- meet future demands in our service areas. At present, groundwater (and recycled water derived from groundwater) is the primary water supply available to us. In addition, regulatory restrictions on the use of groundwater and the development of groundwater wells, lack of available water rights, drought, overuse of local or regional sources of water, protection of threatened species or habitats, or other factors, including climate change, may limit the availability of ground or surface water. Additionally, in the majority of the Phoenix Active Management Area, the Arizona Department of Water Resources (“ADWR”) has paused the issuance of new certificates of assured water supply based on groundwater and paused modifications of any designations of assured water supply for the increase in groundwater. Approximately 1.76% of the Company’s water connections are located within the Phoenix Active Management Area. We believe that we have an adequate supply of water to service our current demand and growth for the foreseeable future in our service areas. For additional information and risks associated with the access to and quality of water supply, see “Risk Factors,” included in Part I, Item 1A of this report.

Current wording

In many areas of Arizona (including certain areas that we service), water supplies are limited and, in some cases, current usage rates exceed sustainable levels for certain water resources. We currently rely predominantly on the pumping of groundwater and the generation and delivery of recycled water for non-potable uses to meet future demands in our service areas. At present, groundwater (and recycled water derived from groundwater) is the primary water supply available to us. In addition, regulatory restrictions on the use of groundwater and the development of groundwater wells, lack of available water rights, drought, overuse of local or regional sources of water, protection of threatened species or habitats, or other factors, including climate change, may limit the availability of ground or surface water. Additionally, in the majority of the Phoenix Active Management Area, the ADWR has paused the issuance of new certificates of assured water supply based on groundwater and paused modifications of any designations of assured water supply for the increase in groundwater. Approximately 1.76% of the Company’s water connections are located within the Phoenix Active Management Area. We believe that we have an adequate supply of water to service our current demand and growth for the foreseeable future in our service areas. For additional information and risks associated with the access to and quality of water supply, see “Risk Factors,” included in Part I, Item 1A of this report.

Previous wording

During the fourth quarter 2023, the Company notified the ACC of its intention to file a rate case for Farmers during 2024 and for Santa Cruz and Palo Verde in 2025.

Current wording

In February 2025, the Company notified the ACC of its intention to file a rate case for its GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde utilities in 2025. The GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde rate case will be based on a test year ending December 31, 2024 with updates for changes in post-test year plant. The Company is in the process of preparing for the rate case and intends to request a net increase to its annual revenue requirement of $6.5 million, to be implemented with the first phase beginning in May 2026 and the second phase in January 2027.

Previous wording

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022

Current wording

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

Previous wording

The following table summarizes results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands, except for share amounts):

Current wording

Financial and operational data for the Company years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 is summarized in the following table (in thousands, except for share amounts):

Previous wording

Operating Expenses– The following table summarizes operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (in thousands):

Current wording

Operating Expenses– The following table summarizes operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):

Previous wording

Operations and Maintenance– Operations and maintenance costs, consisting of personnel costs, production costs (primarily chemicals and purchased electrical power), maintenance costs, and property tax, increased approximately $1.8 million, or 16.3%, to $12.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $10.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Current wording

Operations and Maintenance– Operations and maintenance expenses primarily consist of personnel costs, production costs (primarily chemicals and purchased electrical power), maintenance costs, and property tax.

Previous wording

General and Administrative –General and administrative costs include the day-to-day expenses of office operations, personnel costs, legal and other professional fees, insurance, rent, and regulatory fees. These costs increased $0.5 million, or 3.1%, to $16.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $16.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Current wording

General and Administrative –General and administrative expenses primarily consist of the day-to-day expenses of office operations, personnel costs, legal and other professional fees, insurance, rent, and regulatory fees.

Previous wording

The Company’s capital resources are provided by internally generated cash flows from operations as well as debt and equity financing. Additionally, its regulated utility subsidiaries receive advances and contributions from customers, home builders, and real estate developers to partially fund construction necessary to extend service to new areas. The Company uses capital resources primarily to:

Current wording

The Company’s capital resources are primarily provided by internally generated cash flows from operations, debt and equity financing and certain government grants. External debt financing is provided primarily through the issuance of long-term debt or utilization of the Company’s $15.0 million Revolver. Additionally, its regulated utility subsidiaries receive advances and contributions from customers, home builders, and real estate developers to partially fund construction necessary to extend service to new areas.

Previous wording

On October 26, 2023, the Company entered into a note purchase agreement for the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $20 million of 6.91% Senior Secured Notes due on January 3, 2034. Pursuant to the terms of the note purchase agreement, the Company issued the notes on January 3, 2024.

Current wording

On October 26, 2023, the Company entered into a note purchase agreement for the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $20 million of 6.91% Notes due on January 3, 2034. Pursuant to the terms of the note purchase agreement, the Company issued the notes on January 3, 2024.

Previous wording

Refer to Note 11 — “Debt” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional information.

Current wording

Refer to Note 1 - “Description of Business, Basis of Presentation, Significant Accounting Policies, and Recent Accounting Pronouncements” and Note 10 - “Debt” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional details on the WIFA grant and WIFA Note.

Previous wording

On June 24, 2016, the Company issued two series of senior secured notes with a total principal balance of $115.0 million at a blended interest rate of 4.55%. Series A carries a principal balance of $28.8 million and bears an interest rate of 4.38% over a twelve-year term, with the principal payment due on June 15, 2028 (the “Series A Notes”). Series B carries a principal balance of $86.3 million and bears an interest rate of 4.58% over a 20-year term, with the principal payment due on June 15, 2036 (the “Series B Notes”). The Series B Notes were interest only for the first five years, with $1.9 million principal payments paid semiannually thereafter beginning December 2021. The proceeds of the Series A Notes and the Series B Notes were primarily used to refinance the Company’s long-term tax exempt bonds, pursuant to an early redemption option at 103%, plus accrued interest, as a result of the Company’s U.S. initial public offering of its common stock in May 2016.

Current wording

On June 24, 2016, the Company issued two series of senior secured notes with a total principal balance of $115.0 million at a blended interest rate of 4.55%. Series A Notes carry a principal balance of $28.8 million and bear an interest rate of 4.38% over a twelve-year term, with the principal payment due on June 15, 2028 (the “Series A Notes”). Series B carries a principal balance of $72.8 million and bear an interest rate of 4.58% over a 20-year term, with the principal payment due on June 15, 2036 (the “Series B Notes” and collectively with the Series A Notes and the 6.91% Notes, the “Senior Secured Notes”).

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, the Company has no notable near-term cash expenditures, other than the principal payments for its Series B senior secured notes in the amount of $1.9 million due in both June 2024 and December 2024. While specific facts and circumstances could change, the Company believes that with the cash on hand and the ability to draw on its $15.0 million revolving line of credit, it will be able to generate sufficient cash flows to meet its operating cash flow requirements and capital expenditure plan, as well as remain in compliance with its debt covenants, for the next twelve months and beyond.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, the Company has no notable near-term cash expenditures, other than the anticipated acquisition of seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson for a purchase price of $8.4 million and the principal payments for its Series B Notes in the amount of $1.9 million due in both June 2025 and December 2025. While specific facts and circumstances could change, the Company believes that with the cash on hand and the ability to draw on its $15.0 million Revolver, it will be able to generate sufficient cash flows to meet its operating cash flow requirements and capital maintenance needs, whilst remaining in compliance with its debt covenants for the next twelve months and beyond. In addition, the Company may choose to raise additional funds from time to time through equity or debt financing agreements, which may or may not be needed for additional working capital, capital expenditures and/or strategic acquisitions for 2025 and beyond. However, there are currently no commitments in place for future financing, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain funds on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. Additional issuances of equity or convertible debt securities will result in dilution to our stockholders.

Previous wording

In March 2014, the Company initiated a dividend program to declare and pay a monthly dividend. On November 30, 2024, the Company announced a monthly dividend increase from 0.02483 per share (0.29796 per share annually) to 0.02508 per share (0.30096 per share annually). Although the Company expects that monthly dividends will be declared and paid for the foreseeable future, the declaration of any dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s board of directors and is subject to legal requirements and debt service ratio covenant requirements (refer to “—Senior Secured Notes” and “—Revolving Credit Line”).

Current wording

The Company maintains a monthly dividend program. On November 27, 2024, the Company announced a monthly dividend increase to $0.02533 per share ($0.30396 per share annually) from $0.02508 per share ($0.30096 per share annually). Although the Company expects that monthly dividends will be declared and paid for the foreseeable future, the declaration of any dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s board of directors and is subject to legal requirements and debt service ratio covenant requirements.

Previous wording

Cash flows provided by operating activities are used for operating needs and to meet capital expenditure requirements. The Company’s future cash flows from operating activities will be affected by economic utility regulation, infrastructure investment, growth in service connections, customer usage of water, compliance with environmental health and safety standards, production costs, weather, and seasonality.

Current wording

Cash flows provided by operating activities are used for operating needs and to meet capital expenditure requirements. The Company’s future cash flows from operating activities will be affected by economic utility regulation, growth in service connections, customer usage of water, compliance with environmental health and safety standards, production costs, weather, and seasonality.

Previous wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash provided by operating activities totaled approximately $25.4 million compared to $23.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The $2.1 million increase in cash from operating activities was primarily driven by the improvement in net income and increased depreciation expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, as well as an increase in current liabilities for 2023 as compared to the prior year. All of which was partially offset by an overall decrease in noncurrent liabilities largely attributable to the reduction of deferred revenue - ICFA resulting from revenue recognition during 2023 that did not occur during 2022.

Current wording

For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $21.8 million compared to $25.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The $3.6 million decrease in cash from operating activities was primarily driven by an increase other noncurrent liabilities for year ended December 31, 2024, as well as lower net income in the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

The net cash used in investing activities totaled approximately $28.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $34.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The $5.6 million decrease in cash used in investing activities was primarily driven by a decrease in capital expenditures of $11.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, partially offset by the $6.2 million cash paid for the acquisition of Farmers (net of cash acquired) in 2023.

Current wording

The net cash used in investing activities totaled approximately $32.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $28.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The $3.9 million increase in cash used in investing activities was primarily driven by an increase in capital expenditures of $10.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, partially offset by the $6.2 million cash paid for the acquisition of GW-Farmers (net of cash acquired) in February 2023.

Previous wording

The Company continues to invest capital prudently in existing, core service areas where the Company is able to deploy the Total Water Management model as this includes any required maintenance capital expenditures and the construction of new water and wastewater treatment and delivery facilities. The projected capital expenditures and other investments are subject to periodic review and revision to reflect changes in economic conditions and other factors. As a result, the Company may adjust capital expenditures to correspond with any substantial changes in demand for housing in service areas.

Current wording

The Company continues to invest capital prudently in existing, core service areas where the Company is able to deploy the Total Water Management model as this includes any required maintenance capital expenditures and the construction of new water and wastewater treatment and delivery facilities. The projected capital expenditures and other investments are subject to periodic review and revision to reflect changes in economic conditions and other factors. As a result, the Company may adjust capital expenditures to correspond with any substantial changes in demand for new development in its service areas. Currently, the Company anticipates an elevated level of capital expenditures in 2025 relative to 2024.

Previous wording

The Company carries various property, casualty, and financial insurance policies with limits, deductibles, and exclusions consistent with industry standards. However, insurance coverage may not be adequate or available to cover unanticipated losses or claims. The Company is self-insured to the extent that losses are within the policy deductible or exceed the amount of insurance maintained. Such losses could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s short-term and long-term financial condition and the results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

-48- or claims. The Company is self-insured to the extent that losses are within the policy deductible or exceed the amount of insurance maintained. Such losses could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s short-term and long-term financial condition and the results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

The Series A Notes and the Series B Notes require the Company to maintain a debt service coverage ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated debt service of at least 1.10 to 1.00. Consolidated EBITDA is calculated as net income plus depreciation and amortization, taxes, interest, and other non-cash charges net of non-cash income. Consolidated debt service is calculated as interest expense, principal payments, and dividend or stock repurchases. The Series A Notes and the Series B Notes also contain a provision limiting the payment of dividends if the Company falls below a debt service ratio of 1.25. However, for the quarter ended June 30, 2021 through the quarter ending March 31, 2024, the debt service ratio drops to 1.20. The debt service ratio increases to 1.25 for any fiscal quarter during the period from and after June 30, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with its financial debt covenants relating to the Series A Notes and the Series B Notes.

Current wording

The Company’s Senior Secured Notes and Revolver (collectively, the “debt securities”) require the Company to maintain a debt service coverage ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated debt service of at least 1.10 to 1.00. Consolidated EBITDA is calculated as net income plus depreciation and amortization, taxes, interest and other non-cash charges net of non-cash income. The debt securities also contain a provision limiting the payment of dividends if the Company falls below a debt service ratio of 1.25. Further, the foregoing covenants are subject to various qualifications and limitations as set forth in each of the debt securities’ respective agreements. The debt securities are subject to certain customary events of default after which they could be declared due and payable if not cured within the grace period or, in certain circumstances, could be declared due and payable immediately. As of December 31, 2024, the Company was in compliance with its financial debt covenants under the Senior Secured Notes and the Northern Trust Loan Agreement.

Previous wording

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

Current wording

Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Previous wording

In the course of normal business activities, the Company enters into a variety of contractual obligations and commitments. Some result in direct obligations on the Company’s balance sheet while others are firm commitments or commitments based on uncertainties and undetermined execution times.

Current wording

In the course of normal business activities, the Company enters into a variety of contractual obligations and commitments. Some result in direct obligations on the Company’s balance sheet while others are firm commitments or commitments based on uncertainties and undetermined execution times. Refer to Note 17 — “Commitments and Contingencies” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional details.

Previous wording

A discussion of recently issued and recently issued but not yet adopted accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1 – “Basis of Presentation, Corporate Transactions, Significant Accounting Policies, and Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Recent Accounting Pronouncements” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report and is incorporated herein by reference.

Current wording

A discussion of recently issued and recently issued but not yet adopted accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1 – “Description of Business, Basis of Presentation, Significant Accounting Policies, and Recent Accounting Pronouncements” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this report and is incorporated herein by reference.

Previous wording

Because the Company’s subsidiaries are regulated businesses, the Company is subject to the authoritative guidance for accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation. Application of this guidance requires accounting for certain transactions in accordance with regulations adopted by the ACC. Utility companies defer costs and credits on the balance sheet as regulatory assets and liabilities when it is probable that those costs and credits will be recognized in the ratemaking process in a period different from the period in which they would have been reflected in income by an unregulated company. These deferred regulatory assets and liabilities are then reflected in the income statement in the period in which the same amounts are reflected in the rates charged for service.

Current wording

ASC Topic 980, Regulated Operations (“ASC 980”) provides that rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the way in which regulators establish rates, if the rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and if the competitive environment makes it probable that such rates can be billed and collected. As the Company’s subsidiaries are businesses regulated by the ACC, the Company is subject to ASC 980 for accounting for the effects of this regulation. Utility companies defer costs and credits on the balance sheet as regulatory assets and liabilities when it is probable that those costs and credits will be recognized in the ratemaking process in a period different from the period in which they would have been reflected in income by an unregulated company. These deferred regulatory assets and liabilities are then reflected in the income statement in the period in which the same amounts are reflected in the rates charged for service.