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Commending and Expressing Appreciation to Krishna Kumar on the Occasion of His Retirement from Madison Water Utility
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WHEREAS, Krishna Kumar commenced his service to the City of Madison as Water Utility General Manager on June 1, 2021; AND
WHEREAS, while managing unique challenges and concerns during the middle of a global pandemic, Krishna immediately began working to establish relationships with Water Utility staff at all levels, leading to important structural and cultural changes; AND
WHEREAS, with his sound financial strategies, Krishna successfully navigated two rate filings with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, developed a new Water Utility long-range financial plan, secured perpetual funding for critical pipeline replacement projects via expense depreciation, and leveraged Safe Drinking Water Loan Program funding and financing for multiple projects; AND
WHEREAS; while developing new water rate structures, Krishna remained committed to affordability for Water Utility customers by being instrumental to the creation of MadCAP - the first water affordability program to be approved by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission; AND
WHEREAS, thanks to these efforts, a Water Utility debt reduction of approximately $120 million was achieved under Krishna’s leadership, effectively rebalancing the Water Utility’s overall debt-to-equity ratio to a favorable level; AND
WHEREAS, during his time as general manager, Krishna oversaw substantial and critical projects such as the creation of a PFAS treatment facility at Unit Well 15, water system resilience improvements, updated lead service line inventory reporting, a joint transmission pipeline project with Dane County, and major facility improvements at Unit Wells 12 and 19; AND
WHEREAS, in total, system operations achievements under Krishna’s watch include more than 1,000 combined water main and service leak repairs, over 2,500 miles of unidirectional water mains flushed, nearly 60,000 valves and hydrants inspected, and hundreds of valve and hydrant replacements; AND
WHEREAS, after more than 45 billion gallons of water pumped and approximately 150,000 water quality tests performed, no reportable water quality violations were ever discovered while Krishna served in his role; AND
WHEREAS, Krishna oversaw staff development that includes the hiring, appointing, and mentoring of each of Madison Water Utility’s current section managers - leaving a lasting legacy of professionalism, institutional knowledge, and operational excellence; AND
WHEREAS, Krishna’s time as general manager has been exemplary, and reflective of his steadfast commitment to public service and the mission of Madison Water Utility;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Water Utility Board hereby formally commends Krishna Kumar for his service and leadership, expresses its sincere appreciation for his numerous contributions to Madison Water Utility and the City of Madison, and extends its best wishes to him for health, fulfillment, and success in his retirement.