Global Water Resources, Inc.
For the period ended Mar 31, 2025. Filed May 14, 2025.
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A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.
Mar 31, 2025 · Filed May 14, 2025
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-Q
Period ended 2024-09-30; filed 2024-11-06.
0001434728-24-000381
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-Q
Period ended 2025-03-31; filed 2025-05-14.
0001434728-25-000169
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 183 previous paragraphs and 126 current paragraphs.
52 unchanged; 35 reworded; 36 added; 88 removed; 8 previous and 3 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 6 previous and 4 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (36)
Current report
A significant contributor to our organic growth is the affordability of housing options in and around the City of Maricopa as compared to Phoenix. Redfin reported the median sale price of a home in March 2025 in the City of Maricopa was approximately $359,000 as compared to approximately $470,000 in the Phoenix housing market. According to the latest data from the National Association of Homebuilders-Wells Fargo, housing affordability remained low through 2024 in the Phoenix MSA.
Current report
According to the First Quarter 2025 Forecast Update from the Economic and Business Research Center at the University of Arizona (“EBRC”), the Phoenix MSA is forecasted to continue driving Arizona growth. The EBRC’s expected job growth in 2025 for the Phoenix MSA is 2.2%, which it expects will far outpace U.S. gains. In addition, the EBRC expects Phoenix to add residents at a rapid pace (compared to the nation) in 2025 and 2026 with expected growth rates of 1.6% and 1.5%, respectively. However, the Seidman Research Institute’s Latest State Rankings report indicates that Arizona’s broader job market experienced a slight contraction of 0.4% beginning in 2025 compared to job growth in 2024.
Current report
In October 2024, the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity projected Arizona to add 478,000 jobs over 2022 levels, with an annual growth rate of 1.4% through 2032, exceeding the national average. According to the Arizona Commerce Authority, Arizona also received $50 billion in investment during 2024, including contributions from major industry players such as Taiwan Semiconductor, Intel and Procter & Gamble.
Current report
In the first quarter of 2025, the Arizona State University - W.P. Carey School of Business Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Real Estate Consensus Panel (the “Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel”) revised its forecast for single family permits in 2025 and 2026 for the Phoenix MSA. Compared to the prior projections in the fourth quarter of 2024, the revised single family permit figures are 27,333 for 2025 and 26,825 for 2026, reflecting moderate decreases of 7.8% and 10.2%, respectively. The revised forecast for 2025 is still slightly higher than the 27,156 permits for 2024.
Current report
We continue to monitor the impact of business and economic conditions, including inflationary pressures and changes in tariff policy, on our business and operations. While these conditions did not have a material effect on our business operations, results of operations, cash flows, and financial position for the three months ended March 31, 2025, we are unable to predict the ultimate extent to which our business operations, results of operations, cash flows, and financial position could be impacted.
Current report
-22- increases, but this recovery may be affected by “regulatory lag”, that is, the delay between the utility’s test year and the issuance of a rate order approving new rates.
Current report
Lead and Copper Rule Improvements
Current report
Our capital improvement plan is evidenced by our growth in rate base. Our estimated rate base as of December 31, 2024 was $212.5 million, an increase of $95.5 million or 82% from our rate base included in our 2019 general rate case (Decision No. 78644). Estimated rate base for 2024 includes all investments in plant as well as estimated post-test year plant as part of the 2024 rate case application for our GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde utilities, including our Southwest Plant and estimated 2025 investments.
Current report
Rate Regulation Updates
Current report
In December 2024, the ACC approved a policy statement (the “Formula Rate Policy Statement”) allowing for Formula Rate Plans (“Formula Rates”) in future rate cases. Formula Rates generally enable utilities to adjust their rates on a semi-regular basis–often annually–based on a pre-approved formula related to specific cost inputs. The Company believes that Formula Rates benefit both customers and utilities by allowing for smaller, more predictable changes in rates for customers as well as minimizing the “regulatory lag” by allowing utilities to recover (or pass back to customers) costs more promptly and invest in infrastructure more efficiently. Utilities with approved Formula Rates will be required to have a full rate case before the ACC at least every five years, unless an alternative schedule is established.
Current report
On March 5, 2025, GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde each filed a general rate case application with the ACC for water and wastewater rates, respectively. The GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde rate case is based on a test year ending December 31, 2024, with updates for changes in post-test year plant. The rate case includes a request for rate increases that, if approved by the ACC, would result in a net annual revenue increase of approximately $6.5 million, to be implemented with the first phase beginning in May 2026 and the second phase in January 2027. The requested rate increases would reflect a proposed resolution of matters relating to the Company’s Southwest Plant with the ACC, including recovery of the Company’s investment and premature revenue collection with respect to the Southwest Plant. The Company also proposed the use of Formula Rates to address revenue increases in the future, that if approved, would allow costs and investments to be updated annually in a smaller, more gradual fashion.
Current report
Like all of its rate case proceedings, there can be no assurance that the ACC will approve the Company’s requests, including for Formula Rates, during the proceedings, and the ACC could take other actions as a result of a rate case or Formula Rate proposal. Further, it is possible that the ACC may determine to decrease future rates, whether as a result of the resolution of matters relating to the Company’s Southwest Plant or otherwise. There can also be no assurance as to the timing of when any approved rate increase (if any) would go into effect.
Current report
The following table describes current rate case actions as applicable for each of our regulated utilities (in millions):
Current report
(2)The final phase-in of rates under this rate case was effective January 1, 2024.
Current report
(4)Rates are to be phased-in over three periods, starting with 50% of the increase effective on May 1, 2025 and subsequent 25% portions of the increase effective November 1, 2025 and May 1, 2026.
Current report
For a full summary of the Company’s current regulatory activity, including other approved details of recent rate cases, refer to Note 3 – “Regulatory Matters” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report.
Current report
The Company is not organized around a specific product or service, geographic region, or regulatory environment. Refer to Note 17 — “Business Segment Information” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements(unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional segment information.
Current report
Revenue –Operating revenue is substantially derived from contracts with customers to provide regulated water, wastewater, and recycled water service based upon tariff rates approved by the ACC. Regulated service revenue consists of amounts billed to customers based on approved fixed monthly fees and consumption based fees, as well as unbilled revenue, which is estimated revenue from the last meter reading date to the end of the accounting period utilizing historical customer data recorded. Unregulated revenue represents revenue that is not subject to the ratemaking process of the ACC. Unregulated revenue (if any) is primarily related to the revenue recognized on a portion of ICFA funds received.
Current report
The following table summarizes revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):
Current report
The increase in regulated revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2024 was primarily attributable to the organic growth in active water and wastewater connections, increased water and recycled water consumption and higher rates for GW-Saguaro, resulting from the GW-Saguaro general rate case, effective July 2024. The increased consumption was predominantly driven by the increase in active connections and higher usage from irrigation, construction and commercial customers.
Current report
Higher utilities, chemicals and repairs were primarily due to increased quantities of chemicals and power purchased to operate pumps and other related equipment as a result of increased consumption.
Current report
The increase in other operations and maintenance expenses was primarily driven by higher contract IT and labor services as a result of contracts that began in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Current report
Depreciation and amortization - The increase for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2024 was substantially attributable to an increase in depreciable fixed assets as well as additional amortization from new leased vehicles and office space in the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to the same period in the prior year.
Current report
Other Expense – The increase in other expense was substantially attributable to lower income associated with Buckeye growth premiums of $0.2 million that resulted from fewer new meter connections in the area for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. In addition, the Company had higher net interest expense of $0.1 million offset by higher AFUDC-Equity of $0.1 million. Refer to Note 18 — “Other, Net” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional information regarding the Buckeye growth premiums.
Current report
Significant sources of funds from historical financing activity included:
Current report
Sales of Equity Securities
Current report
The Company has historically completed multiple equity raises through sales of its common stock in both public and private offerings, including the recent transaction below.
Current report
On March 27, 2025, the Company completed a public offering of 3,220,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $10.00 per share, which included 420,000 shares issued and sold to the underwriters following the exercise in full of their option to purchase additional shares of common stock. Certain existing stockholders, including certain directors and/or their affiliates, purchased an aggregate of 1,439,200 shares of common stock at the public offering price. The public offering resulted in approximately $32.2 million of gross proceeds or $30.8 million of net proceeds, after deducting underwriting discounts, commissions and offering expenses..
Current report
Refer to Note 9 - “Equity” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional details.
Current report
WIFA Grant and Note
Current report
In December 2023, the Company’s GW-Farmers utility was awarded a $1.6 million grant from WIFA to replace manual read meters with advanced metering infrastructure smart meters.
Current report
In April 2024, the Company’s Global Water - Rincon Water Company, Inc. utility (now part of GW-Saguaro) entered into a loan agreement with WIFA for a 4.911% WIFA Note (the “WIFA Note”) in the aggregate principal amount of $2.4 million, maturing April 2044. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the WIFA Note to improve the utility’s infrastructure, including enhancements to the fluoride treatment system and other projects. A portion of the WIFA Note is forgivable, which the Company accounts for as CIAC.
Current report
Revolver
Current report
The Company maintains a revolving credit facility with Northern Trust pursuant to a loan agreement entered into between the parties (as amended, the “Northern Trust Loan Agreement”). On April 14, 2025, the Company and Northern Trust entered into a sixth amendment to the Northern Trust Loan Agreement to, among other things, (i) extend the scheduled maturity date from July 1, 2026 to May 18, 2027 and (ii) increase the maximum principal amount available for borrowing under the Revolver from $15.0 million to $20.0 million. Pursuant to the Northern Trust Loan Agreement, the amounts outstanding bear interest, payable monthly, at a rate equal to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 2.00%. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Revolver.
Current report
March 31, 2025, compared to a $20.0 million issuance of senior secured notes and subsequent repayment of $2.3 million in Revolver borrowings in the three months ended March 31, 2024.
Current report
Debt Covenants
Removed paragraphs (88)
Previous report
•economic environment;
Previous report
-24- areas. Approximately 89.6% of the 63,889 active service connections are serviced by our Global Water - Santa Cruz Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Santa Cruz”) and Global Water - Palo Verde Utilities Company, Inc. (“GW-Palo Verde”) utilities as of September 30, 2024.
Previous report
On April 10, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) finalized the National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (“NPDWR”) establishing legally enforceable levels, called maximum contaminant levels (“MCLs”), for six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or compounds (“PFAS”) in drinking water. The EPA also finalized health-based, non-enforceable maximum contaminant level goals for these PFAS. The final rule requires that public water systems, such as the Company, must monitor for these PFAS and have three years to complete initial monitoring, followed by ongoing compliance monitoring. Public water systems must also provide the public with information on the levels of these PFAS in their drinking water beginning in 2027. Public water systems have until 2029 to implement solutions that reduce these PFAS if monitoring shows that drinking water levels exceed the applicable MCLs. Beginning in 2029, public water systems that have PFAS in drinking water which violate one or more of these MCLs must take action to reduce levels of these PFAS in their drinking water and must provide notification to the public of the violation.
Previous report
Farmers Designation of Assured Water Supply (“DAWS”)
Previous report
The Company’s GW-Farmers utility filed a DAWS application with the ADWR on June 30, 2023 to facilitate future growth in the utility’s service area. The Company anticipates a final decision from the ADWR in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Previous report
Recent Rate Case and Regulatory Activity
Previous report
Below is a summary of certain rate case and regulatory activity. Refer to Note 2 – “Regulatory Decision and Related Accounting and Policy Changes” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional information regarding the Company’s rate case and regulatory activity.
Previous report
2024 Farmers Rate Case
Previous report
On June 27, 2024, Global Water-Farmers Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Farmers”), one of the Company’s regulated utilities, filed a rate case application with the ACC for increased water rates based on a 2023 test year with updates for changes in post-test year plant through December 31, 2024. The application requests, among other things, a revenue increase of approximately $1.3 million phased-in over two periods as well as recovery of the acquisition premium related to our Farmers Water Co. acquisition. On July 25, 2024, ACC Utilities Division Staff determined our application to be administratively complete and estimates its testimony regarding the application will be filed in early December 2024. There can be no assurance that the ACC will approve the requested rate increase or the requested recovery of the acquisition premium, and the ACC could take other actions as a result of the rate case. Further, it is possible that the ACC may determine to decrease future rates.
Previous report
Acquisition of Seven Systems from City of Tucson
Previous report
On May 10, 2024, GW-Ocotillo filed an application with the ACC for approval to acquire seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson. On June 10, 2024, ACC Utilities Division Staff found the application administratively complete and estimates its testimony regarding the application will be filed on or about November 5, 2024. The Company expects to complete the acquisition in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and approval by the ACC.
Previous report
2025 Santa Cruz and Palo Verde Rate Case
Previous report
Certificate of Convenience & Necessity Extension - Maricopa Business Park
Previous report
In May 2024, the Company’s GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde utilities filed an application with the ACC for a CC&N extension. The Administrative Law Judge issued a Recommended Opinion and Order on October 18, 2024, which is scheduled to be heard by the ACC at the November 6, 2024 open meeting.
Previous report
Southwest Plant Accounting Order and Bill Credit
Previous report
On July 3, 2023, the Company’s GW-Palo Verde and GW-Santa Cruz utilities filed an application with the ACC for approval of an accounting order to defer and record as a regulatory asset the depreciation expense recorded for the Company’s Southwest Plant, plus the carrying cost at the authorized rate of return set in GW-Palo Verde’s and GW-Santa Cruz’s most recent rate order, until the plant is considered for recovery in the next GW-Palo Verde and GW-Santa Cruz rate case. There can be no assurance, however, that the ACC will approve the application as submitted, and the ACC could take other actions regarding the application.
Previous report
In January 2024, the Company discovered that approximately $7.8 million of construction costs for the Southwest Plant had been prematurely included as “plant in service” for rate making purposes in 2007 and were reflected in the calculation
Previous report
-28- of customer rates in Decision No. 71878 (September 15, 2010). Those costs were also included as “plant in service” in Decision No. 74364 (February 26, 2014) and Decision No. 78644 (July 27, 2022). The Company disclosed this circumstance to the ACC on March 1, 2024, and on April 25, 2024, GW-Palo Verde filed an application with the ACC requesting a monthly bill credit for customers that would be in place until the conclusion of the next GW-Palo Verde rate case. The ACC issued Decision No. 79424 on July 18, 2024 approving the bill credit with an effective date of August 1, 2024, which will reduce revenue earned subsequent to the order by approximately $570,000 annually. The bill credit will be in place until the conclusion of the next GW-Palo Verde rate case, which Decision No. 79424 requires GW-Palo Verde to file no later than December 31, 2025. The ACC may take further action during the next GW-Palo Verde rate case. Such action may include requiring the Company to reduce rates further going forward or taking other actions that would be unfavorable to the Company.
Previous report
Decision No. 79383 - Issued June 20, 2024 - Saguaro Rate Case
Previous report
The ACC also approved: (i) the consolidation of water rates to one single rate for these utilities; (ii) acquisition premiums relating to the Company’s acquisitions of its Global Water-Mirabell Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Mirabell”), Global Water-Lyn Lee Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Lyn Lee”), Global Water-Francesca Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Francesca”), Global Water-Tortolita Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Tortolita”), Global Water-Rincon Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Rincon”), and Global Water-Las Quintas Serenas Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Las Quintas Serenas”) utilities, each located in Pima County, which increase the rate base for such utilities and result in an increase in the annual collective revenue requirement; (iii) the Company’s ability to annually adjust rates to flow through certain changes in tax expense, primarily related to income taxes, without the necessity of a rate case proceeding; (iv) a sustainable water surcharge, which will allow semiannual surcharges to be added to customer bills based on verified costs of new water resources; (v) a capital structure matching the Company’s previous rate case of 55% equity with a 9.6% return on equity; and (vi) a depreciation expense accounting deferral for GW-Rincon.
Previous report
Decision No. 78644 - Issued July 27, 2022
Previous report
On July 27, 2022, the ACC issued Decision No. 78644 pursuant to which the ACC approved, among other things, a collective annual revenue requirement increase of approximately $2.2 million (including acquisition premiums) based on 2019 test year service connections, and phased-in over approximately two years. The effective date of the final phase was January 1, 2024.
Previous report
Farmers Water Co. Acquisition
Previous report
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 report
Segment Reporting
Previous report
Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing operating performance. In consideration of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification 280, Segment Reporting, the Company is not organized around specific products and services, geographic regions, or regulatory environments. The Company currently operates in one geographic region within the State of Arizona, wherein each operating utility operates within the same regulatory environment.
Previous report
While the Company reports revenue, disaggregated by service type, on the face of its condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited), the Company does not manage the business based on any performance measure at the individual revenue stream level. The Company does not have any customers that contribute more than 10% to the Company’s revenues or revenue streams. Additionally, the chief operating decision maker uses consolidated financial information to evaluate performance, which is the same basis on which he communicates results and performance to the Company’s board of directors. It is upon this consolidated basis from which he bases all significant decisions regarding the allocation of the Company’s resources on a consolidated level. Based on the information described above and in accordance with the applicable literature, management has concluded that the Company is currently organized and operated as one operating and reportable segment.
Previous report
Revenues –The following table summarizes revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):
Previous report
Total revenues decreased $0.2 million, or 1.5%, to $14.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $14.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in revenue was primarily attributable to the recognition of $0.5 million in infrastructure coordination and financing agreement (“ICFA”) related revenue during the prior year period that did not recur in the current period, partially offset by an increase of $0.3 million in regulated revenue primarily attributable to the increase in wastewater and recycled water service revenue largely as a result of a 5.0% increase in active wastewater connections.
Previous report
Water Service– Water service revenue was $7.5 million for both the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.
Previous report
Water service revenue associated with the basic service charge, excluding miscellaneous charges, increased $0.2 million, or 5.1%, to $3.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $3.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase was primarily due to the 4.4% growth in active water connections and a rate increase resulting from the Saguaro Rate Case that was effective August 1, 2024.
Previous report
Active water connections increased 4.4% to 35,464 as of September 30, 2024 from 33,976 as of September 30, 2023, primarily due to organic growth in our service areas.
Previous report
Water service revenue based on consumption decreased $0.1 million, or 4.3%, to $4.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $4.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The moderate decrease in revenue was primarily the result of reduced consumption in irrigation and construction customers, all partially offset by a rate increase from the Saguaro Rate Case that was effective August 1, 2024 and the organic growth discussed above.
Previous report
Water consumption was consistent at 1.3 billion gallons for both the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. The consumption decreases in irrigation, commercial and construction customers were largely offset by consumption increases in residential, multi-family and lake customers.
Previous report
Wastewater and Recycled Water Service– Wastewater and recycled water service revenue increased $0.3 million, or 5.1%, to $6.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $6.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023.
Previous report
Wastewater service revenue increased $0.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2023, driven by a 5.0% increase in active wastewater connections from 27,060 as of September 30, 2023 to 28,425 as of September 30, 2024.
Previous report
Recycled water service revenue, which is based on the volume of recycled gallons delivered, increased $0.1 million, or 29.4%, to $0.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $0.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase was primarily driven by a 309.2 million gallon, or 113.8%, increase in consumption during the period.
Previous report
The increase in wastewater and recycled water service revenue was partially offset by $0.1 million in bill credits related to the Company’s Southwest Plant. Refer to Note 2 - “Regulatory Decision and Related Accounting and Policy Changes” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional information.
Previous report
Total personnel expenses decreased $0.1 million, or 10.9%, to $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $1.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in personnel expenses was primarily related to a decrease of 51.7% in medical insurance expenses and a 2.3% decrease in salary and wages.
Previous report
Total personnel expenses increased $0.2 million, or 7.8%, to $2.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $1.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase was primarily related to higher hiring and relocation costs and deferred compensation expense, partially offset by lower medical insurance expenses. Refer to Note 11 — “Deferred Compensation Awards” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional information.
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Reworded paragraphs (35)
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 three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and should be read together with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Part I, Item 1 of this report.
Current 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 three months ended March 31, 2025 and should be read together with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Part I, Item 1 of this report.
Previous wording
Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are forward-looking in nature and may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the words “believes”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “expects”, “intends”, “projects”, “estimates”, “objective”, “goal”, “focus”, “aim”, “should”, “could”, “may”, and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include future estimates described in “Business Outlook”, “Factors Affecting our Results of Operations”, and “Liquidity and Capital Resources”. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about our strategies; expectations about future business plans, prospective performance, growth, and opportunities; future financial performance; regulatory and Arizona Corporation Commission (“ACC”) proceedings, decisions, and approvals, such as the anticipated benefits resulting from rate decisions, including any collective revenue increases due to new water and wastewater rates, our beliefs and expectations pertaining to ACC actions relating to our Southwest Plant, as well as the outcome and timing of our rate case and other applications with the ACC; our plans relating to future filings of our rate cases with the ACC; acquisition plans and our ability to complete additional acquisitions, including the anticipated acquisition of seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson and the expected increase in active water service connections resulting from such acquisition; population and growth projections; technologies, including expected benefits from implementing such technologies; revenues; metrics; operating expenses; trends relating to our industry, market, population and job growth, and housing permits; the adequacy of our water supply to service our current demand and growth for the foreseeable future; liquidity and capital resources; plans and expectations for capital expenditures; cash flows and uses of cash; dividends; depreciation and amortization; tax payments; our ability to repay indebtedness and invest in initiatives; the anticipated impact and resolutions of legal matters; the anticipated impact of new or proposed laws, including regulatory requirements, tax changes, and judicial decisions; and the anticipated impact of accounting changes and other pronouncements.
Current wording
Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are forward-looking in nature and may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the words “believes”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “expects”, “intends”, “projects”, “estimates”, “objective”, “goal”, “focus”, “aim”, “should”, “could”, “may”, and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include future estimates described in “Business Outlook”, “Factors Affecting our Results of Operations”, and “Liquidity and Capital Resources”. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about our strategies; expectations about future business plans, prospective performance, growth, and opportunities; future financial performance; regulatory and ACC proceedings, decisions and approvals, such as the anticipated benefits resulting from rate decisions, including any collective revenue increases due to new water and wastewater rates, our beliefs and expectations pertaining to ACC actions relating to our Southwest Plant, as well as the outcome, timing and other statements regarding our plans, expectations and estimates relating to our rate case and other applications with the ACC, including estimated rate base; our plans relating to future filings of our rate cases with the ACC; acquisition plans and our ability to complete additional acquisitions, including the anticipated acquisition of seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson and the expected increase in active water service connections resulting from such acquisition; population and growth projections; technologies, including expected benefits from implementing such technologies; revenue; metrics; operating expenses; trends relating to our industry, market, population and job growth, and housing permits; the adequacy of our water supply to service our current demand and growth for the foreseeable future; liquidity and capital resources; plans and expectations for capital expenditures; cash flows and uses of cash; dividends; depreciation and amortization; tax payments; our ability to repay indebtedness and invest in initiatives; the anticipated impact and resolutions of legal matters; the anticipated impact of new or proposed laws, including regulatory requirements, tax changes, and judicial decisions; and the anticipated impact of accounting changes and other pronouncements.
Previous wording
Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results. They are based on numerous assumptions that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide range of uncertainties and business risks. Consequently, actual results may vary materially from what is contained in a forward-looking statement. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including risks related to legal, regulatory, and legislative matters; risks related to our business and operations; risks related to market and financial matters; risk related to technology; risks related to the ownership of our common stock; and certain general risks, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. These and other factors are discussed in the risk factors described in Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the “2023 Form 10-K”) as updated from time to time in our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Additional risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, whether all conditions precedent in the asset purchase agreement to acquire the seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson will be satisfied, including the receipt of ACC approval, and other risks to consummation of the acquisition, including circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the asset purchase agreement and the risk that the transaction will not be consummated without undue delay, cost or expense, or at all. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this report. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Current wording
Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results. They are based on numerous assumptions that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide range of uncertainties and business risks. Consequently, actual results may vary materially from what is contained in a forward-looking statement. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including risks related to legal, regulatory, and legislative matters; risks related to our business and operations; risks related to market and financial matters; risks related to technology; and risks related to the ownership of our common stock, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. These and other factors are discussed in the risk factors described in Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “2024 Form 10-K”) as updated from time to time in our subsequent filings with the SEC. Additional risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, whether all conditions precedent in the asset purchase agreement to acquire the seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson will be satisfied, and other risks to consummation of the acquisition, including circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the asset purchase agreement and the risk that the transaction will not be consummated without undue delay, cost or expense, or at all. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this report. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Previous wording
GWRI is a water resource management company that owns, operates, and manages thirty-two 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
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 4.7% as of September 30, 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 2.2% during the first nine months of 2024 as compared to the same period for the prior year, ranking the state in the top ten nationally as of September 30, 2024.
Current wording
We continue to experience organic growth evidenced by our year-over-year organic increase in active connections (i.e., exclusive of acquisition related growth) of 4.3% as of March 31, 2025. According to the 2024 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 5.2 million, an increase of 7.0% over the 4.8 million people reported in the 2020 Census. The Phoenix MSA continues to grow due to its 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.
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”), interest rate shock negatively impacted permit activity in the Phoenix metropolitan area, particularly between July 2022 and June 2023. Further, the Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel concluded that the subsequent recovery from that interest rate shock resulted in permit activity increasing by more than 44% in the first five months of 2024. The Greater Phoenix Blue Chip Panel anticipates single family permit growth by more than 27% for 2024 as a whole. Further, single family permits in the City of Maricopa increased 13% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as compared to the same period in the prior year. 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.
Current wording
While single family permits in the City of Maricopa decreased 42% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared to the same period in the prior year, management believes that we are well-positioned to benefit from the long-term growth expected in the Phoenix MSA due to the availability of lots, existing infrastructure in place within our service areas, and increased activity related to multi-family developments.
Previous 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.
Current wording
We are subject to 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 September 30, 2024, active service connections increased 2,853, or 4.7%, to 63,889 compared to 61,036 active service connections as of September 30, 2023, primarily due to organic growth in our service
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 March 31, 2025, active service connections increased 2,712, or 4.3%, to 65,163 compared to 62,451 active service connections as of March 31, 2024, primarily due to organic growth in our service areas. Approximately 89.7% of the 65,163 active service connections are serviced by our GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde utilities as of March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Effective April 25, 2024, Global Water - Ocotillo Water Company, Inc. (“GW-Ocotillo”), formerly Global Water - 2024 Acquisition A, Inc. and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into an asset purchase agreement with the City of Tucson, pursuant to which GW-Ocotillo will acquire seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson serving approximately 2,200 water service connections in an all-cash transaction for a purchase price of $8.4 million. The isolated public water systems are located in and around Pima County. The Company expects to complete the acquisition in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and approval by the ACC. The estimated rate base of the seven water systems is approximately $7.8 million.
Current wording
Effective April 25, 2024, GW-Ocotillo, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into an asset purchase agreement with the City of Tucson, pursuant to which GW-Ocotillo agreed to acquire seven isolated public water systems from the City of Tucson in an all-cash transaction for a purchase price of $8.4 million. The subject public water systems are located in and around unincorporated Pima County and serve approximately 2,200 water service connections. GW-Ocotillo’s application for a CC&N to provide water service to these water systems was approved by the ACC on January 22, 2025. The Company expects to complete the acquisition in mid-2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The estimated rate base of the seven water systems is approximately $7.8 million.
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 in the state’s 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
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 and Regulatory Activity” below and Note 2 – “Regulatory Decision and Related Accounting and Policy Changes” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 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 the rates we charge to customers. 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 Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional information.
Previous wording
We are committed to compliance with the NPDWR and are in process of complying with the first requirement of the rule mandating initial monitoring for all of our utilities. The Company expects that compliance with the NPDWR will require increased capital expenditures for PFAS-contaminated water treatment and other operating costs. If other newer or stricter standards are introduced in the future, they could also increase our operating expenses. We generally expect to recover expenses associated with compliance for environmental and health and safety standards through rate increases, but this recovery may be affected by regulatory lag.
Current wording
For example, on April 10, 2024, the EPA finalized the NPDWR, establishing legally enforceable MCLs for six PFAS in drinking water. We are committed to compliance with the NPDWR and are in process of complying with the first requirement of the rule mandating initial monitoring for all of our utilities. The Company expects that compliance with the NPDWR will require increased capital expenditures for PFAS-contaminated water treatment and other operating costs. If other newer or stricter standards are introduced in the future, they could also increase our operating expenses. We generally expect to recover expenses associated with compliance for environmental and health and safety standards through rate
Previous wording
In April 2024, the federal Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation approved the consolidation of approximately 500 separate cases against multiple defendant manufacturers into a single multi-district civil class action lawsuit known as Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (“AFFF”) Products Liability Litigation MDL No. 2873 (the “AFFF MDL”). The AFFF MDL was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina (the “Court”) and is intended to resolve claims associated with PFAS contamination in water systems from the manufacture and widespread use of AFFF, which is believed to be a significant source of PFAS contamination in water systems. AFFF containing PFAS (and until 2002, perfluorooctanoic acid (“PFOA”), a related compound) was widely used in fire suppression systems, firefighting vehicles, and at fire training facilities nationwide. The Company is in the class of plaintiffs in the AFFF MDL, and settlement talks continue to progress with several defendants. Any settlement reached in the AFFF MDL will be subject to the final approval of the Court. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of the AFFF MDL, including any decision or resolution thereof, timing, or the ultimate amounts, if any, involved.
Current wording
In April 2024, the federal Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation approved the consolidation of approximately 500 separate cases against multiple defendant manufacturers into a single multi-district civil class action lawsuit (“MDL”) known as Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (“AFFF”) Products Liability Litigation MDL No. 2873 (the “AFFF MDL”). The AFFF MDL was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina (the “Court”) and is intended to resolve claims associated with PFAS contamination in water systems from the manufacture and widespread use of AFFF, which is believed to be a significant source of PFAS contamination in water systems. AFFF containing PFAS (and until 2002, perfluorooctanoic acid, a related compound) was widely used in fire suppression systems, firefighting vehicles, and at fire training facilities nationwide. The Company is in the class of plaintiffs in the AFFF MDL, and settlement talks continue to progress with several defendants. Any settlement reached in the AFFF MDL will be subject to the final approval of the Court. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of the AFFF MDL, including any decision or resolution thereof, timing, or the ultimate amounts that may be realized, if any.
Previous wording
Our ability to meet the existing and future water demands of our customers depends on an adequate supply of water. Drought, overuse of sources of water, the protection of threatened species or habitats, or other factors may limit the availability of ground and surface water.
Current wording
Our ability to meet the existing and future water demands of our customers depends on the availability of an adequate supply of water. Drought, overuse of sources of water, the protection of threatened species or habitats, or other factors may limit the availability of ground and surface water.
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
-23- 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.
Previous 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 (and are likely to continue to rely) 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 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
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. 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 the 2024 Form 10-K.
Previous wording
On June 20, 2024, the ACC issued Decision No. 79383 relating to each of the rate case applications filed by seven of the Company’s regulated utilities for increased water rates based on a 2022 test year. Decision No. 79383 approved, among other things, a collective annual revenue increase of approximately $351,000. The approved rates will be phased-in over five periods with the first increase effective July 1, 2024. The subsequent four increases will be effective on January 1 of each subsequent year, with the majority of the revenue increase phased in by January 1, 2025. To the extent that the number of active service connections has increased and continues to increase from 2022 levels, the additional revenues may be greater than the amount set forth above. On the other hand, if active connections decrease or the Company experiences declining usage per customer, the Company may not realize all of the anticipated revenues.
Current wording
(1)Approved incremental annual revenue represents the aggregate annual revenue increase following the final phase-in period. To the extent that the number of active service connections has increased and continues to increase from a rate case’s test year levels, the additional revenues may be greater than the amounts set forth above. On the other hand, if active connections decrease or the Company experiences declining usage per customer, the Company may not realize all of the anticipated revenues.
Previous wording
During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company notified the ACC of its intention to file a rate case for GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde in 2025. The GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde rate case is anticipated to be based on a test year ending December 31, 2024 with updates for changes in post-test year plant. There can be no assurance, however, that the ACC will approve the application as submitted and the ACC could take other actions regarding the application.
Current wording
(5)In March 2025, the Company filed a general rate case application with the ACC related to its GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde utilities. The GW-Santa Cruz and GW-Palo Verde rate case is based on a test year ending December 31, 2024, with updates for changes in post-test year plant. A procedural schedule has been set, with testimony expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Previous wording
The following table summarizes results of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands, except for share amounts):
Current wording
Financial and operational data for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 is summarized in the following table (in thousands, except for share amounts):
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, decreased $0.2 million, or 4.0%, to $3.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $3.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023.
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 less than $0.1 million, 0.9%, to $4.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $3.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023.
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. General and administrative expenses were up slightly by approximately $62,000 or 1.5%.
Previous wording
Income Tax Expense –Income tax expense of $1.1 million was recorded for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to income tax expense of $0.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The primary driver for the change was the increase in pre-tax income for three months ended September 30, 2024.
Current wording
Income Tax Expense –The primary driver for the decrease in income tax expense was lower pre-tax income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2024.
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 $20.0 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 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%. The Series A notes (the “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 B notes (the “Series B Notes”) carry 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. Additionally, on January 3, 2024, the Company issued $20.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.91% Senior Secured Notes due on January 3, 2034 (the “6.91% Notes” and collectively with the Series A Notes and the Series B Notes, the “Senior Secured Notes”). The 6.91% Notes accrue interest at 6.91% per annum from the date of issuance, payable semi-annually on January 3 and July 3 of each year, beginning on July 3, 2024, with a balloon payment due on January 3, 2034.
Previous wording
As of September 30, 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 and the principal payments for its Series B Notes (as defined below) in the amount of $1.9 million due in both December 2024 and June 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 revolving line of credit, it will be able to generate sufficient cash flows to meet its operating cash flow requirements and capital expenditure plan, including for any strategic acquisitions, as well as remain in compliance with its debt covenants, for the next twelve months and beyond.
Current wording
As of March 31, 2025, the Company has no notable near-term cash expenditures, other than for its capital improvement plan, 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 $20.0 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 arrangements, 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
(0.29796 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 with dividends currently set at $0.02533 per share ($0.30396 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 nine months ended September 30, 2024, net cash provided by operating activities totaled approximately $15.8 million compared to $22.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The $6.9 million decrease in cash from operating activities was primarily driven by an increase in accounts payable and other current liabilities for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as a result of increased accruals for capital expenditures, as well as lower net income in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Current wording
For the three months ended March 31, 2025, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $7.5 million compared to $8.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The change in cash from operating activities was primarily driven by lower net income in the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2024.
Previous wording
The net cash used in investing activities totaled approximately $19.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $24.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The $5.7 million decrease in cash used in investing activities was primarily driven by the $6.2 million cash paid for the acquisition of GW-Farmers (net of cash acquired) in February 2023, partially offset by an increase in capital expenditures of $0.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Current wording
The net cash used in investing activities totaled approximately $15.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to $5.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The $9.5 million increase in cash used in investing activities was the result of an increase in capital expenditures tied to the Company’s capital expenditure plan for 2025.
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 new development in its 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 net cash provided by financing activities totaled $20.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, an $18.5 million increase, as compared to the $2.3 million in cash provided by financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. This increase was primarily driven by the $20 million received from the senior secured notes issuance in January 2024 and $2.1 million borrowings under our 2024 Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (“WIFA”) loan in the third quarter of 2024, partially offset by $2.3 million of repayments on the Company’s revolving line of credit in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as compared to less than $0.1 million of net borrowings against the line of credit in the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Current wording
The net cash provided by financing activities totaled $29.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, an $14.0 million increase, as compared to the $15.8 million in cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2024. This increase was primarily driven by the $31.0 million issuance of common, net of issuance costs, in the three months ended
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. As of September 30, 2024, 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 March 31, 2025, the Company was in compliance with its financial debt covenants under the Senior Secured Notes and the Northern Trust Loan Agreement.
Previous wording
A summary of contractual obligations is included in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources – Contractual Obligations” of our 2023 Form 10-K. Except for our January 2024 issuance of 6.91% Notes and borrowings under our 2024 WIFA loan, there have been no additional material changes in our reported contractual obligations from those disclosed in our 2023 Form 10-K. Refer to Note 9 - “Debt” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional details.
Current wording
A summary of contractual obligations is included in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources – Contractual Obligations” of our 2024 Form 10-K. There have been no material changes in our reported contractual obligations from those disclosed in our 2024 Form 10-K.
Previous wording
A summary of our critical accounting estimates is included in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources – Critical Accounting Estimates” of our 2023 Form 10-K. There were no material changes made as of September 30, 2024.
Current wording
A summary of our critical accounting estimates is included in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Critical Accounting Estimates” of our 2024 Form 10-K. There were no material changes made as of March 31, 2025.
Rearranged current paragraphs (3)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
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 months due to the warmer temperatures and increased
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
(3)The first increase for GW-Saguaro was effective July 1, 2024. The subsequent four increases will be effective on January 1 of each subsequent year. The majority of the revenue increase was phased in on January 1, 2025.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The Company uses capital resources primarily to:
Rearranged previous paragraphs (8)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
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 the 2023 Form 10-K.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Comparison of Results of Operations for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
The following table summarizes results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands, except for share amounts):
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Operating Expenses– The following table summarizes operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
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 $0.6 million, or 6.9%, to $10.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $9.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
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 $0.4 million, or 3.2%, to $12.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $11.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Additionally, on January 3, 2024, the Company issued $20.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.91% Senior Secured Notes due on January 3, 2034 (the “6.91% Notes” and collectively with the Series A Notes and the Series B Notes, the “Senior Secured Notes”). The 6.91% Notes accrue interest at 6.91% per annum from the date of issuance, payable semi-annually on January 3 and July 3 of each year, beginning on July 3, 2024, with a balloon payment due on January 3, 2034.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
-37- consolidate with another entity; dispose of or transfer assets; make distributions or other restricted payments (including dividends); engage in certain affiliate transactions; and change the nature of the business. The foregoing covenants are subject to various qualifications and limitations as set forth in the Northern Trust Loan Agreement. Pursuant to the Northern Trust Loan Agreement, the revolving credit facility is subject to certain customary events of default after which the revolving credit facility 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 September 30, 2024, the Company was in compliance with its financial debt covenants under the Northern Trust Loan Agreement.