EXHIBIT 13
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BUILDING BLOCKS
2001 ANNUAL REPORT
Birmingham
Utilities, Inc.
This formula brings your Company a financial foundation unmatched by any water
utility of its size.
ENSURE GROWTH
Shareholder value has increased more than 200 percent since 1996
Dividend increases of 132 percent since 1996
A strong balance sheet allows financial flexibility
Create stability within the Company as a whole
CREATE OPPORTUNITIES
Establish holding company, "BIW Limited"
Ventures with other regulated companies
Sub-contracting for private developers
Investment into the Company's utility plant
CHAIRWOMAN'S LETTER
I am pleased to report to you that in 2001 your Company has nearly completed a
strategy that began in 1996 to sell its inventory of Class III excess water
company lands. This was accomplished when the State of Connecticut, Department
of Environmental Protection ("DEP") purchased a 570 acre parcel of land in
Ansonia and Seymour and two parcels of land totaling 322 acres in Seymour. The
sale price was $5,500,000 for the 570 acre sale and $4,338,000 for the 322 acre
sale. The Company is also grateful to the City of Ansonia who contributed
$250,000 toward the purchase of the 570 acre parcel. Since 1996 your Company has
sold over 1,800 acres of Class III properties. With the exception of two small
parcels purchased by the City of Ansonia and the Town of Seymour for two new
schools, all of the property sold will remain as open space and will ultimately
be used for passive recreation. The Company still has a 30 acre parcel of Class
III property remaining and will file an application with the Department of
Public Utility Control ("DPUC") to sell this parcel to the DEP during the first
quarter of 2002. The sale price will approximate $575,000.
These completed sales bring to your Company a financial foundation unmatched by
any water utility of its size. This strength will allow your management team the
opportunity to explore strategic opportunities that exist in the marketplace.
The cash received from these land transactions will be invested into the
Company's utility plant in an effort to upgrade the Company's water system,
while the strong balance sheet will allow the financial flexibility to explore
opportunities to increase shareholder value.
In order to better take advantage of these market opportunities, your Company
announced on January 17, 2002 that it has filed an application with the DPUC to
establish a holding company. The name of that Company will be "BIW Limited."
This name was chosen to link our Company's name with its trading symbol "BIW" on
the American Stock Exchange. We believe it is important to have the proper
corporate structure in place to facilitate growth opportunities. Those
opportunities may include ventures with other regulated companies or the
establishment of new non-regulated subsidiaries.
Your Company in 2001 did begin the process on a limited basis by initiating
three new ventures. The Company launched its "Linebacker Program", which is a
maintenance plan for its customers to protect customer owned service lines from
leaks or breaks. I am pleased to report that 8 percent of our customer base has
signed up for this program in its initial year. This compares favorably with
other water utilities who have launched similar programs in Connecticut. Your
Company has also worked with the Connecticut Water Company in a program to
install customer services for that company for residents who front their water
mains but are not connected to their system. This program, which began during
the last few months of 2001, was a very successful endeavor for your Company as
well as the Connecticut Water
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Company. Lastly, our construction department successfully completed the
installation of new water mains for private developers in the Town of
Wallingford, and the Cities of Derby and Danbury. These ventures, which were
conducted on a very limited basis, brought the Company increased revenues of
$236,000. We believe an opportunity exists to expand these types of activities
but those opportunities are best suited for a non-regulated environment. We
believe the holding company structure will support these endeavors.
It was reported to you in 2001 that your Company would work toward achieving
value for the Company's Class I and II properties. This issue came to the
forefront as a transaction was signed with the DEP in 2001 by another water
utility in Connecticut to sell those types of properties. I am pleased to report
that through efforts made by your Company along with the Connecticut Water
Company and the Torrington Water Company legislation was introduced and passed
in 2001 by the Connecticut General Assembly that will facilitate valuation of
these properties. This legislation authorizes the DEP to conduct an evaluation
of lands of Class A water utilities to determine the resource value and
potential desirability of such lands for purchase for open space, passive
outdoor recreation or natural resource conservation or preservation. This
evaluation may eventually lead to the outright sale and transfer of ownership of
the property, or the transfer of development rights to the DEP. A memorandum of
understanding between the three companies and the DEP is now being prepared to
identify the steps necessary to complete this evaluation in a timely manner.
The strategic actions taken and the goals accomplished by your Company over
recent years have positioned your Company in a sound financial environment.
Shareholder value has more than doubled since 1996, including dividend increases
of 132 percent. The benefit of prudent investments made in utility plant over
the last few years will become a component of rate base and the ratemaking
process and customers will benefit as these expenditures will ensure a sound and
efficient water system. We believe we are moving forward, and we are committed
to growing your Company to insure your investment will grow through sound
business opportunities.
As always, feel free to contact me at the Company.
/s/ Betsy Henley-Cohn
Betsy Henley-Cohn
Chairwoman
3
PRESIDENT'S LETTER
The financial results achieved by your Company in 2001 were extraordinary. The
Company's sound and prudent strategy for the careful disposal of land no longer
necessary for water supply has increased shareholder value to record levels.
These sales have simultaneously provided your Company the funds necessary to
transform an aging water system infrastructure while holding water rates at
affordable levels. The strong balance sheet created by the land sales and solid
operating earnings will allow us to review strategic business opportunities.
This commitment to strategic planning is evident by the establishment of a
holding company in 2002.
Net income in 2001 was $5,655,000 compared with $726,000 for 2000. Included in
income for 2001 were net gains attributable to land sales of $5,133,000 while
net income in 2000 included land sale gains of $133,000. The land sale gains in
2001 principally reflect the sale of 892 acres of property in Ansonia and
Seymour to the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection.
Utility operating income, net of prior year's land sale amortizations, has
increased in 2001 by 18 percent to approximately $500,000. Revenues increased in
2001 due to a dry summer and fall period and other income has also increased due
to contract operations. These gains more than offset increases in operating
costs associated with employee benefits, including pension, health care, and
401(k) expense.
The strong financial performance in 2001 has positioned your Company to continue
to focus on shareholder value in the future. Your Company's book value of $8.01
per share at the end of 2001 is 217 percent higher than the book value of $2.53
at December 31, 1996. The Company in 2001 repaid all of its short-term debt of
$2,800,000. With the combination of internally generated funds and the remaining
proceeds from its land sales program, the Company has the available capital
needed to fund its capital improvement program for the next two years. The
Company has also increased its dividend by $.08 per share to $.58 for the year,
a 16 percent increase over the $.50 per share dividend in 2000. The 2001
dividend represents a 132 percent 5-year cumulative increase over the per share
amount paid in 1996. The Company's strong equity position enables financial
flexibility for future capital planning at cost effective rates.
Your Company in 2001 continued to implement its long-range capital program.
Infrastructure replacement, which is critical for all water utilities,
especially in the Northeast, has been aggressively addressed by your Company. We
believe our infrastructure improvements outpace most other water utilities,
especially companies our size. The Company's low service system improvement
program, announced six years ago, has been essentially completed. Our program to
replace all 80 years and older 4-inch water mains with 8-inch or larger mains
continues at a rapid pace. Almost 60 percent of all 4-inch water mains have been
replaced since 1995. We expect to be 75 percent completed by the end of 2002.
Your Company continues to implement improvements that will allow for the more
efficient flow of water throughout the system. The Company in 2001 completed
improvements to its Hill Street pump station. The addition of increased
electrical equipment capabilities and larger pumping impellers will allow that
station to operate 30 percent less on a daily basis. Normal operating capacity
has increased, which will be especially useful during peak operating periods.
Operating costs will be reduced and longevity of the pumping station will also
be increased.
4
The Company also expects to complete the Division Street bridge crossing in 2002
with a new 16-inch water main. This improvement, coupled with the Hawkins Street
bridge crossing completed in 2000, will better link the Company's sources of
supply. These improvements along with the installation of key 16 and 12-inch
water mains since 1997 have dramatically increased fire flows needed for fire
protection and domestic service while simultaneously improving water quality and
service. In 2001 the Company was able to deliver over 4 million gallons of water
during the Latex Foam Company fire in just over a four hour period. During this
major catastrophe, firefighters did not need to request additional supply or
additional capacity. Although the building was destroyed, the surrounding
downtown area of Ansonia was unaffected.
In 2002, the Company expects to make major improvements to its well field
buildings in Seymour and Derby. All chemical storage, delivery, and feed areas
of the building will be segregated from the control areas, thereby creating a
safer and more efficient work environment. Chemicals will no longer be
transported by hand as deliveries will now be in bulk.
In 2001, your Company began to explore the opportunity of increasing shareholder
value through new ventures that are related to our core water service business.
We believe these business opportunities exist and will expand these activities
in 2002. The new holding company structure, to be implemented after governmental
and shareholder approvals are received, will support this strategy.
Your Company has accomplished much in 2001, and I look forward to working from
the base of those accomplishments in 2002. I would sincerely like to thank the
Company's Chairwoman, Betsy Henley-Cohn, as well as other members of the Board
of Directors for their support and guidance throughout the year. I would
especially like to thank John "Jack" Keefe, Vice President of Operations, for
his dedication and professionalism that is displayed on a daily basis. And last,
but certainly not least, I thank all other employees who have worked as a team
that has resulted in our meeting our goals in a manner that exceeds industry
standards.
Sincerely,
/s/ John S. Tomac
John S. Tomac
President and Treasurer
5
Sources of Supply
Wells
Located in Derby and Seymour with a safe daily yield of 3.0 million gallons per
day (MGD).
Interconnections
Two interconnections with the South Central Regional Water Authority at the
border of Orange and Derby (the "Grassy Hill Interconnection") and near the
border of Seymour and Ansonia (the "Woodbridge Interconnection"). Annual
purchases of water contracted at a minimum of 600 million gallons a year. Safe
daily yield of Interconnection - 5.0 MGD.
Emergency Supply
Beaver Lake Reservoir System - 2.1 MGD surface water supply.
Customer Base and Demand
9,114 customers, 97% residential and commercial
Water delivered in 2001 - 1.28 Billion Gallons
Average daily demand - 3.52 MGD.
Maximum daily demand in 2001 - 7.45 MGD.
Total safe daily yield - 8.0 MGD.
Workforce
On February 25, 2002, the Company maintained a workforce of 20 full-time
employees, none of whom are affiliated with any union.
Regulation
The Company is subject to the jurisdiction of the following agencies:
Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC)
Matters related to ratemaking, financing, accounting, disposal of property,
issuance of long-term debt and securities and other operational matters.
Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) Water quality, sources of
supply and use of watershed land.
Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Water quality, pollution abatement, diversion of water from streams and
rivers, safety of dams and location, construction and alteration of certain
water facilities.
The Company is also subject to regulation of its water quality under the Federal
Safe Drinking Water Act ("SDWA"). The United States Environmental Protection
Agency has granted to the DPH the primary enforcement responsibility in
Connecticut under the SDWA. The DPH has established regulations containing
maximum limits on contaminants, which have or may have an adverse effect on
health.
6
Financial Highlights
Market For the Registrant's Common Stock and
Related Security Holding Matters
As of December 31, 2001, there were approximately 453 record holders of the
Company's common stock. Approximately 64% of the Company's stock is held in
"nominee" or "street" name. The Company's common stock trades on the American
Stock Exchange under the symbol "BIW". The following table sets forth the
dividend record for the Company's common stock and the range of bid prices for
the last two calendar years. The stock prices are based upon American Stock
Exchange records provided to the Company. The prices given are retail prices.
The Company's Mortgage Bond Indenture under which its First Mortgage Bonds are
issued contains provisions that limit the dividends the Company may pay under
certain circumstances.
Dividend
High Low Paid
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2001 First Quarter $14.00 $12.25 $.145
Second Quarter 15.50 14.00 .145
Third Quarter 17.10 14.25 .145
Fourth Quarter 18.85 15.00 .145
2000 First Quarter $25.00 $13.875 $.125
Second Quarter 15.25 11.375 .125
Third Quarter 15.50 12.50 .125
Fourth Quarter 15.00 11.75 .125
Selected Financial Data
Presented below is a summary of selected financial data for the years 1997
through 2001:
(000's omitted except for per share data) 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Revenues $ 4,616 $ 4,496 $ 4,624 $ 4,395 $ 4,367
Income before Interest Charges 1,033 1,126 1,368 1,170 1,112
Income from Land Dispositions** 5,133 133 -- 3,354 195
Net Income 5,655 726 920 3,911 668
Earnings Per Share-Basic* 3.48 .45 .59 2.55 .44
Earnings Per Share-Diluted* 3.41 .44 .56 2.48 .44
Cash Dividends Declared (Per Share)* .58 .50 .40 .34 .30
Total Assets 22,681 19,958 18,281 19,519 16,491
Long-Term Debt 4,136 4,230 4,324 4,418 5,662
Short-Term Debt 94 2,330 454 94 1,524
Shareholder Equity 13,077 8,277 8,147 7,648 4,097
* Reflects the 2-for-1 stock split that took place on March 18, 1999. All prior
periods have been adjusted to reflect the stock split.
** See Management Discussion and Analysis, Results of Operations - Land
Dispositions.
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Management's Discussion and Analysis
Results of Operations
Overview
The Company recorded net income of $5,655,150 in 2001 as compared to $725,700 in
2000 and $919,897 in 1999. Earnings per share, basic for 2001, 2000 and 1999
were $3.48, $.45 and $.59, respectively. The increase in net income of
$4,929,450 in 2001 is principally a result of the land sales that took place in
the second and third quarters. The decline in net income in 2000 of $194,197 is
principally a result of lower revenues, a reduction in the amortization of prior
year land sales and higher interest charges.
Revenues
Water sales of $4,615,836 in 2001 were $119,384 higher than recorded water sales
of $4,496,452 for 2000. Increased water consumption from all classes of
customers except industrial, due to a dry summer and fall period more than
offset lower industrial consumption due to the loss of a major customer. Water
sales in 2000 of $4,496,452 were $127,365 below water sales of $4,623,817 that
were recorded in 1999. An overall 4% reduction in consumption as a result of a
cool and wet summer period in 2000 was in direct contrast to the hot and dry
summer period in 1999.
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses of $2,558,261 for 2001 are $123,610 higher than operating
expenses of $2,434,651 that occurred in 2000. Increased chemical costs,
transmission and distribution expenses relating to meter and line expense,
health insurance costs, 401(k) expense, pension expense and workers compensation
insurance principally account for the increase. Operating expenses in 2000 of
$2,434,651 are $14,697 lower than operating expenses of $2,449,348 recorded in
1999. A charge for professional fees regarding strategic planning which was
recorded in 1999 did not occur in 2000. This reduction was somewhat offset by
increased workers compensation insurance and increased costs related to
purchased power and fuel.
Maintenance Expenses
Maintenance expenses of $210,417 are $5,704 lower than maintenance expenses of
$216,121 for 2000. Lower water main maintenance expense relating to fewer main
breaks in 2001 is somewhat offset by increased water treatment equipment
maintenance and meter and service line maintenance expense. Maintenance expenses
of $216,121 are $32,865 higher than the level recorded in 1999 of $183,256,
higher meter maintenance expense and the maintenance of general plant account
for this variance.
Depreciation Expense
Depreciation expense of $548,119 in 2001 exceeds depreciation expense of
$509,814 in 2000 by $38,305 due to the continuation of plant additions in 2001.
Depreciation expense in 2000 was $8,501 higher than 1999, also as a result of
utility plant additions.
Taxes other than Income Taxes
Taxes other than income taxes of $328,248 for 2001 are $20,076 lower than the
level of $348,324 recorded for 2000. A reduction in real estate taxes due to the
sale of the property in Ansonia and Seymour in 2001 principally accounts for the
decline. Somewhat offsetting this decline is increased personal property taxes
relating to new plant additions throughout the Company's service territory.
Taxes other than income taxes of $348,324 for 2000 are $27,882 higher than the
1999 expense of $320,442. A change in the depreciation methodology by the City
of Derby which had the effect of significantly increasing the assessed value of
the Company's personal property, and an increasing amount of new plant additions
account for this variance.
Income Taxes
Income taxes on operations of $191,827 recorded in 2001 are $30,486 higher than
the 2000 expense of $161,341 due to an increase in taxable operating earnings.
Income taxes from operations in 2000 of $161,341 have decreased $116,785 from
the 1999 comparable period principally due to a decrease in taxable operating
earnings.
8
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
The Company also incurs income tax liability for gains from land transactions,
both in the year in which they occur and in the later years in which income,
previously deferred in accordance with the DPUC's orders concerning the sharing
of the gains between the Company's shareholders and ratepayers, is recognized by
the Company. Taxes related to gains on land transactions were $2,064,807,
$91,854 and $192,720, in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The Company's total
income tax liability including both the tax on operating income and on land sale
gains was $2,256,634 in 2001, $253,195 in 2000 and $470,846 in 1999.
Land Dispositions
When the Company disposes of land, any gain recognized, net of taxes, is shared
between ratepayers and shareholders based upon a formula approved by the DPUC.
The impact of land dispositions is recognized in two places on the statement of
income.
The statement of income reflects income from the disposition of land (net of
taxes) of $5,133,379 in 2001, and $132,892 in 2000, which represent the
shareholders' immediate share of income from land dispositions occurring in each
year. There were no significant land sales in 1999.
Land disposition income is also recognized in the financial statements as a
component of operating income on the line entitled "Amortization of Deferred
Income on Dispositions of Land." These amounts represent the recognition of
income deferred on land dispositions which occurred in prior years. The
amortization of deferred income on land dispositions, net of tax, was $64,524,
$184,548 and $342,960 for the years 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.
Recognition of deferred income will continue over time periods ranging from
three to fifteen years, depending upon the amortization period ordered by the
DPUC for each particular disposition. See Note 6 of the Financial Statements.
Other Income
Other income of $189,290 in 2001 is $74,053 higher than other income of $115,237
recognized in 2000. Increased income from contract operations and investment
interest income is somewhat offset by reduced AFUDC. Other Income of $115,237 is
$18,552 lower than the comparable 1999 period in which other income totaled
$133,789. Decreased investment interest income and the absence of minor land
sales in 2000 is somewhat offset by increased AFUDC income in 2000.
Interest Expense
Interest expense of $511,007 for 2001 is $22,171 lower than interest expense of
$533,178 for 2000. Reduced short-term borrowing in 2001 accounts for reduced
interest charges. The Company's short-term borrowing was fully repaid at the end
of the second quarter in 2001 with the proceeds from the Quillinan land sale.
Interest expense of $533,178 in 2000 is $84,994 higher than interest charges of
$448,184 recorded in 1999. Interest charges relating to an increasing amount of
short-term borrowing account for the increase. Borrowings in 2000 were necessary
due to a delay in the Company's land sale program.
Inflation
Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, increased 1.6 percent, 3.4
percent and 1.7 percent in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The regulatory
authorities allow the recovery of depreciation through revenues solely on the
basis of the historical cost of plant. The replacement cost of utility plant
would be significantly higher than the historical cost. While the regulatory
authorities give no recognition in the ratemaking process to the current cost of
replacing utility plant, the Company believes that, based on past practices, the
Company will continue to be allowed to earn a return on the increased cost of
their net investment when prudent replacement of facilities actually occurs.
9
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
During 2001, 2000 and 1999, the Company's water operations generated (utilized)
funds available for investment in utility plantand for use in financing
activities, including payment of dividends on common stock, of ($1,683,876),
$991,052 and ($405,981), respectively (see Statement of Cash Flows).
Net cash provided by operating activities decreased $2,674,928 from 2000 to 2001
principally from income taxes paid in connection with land sales in 2001. Net
cash provided by operating activities increased $1,397,033 from 1999 to 2000.
This increase is also a result of income taxes paid in 1999 from land sales that
took place in the fourth quarter of 1998.
During the 3-year period 2001, 2000 and 1999, the Company has generated
sufficient funds to meet its day-to-day operational needs, including regular
expenses, payment of dividends, and investment in normal plant replacements,
such as new services, meters and hydrants. It expects to be able to continue to
do so for the foreseeable future.
The Company's Long-Term Capital Improvement program will be funded from the
proceeds available from the 2001 land sales, the internal generation of funds as
well as the Company's ability to raise capital from external sources. During
2001, 2000 and 1999, the Company's additions to utility plant, net of customer
advances, were $1,267,812, $1,991,966 and $1,690,055, respectively (see
Statement of Cash Flows and Note 15). These additions were financed primarily
from proceeds of land sales.
The Company has outstanding $4,230,000 principal amount of Mortgage Bonds, due
September 1, 2011, issued under its Mortgage Indenture. The Mortgage Indenture
limits the issuing of additional First Mortgage Bonds and the payment of
dividends. It does not, however, restrict the issuance of either long-term or
short-term debt, which is either unsecured or secured with liens subject to the
lien of the Mortgage Indenture.
In June 2000, the Company converted its $2,100,000 secured line of credit to a
2-year $5,000,000 unsecured, revolving line of credit. There were no borrowings
outstanding on the revolving line of credit on December 31, 2001 and $2,236,714
outstanding on December 31, 2000. The interest rate on the unsecured line of
credit is a variable option of 30, 60, 90 or 180-day LIBOR plus 100 basis points
or prime. The Company is required to pay interest only during the revolving
period. The loan is payable in full at maturity.
The Company's 2002 Capital Budget of $2,081,000 is two-tiered. The first tier,
consisting of typical capital improvements made each year for services, hydrants
and meters is budgeted for $377,000 in 2002 and is expected to be financed
primarily with internally generated funds.
The second tier of the 2002 Capital Budget consists of replacements and
betterments which are part of the Company's Long-Term Capital Improvement
Program and includes $1,704,000 of budgeted plant additions. Plant additions
from this part of the capital budget will be financed by proceeds from the 2001
land sales and with internally generated funds. Second tier plant additions can
be, and portions of it are expected to be, deferred to future years if funds are
not available for their construction.
The Company believes that through the sale of land in June and August of 2001,
through the use of short-term borrowing and through the use of internally
generated funds, it can generate sufficient capital to support its 5-year
capital budget currently estimated at $8,250,000. Internally generated funds in
part are dependent on the extent of future rate relief. Future rate relief will
be a necessary component in the process of funding this 5-year capital program.
10
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
On August 17, 2001, the Company sold 322 acres of unimproved land in Seymour,
Connecticut to the State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection
("DEP") for $4,338,000. The DEP exercised its right to purchase this property in
accordance with Section 16-50d of the Connecticut General Statutes. Notification
for this purchase was given to the Company by the DEP on February 13, 2001,
subsequent to the DPUC decision approving a sale to Toll Brothers, Inc. ("Toll
Bros.") for the same price. The funds from this sale were held in escrow until
September 25, 2001 when Toll Bros. agreed to remove all legal actions it had
filed in regard to its contractual rights and administrative appeals for this
sale. The total gain on this sale amounted to $2,288,297 of which $206,176 was
deferred and will be recognized over a 3-year period as approved by the DPUC.
On June 28, 2001, the Company sold 570 acres of unimproved land in Ansonia and
Seymour, Connecticut, to the DEP for $5,250,000. An additional $250,000 was
contributed by the City of Ansonia for a total selling price of $5,500,000. This
land was sold below market value, and therefore, the transaction was classified
as a bargain sale for income tax purposes. The net gain from the sale amounted
to $3,350,000 of which $315,698 was deferred and will be recognized over a
3-year period as approved by the DPUC. As a result of the bargain sale, the net
gain includes tax deductions of $571,300 of which $407,400 will be carried
forward to reduce the Company's tax liability in subsequent years. The $571,300
tax deduction is comprised of contribution deductions and state tax credits of
$2,316,600 offset by a valuation allowance of $1,745,300.
On April 18, 2001, the Company sold a small parcel of property, approximately
one quarter of an acre in Ansonia, CT to Giaimo Associates for $30,000. The net
gain on this transaction amounted to $16,956. The DPUC was not required to
approve this transaction, as the sales price was less than the required
threshold of $50,000.
The Company maintains a common stock Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the "Plan")
pursuant to which shareholders will be entitled to purchase up to 140,000 new
shares of the Company's Common Stock by applying to the purchase price of the
new shares cash dividends which otherwise would be issued by the Company with
respect to its existing common stock. The Plan provides that the purchase price
for the new shares will be their fair market value at the time of the purchase.
Dividends reinvested during 2000 totaled $59,889 and in 2001, $94,750.
11
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the Shareholders
Birmingham Utilities, Inc.
Ansonia, Connecticut
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Birmingham Utilities, Inc. as
of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the related statements of income and retained
earnings and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
31, 2001. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted
in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Birmingham Utilities, Inc. as
of December 31, 2001 and 2000 and the results of its operations and its cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001 in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America.
January 31, 2002
Shelton, Connecticut
/s/ Dworken, Hillman, LaMorte & Sterczala, P.C.
12
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
Balance Sheets
December 31,
2001 2000
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Assets
Utility plant $ 25,141,679 $ 24,302,917
Accumulated depreciation (7,465,532) (6,985,983)
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17,676,147 17,316,934
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Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 3,039,640 41,477
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
accounts of $40,000 in 2001 and $45,000 in 2000 480,849 447,945
Accrued utility and other revenue 458,996 445,141
Materials and supplies 109,033 84,082
Prepayments 44,943 26,972
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Total current assets 4,133,461 1,045,617
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Deferred charges 62,303 728,432
Unamortized debt expense 122,894 141,125
Income taxes recoverable 355,636 359,042
Other assets 330,146 366,924
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870,979 1,595,523
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$ 22,680,587 $ 19,958,074
========================================================================================================
Shareholders' Equity and Liabilities
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, no par value; authorized 2,000,000 shares;
issued and outstanding (2001, 1,632,879 shares;
2000, 1,623,071 shares) $ 2,929,756 $ 2,841,759
Retained earnings 10,146,829 5,435,602
13,076,585 8,277,361
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Long-term debt 4,136,000 4,230,000
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Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt 94,000 94,000
Note payable -- 2,236,714
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 613,189 628,411
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Total current liabilities 707,189 2,959,125
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Customers' advances for construction 1,191,030 1,192,057
Contributions in aid of construction 1,195,934 1,195,934
Regulatory liability - income taxes refundable 149,617 157,210
Deferred income taxes 1,383,843 1,729,248
Deferred income on dispositions of land 840,389 217,139
Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 13) -- --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4,760,813 4,491,588
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 22,680,587 $ 19,958,074
========================================================================================================
See notes to financial statements
13
Statements of Income and Retained Earnings
Years Ended December 31,
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating revenues:
Residential and commercial $ 3,478,678 $ 3,355,517 $ 3,477,897
Industrial 135,701 166,074 174,395
Fire protection 687,934 680,245 670,786
Public authorities 97,839 88,238 103,343
Other 215,684 206,378 197,396
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4,615,836 4,496,452 4,623,817
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating deductions:
Operating expenses 2,558,261 2,434,651 2,449,348
Maintenance expenses 210,417 216,121 183,256
Depreciation 548,119 509,814 501,313
Taxes, other than income taxes 328,248 348,324 320,442
Taxes on income 191,827 161,341 278,126
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3,836,872 3,670,251 3,732,485
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
778,964 826,201 891,332
Amortization of deferred income on dispositions
of land (net of income taxes of $38,424 in 2001,
$108,490 in 2000, and $192,720 in 1999) 64,524 184,548 342,960
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income 843,488 1,010,749 1,234,292
Other income, net 189,290 115,237 133,789
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before interest expense 1,032,778 1,125,986 1,368,081
Interest expense 511,007 533,178 448,184
Income from dispositions of land (net of income taxes of
$2,026,383 in 2001 and ($16,636) in 2000) 5,133,379 132,892 --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income 5,655,150 725,700 919,897
Retained earnings, beginning of year 5,435,602 5,511,802 5,219,875
Dividends 943,923 801,900 627,970
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained earnings, end of year $10,146,829 $ 5,435,602 $ 5,511,802
=======================================================================================================================
Earnings per share, basic $ 3.48 $ .45 $ .59
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings per share, diluted $ 3.41 $ .44 $ .56
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends per share $ .58 $ .50 $ .40
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See notes to financial statements
14
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31,
2001 2000 1999
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 5,655,150 $ 725,700 $ 919,897
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by (used in) operating activities:
Income from land dispositions (7,355,449) (132,892) --
Depreciation and amortization 621,080 580,657 571,330
Amortization of deferred income (102,951) (184,548) (342,960)
Deferred income taxes (398,739) 642 92,416
Allowance for funds used during construction (46,375) (75,015) (27,435)
Change in assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable and
accrued revenues (46,759) (48,629) 10,156
(Increase) decrease in materials and supplies (24,951) 2,959 (24,996)
(Increase) decrease in prepayments (17,971) 28,170 (12,511)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
and accrued liabilities 33,089 94,008 (1,591,878)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (1,683,876) 991,052 (405,981)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures (1,279,517) (2,027,386) (1,760,245)
Sales of utility plant 14,245 -- --
Proceeds from land disposition 9,868,000 200,000 --
Increase in deferred charges and other assets (733,313) (261,295)
Customer advances 11,705 35,420 70,190
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 7,881,120 (2,030,795) (1,951,350)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings under line of credit 545,000 1,876,714 360,000
Repayment of long-term debt (94,000) (94,000) (94,000)
Repayments of line of credit (2,781,714) -- --
Debt issuance cost -- (3,965) --
Dividends paid, net (868,367) (742,000) (560,904)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (3,199,081) 1,036,749 (294,904)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash 2,998,163 (2,994) (2,652,235)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 41,477 44,471 2,696,706
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $ 3,039,640 $ 41,477 $ 44,471
======================================================================================================================
See notes to financial statements
15
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1
Accounting Policies
Description of business
Birmingham Utilities, Inc.'s (the "Company") predominant business activity is to
provide water service to customers in various cities and towns in Connecticut.
The Company's accounting policies conform to accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America, and the Uniform System of Accounts and
ratemaking practices prescribed by the Connecticut Department of Public Utility
Control ("DPUC").
Estimates and assumptions
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues
and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could vary from those
estimates.
Utility plant
The costs of additions to utility plant and the costs of renewals and
betterments are capitalized. The cost of repairs and maintenance is charged to
income. Upon retirement of depreciable utility plant in service, accumulated
depreciation is charged with the book cost of the property retired and the cost
of removal, and is credited with the salvage value and any other amounts
recovered.
Depreciation
For financial statement purposes, the Company provides for depreciation using
the straight-line method. The rates used are intended to distribute the cost of
depreciable properties over their estimated service lives. For income tax
purposes, the Company provides for depreciation utilizing straight-line and
accelerated methods.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash in banks and overnight investment
accounts in banks.
From time to time, the Company has on deposit at financial institutions cash
balances which exceed federal deposit insurance limitations. The Company has not
experienced any losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any
significant credit risk on cash and cash equivalents.
Allowance for funds used during construction
An allowance for funds used during construction ("AFUDC") is made by applying
the last allowed rate of return on rate base granted by the DPUC to construction
projects exceeding $10,000 and requiring more than one month to complete. AFUDC
represents the net cost, for the period of construction, of borrowed funds used
for construction purposes and a reasonable rate on other funds used. AFUDC
represents a non-cash credit to income. Utility plant under construction is not
recognized as part of the Company's rate base for ratemaking purposes until
facilities are placed into service. Accordingly, the Company capitalizes AFUDC
as a portion of the construction cost of utility plant until it is completed.
Capitalized AFUDC is recovered through water service rates over the service
lives of the facilities.
Revenue recognition
The Company follows the practice of recognizing revenue when bills are rendered
to customers. In addition, the Company accrues revenue for the estimated amount
of water sold but not billed as of the balance sheet date.
Advances for construction/contributions in aid of construction
The Company receives cash advances from developers and customers to finance
construction of new water main extensions. These advances are partially refunded
over a 10-year contract period to developers, as revenues are earned on the new
water mains. Any unrefunded balances are reclassified to "Contributions in aid
of Construction" and are no longer refundable.
Fair value of financial instruments
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, and
trade accounts payable approximates their fair values due to their short-term
nature. The carrying amount of note payable and long-term debt approximate fair
value based on market conditions for debt of similar terms and maturities.
Income taxes
Except for accelerated depreciation since 1981 (federal only), the tax effect of
contributions in aid of construction for the period
16
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
January 1, 1987 through June 12, 1996, and in 1998, 2000 and 2001, the tax
effect of bargain sale of land, for which deferred income taxes have been
provided, the Company's policy is to reflect as income tax expense the amount of
tax currently payable. This method, known as the flow-through method of
accounting, is consistent with the ratemaking policies of the DPUC, and is based
on the expectation that tax expense payments in future years will be allowed for
ratemaking purposes.
The Company's deferred tax provision was determined under the liability method.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities were recognized based on differences between
the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities using presently enacted tax
rates. The provision for income taxes is the sum of the amount of income tax
paid or payable as determined by applying the provisions of enacted tax laws to
the taxable income for that year and the net change during the year in the
Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities.
In addition, the Company is required to record an additional deferred liability
for temporary differences not previously recognized. This additional deferred
tax liability totaled $206,000 at December 31, 2001 and $201,800 at December 31,
2000. Management believes that these deferred taxes will be recovered through
the ratemaking process. Accordingly, the Company has recorded an offsetting
regulatory asset and regulatory liability.
Employee benefits
The Company has a noncontributory defined benefit plan which covers
substantially all employees. The benefits are primarily based on years of
service and the employee's compensation. Pension expense includes the
amortization of a net transition obligation over a 23-year period. The Company's
funding policy is to make annual contributions in an amount that approximates
what was allowed for ratemaking purposes consistent with ERISA funding
requirements. Contributions are intended to provide not only for benefits
attributed to service to date, but also for those expected to be earned in the
future.
The Company has a 401(k) Plan. Employees are allowed to contribute a percentage
of salary, based on certain parameters. The Company matched 100% of employee
contributions up to 6% of total compensation in 2001 and 50% of employee
contributions also up to 6% of compensation in 2000.
In addition, the Company provides certain health care and life insurance
benefits for retired employees and their spouses. Generally, the plan provides
for Medicare wrap-around coverage plus life insurance based on a percentage of
each participant's final salary. Substantially all of the Company's employees
may become eligible for these benefits if they reach retirement age while
working for the Company. The Company's obligation for postretirement benefits
expected to be provided to or for an employee must be fully accrued by the date
that the employee attains full eligibility for benefits. The Company has elected
to recognize the unfunded accumulated postretirement benefit obligation over 20
years. The Company's funding policy is to contribute amounts annually to a
benefit trust and pay directly all current retiree premiums.
Compensated absences
Company policy and practice does not provide for any accumulated but unused
vacation, sick time or any other compensated absences to be carried over beyond
the year end.
Deferred charges
Deferred charges consist primarily of costs incurred to prepare the Company's
surplus land for future disposition. Deferred charges are allocated to
dispositions of land based on specific identification, if applicable, and on the
percentage of acres disposed to total surplus acres.
Land dispositions
The Company is actively seeking to dispose of surplus land not required for
utility operations. The net gain of each disposition, after deducting costs,
expenses and taxes is allocated between the shareholders and ratepayers by a
method approved by the DPUC based on legislation passed by the Connecticut
General Assembly. The portion of income applicable to shareholders is recognized
in the year of disposition. Income attributable to ratepayers is deferred and
amortized in a manner that reflects reduced water revenue resulting from the
sharing formula as determined by the DPUC.
Unamortized debt expense
Costs related to the issuance of debt are capitalized and amortized over the
term of the related indebtedness. The Company has received permission from the
DPUC to amortize the costs associated with debt previously outstanding over the
term of the new indebtedness.
17
Note 2
Utility Plant
December 31,
2001 2000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pumping, treatment and distribution $19,891,028 $19,023,882
Source of Supply 3,035,012 3,335,435
General Plant 1,720,342 1,545,822
Organization 30,219 30,219
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
24,676,601 23,935,358
Construction in process 465,078 367,559
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$25,141,679 $24,302,917
=============================================================================
Note 3
Note Payable
Note Payable consists of a $5,000,000 2-year, unsecured line of credit expiring
in June 2002. During the revolving period, the Company can choose between
variable rate options of 30, 60, 90 or 180-day LIBOR plus 1.00%, or Prime plus
0%. The Company is required to pay only interest during the revolving period.
The principal is payable in full at maturity. The 2-year, unsecured line of
credit requires the maintenance of certain financial ratios and net worth of
$7,500,000.
There were no borrowings outstanding on the line of credit at December 31, 2001
and $2,236,714 at December 31, 2000.
Note 4
Long-Term Debt
December 31,
2001 2000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
First mortgage bonds, Series E. 9.64%,
due September 1, 2011 $ 4,230,000 $ 4,324,000
=============================================================================
Pursuant to its Mortgage Bond Indenture, the Company has outstanding a series of
first mortgage bonds in the amount of $4,230,000 due on September 1, 2011. The
terms of the indenture provide, among other things, annual sinking fund
requirements and limitations on (a) payment of cash dividends; and (b)
incurrence of additional bonded indebtedness. Under the dividend limitation,
approximately $9,218,000 was available to pay dividends at December 31, 2001
after the quarterly dividend payment made on that date. Interest is payable
semi-annually on the first day of March and September. The indenture is secured
by a lien on all of the Company's utility property other than excess land
available for sale.
The Company is required to pay $94,000 each September 1 until the bonds are paid
in full.
Note 5
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
December 31,
2001 2000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accounts payable $ 155,060 $ 152,606
Accrued liabilities:
Interest 135,924 138,945
Taxes 75,373 83,750
Pension 229,682 234,211
Other 17,150 18,899
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 613,189 $ 628,411
=============================================================================
18
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
Note 6
Deferred Income on Dispositions of Land
Deferred income on the prior dispositions of land is amortized to operating
income under a method that coordinates the sharing of the net gains from land
sales between the Company's shareholders and ratepayers in accordance with a
rate making formula approved by the DPUC. Amortization of deferred income and
related taxes to be included in future years operating income for land sales
completed as of the balance sheet date follow:
Amortization
Deferred To Be Included
Deferred Income In Operating
Year Ending December 31: Income Taxes Income
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 $ 557,037 $ 162,262 $ 394,775
2003 254,943 75,769 179,174
2004 19,359 8,017 11,342
2005 8,463 3,500 4,963
2006 406 164 242
Thereafter 181 73 108
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 840,389 $ 249,785 $ 590,604
=============================================================================
The amortization of deferred income on prior land sales does not include the
effect of anticipated future land sales under the Company's ongoing land sales
program.
Note 7
Taxes, Other Than Income Taxes
December 31,
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Municipal $ 246,201 $ 266,466 $ 241,254
Payroll 82,047 81,858 79,188
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 328,248 $ 348,324 $ 320,442
=============================================================================
Note 8
Income Taxes
The provisions for taxes on income for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000
and 1999 consist of:
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current:
Federal $ 2,665,314 $ 160,700 $ 180,800
State -- -- 4,899
Deferred:
Federal:
Accelerated depreciation 80,378 75,370 75,866
Income on land dispositions (201,937) 88,825 192,220
Investment tax credit (14,700) (14,700) (14,700)
Other 7,909 -- 261
State (280,330) (57,000) 31,500
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 2,256,634 $ 253,195 $ 470,846
=============================================================================
19
State deferred income taxes relate solely to timing differences in the
recognition of income related to land dispositions. A reconciliation of the
income tax expense at the federal statutory tax rate of 34% to the effective
rate follows:
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal income tax at statutory
rates $ 2,690,044 $ 332,825 $ 477,748
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
State income tax, net of federal
benefit (185,018) (57,645) 24,023
Bargain sale portion of land
dispositions (298,350) (25,925) (19,890)
Rate case expense 2,308 7,844 7,844
SFAS 106 expense in excess of
funding (511) (3,804) (11,634)
Other, net 62,861 14,600 7,455
Investment tax credit (14,700) (14,700) (14,700)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total provision for income taxes 2,256,634 253,195 470,846
Taxes related to land dispositions (2,064,807) (91,854) (192,720)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating provision for taxes $ 191,827 $ 161,341 $ 278,126
=============================================================================
Deferred tax liabilities (assets) were comprised of the following:
2001 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------
Depreciation $ 1,884,903 $ 1,869,850
Investment tax credits 290,461 305,161
Other 169,564 173,638
Gross deferred tax liabilities 2,344,928 2,348,649
Land Sales (2,631,135) (413,813)
Other (199,370) (205,588)
Gross deferred tax assets (2,830,505) (619,401)
Valuation allowance 1,869,420 --
Net deferred tax assets (961,085) (619,401)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred income taxes $ 1,383,843 $ 1,729,248
==============================================================
Note 9
Related Party Transactions
The Company has paid legal and consulting fees to firms whose partners are
directors and shareholders of the Company. During the years ended December 31,
2001, 2000 and 1999, fees paid amounted to $10,447, $12,238 and $13,702,
respectively.
Note 10
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
December 31,
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allowance for doubtful accounts,
beginning $ 45,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000
Provision 11,070 (2,221) 10,590
Recoveries 7,927 3,302 6,748
Charge-offs (23,997) (6,081) (17,338)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allowance for doubtful accounts,
ending $ 40,000 $ 45,000 $ 50,000
=============================================================================
20
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
Note 11
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and
funded status of the plans.
Pension Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits
2001 2000 2001 2000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in Benefit Obligation:
Benefit obligation, beginning of year $ 979,792 $ 913,786 $ 453,372 $ 446,252
Service cost 53,172 45,383 26,123 24,919
Interest cost 71,379 62,115 31,311 28,786
Actuarial loss/(gain) 75,008 (10,569) 4,447 (23,466)
Benefits paid (99,203) (30,923) (21,034) (23,119)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benefit obligation, end of year 1,080,148 979,792 494,219 453,372
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in Plan Assets:
Fair value, beginning of year 792,884 806,406 391,502 368,543
Actual return on plan assets (64,943) (12,599) (23,097) (2,041)
Employer contribution 60,000 30,000 25,000 25,000
Benefits paid (99,203) (30,923) -- --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fair value, end of year 688,738 792,884 393,405 391,502
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funded Status (391,410) (186,908) (100,814) (61,870)
Unrecognized net actuarial gain/(loss) 323,496 126,262 (124,662) (192,746)
Unrecognized transition obligation 58,717 64,589 279,158 304,536
Unrecognized prior service cost (32,912) (35,166) -- --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prepaid (accrued) benefit cost $ (42,109) $ (31,223) $ 53,682 $ 49,920
===========================================================================================================
Weighted-average Assumptions as of December 31:
Discount rate 7% 7% 7% 7%
Expected return on plan assets 8% 8% 8% 8%
Rate of compensation increase 5% 5% -- --
For measurement purposes, an 8% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost
of covered health care benefits was assumed for 2001. The rate was assumed to
decrease gradually to 6% for 2005 and remain at that level thereafter. Net
periodic pension and other postretirement benefit costs include the following
components:
Pension Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits
2001 2000 1999 2001 2000 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Components of Net Periodic
Benefit Cost:
Service Cost $ 53,172 $ 45,383 $ 43,242 $ 26,123 $ 24,919 $ 21,202
Interest Cost 71,379 62,115 58,010 31,311 28,786 28,697
Expected return on plan assets (63,423) (65,276) (55,708) (31,404) (29,567) (24,019)
Amortization of unrecognized
transition obligation 5,872 5,872 5,872 25,378 25,378 25,378
Amortization of unrecognized
prior service cost (2,254) (2,254) (2,254) -- -- --
Recognized net actuarial
loss (gain) 6,140 -- 1,901 (9,136) (14,842) (10,376)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net periodic benefit cost $ 70,886 $ 45,840 $ 51,063 $ 42,272 $ 34,674 $ 40,882
==========================================================================================================================
21
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts
reported for the health care plan. A one-percentage-point change in assumed
health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
1-Percentage 1-Percentage
Point Increase Point Decrease
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effect on total of service and interest cost components $ 9,314 $ (8,419)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation $ 69,926 $ (64,223)
The Company has established tax effective funding vehicles for such retirement
benefits in the form of a qualified Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association
(VEBA) trust. The Company funded the VEBA trust with tax deductible
contributions of $25,000, $25,000 and $50,000 in 2001, 2000 and 1999,
respectively.
The employment contract of the Company's former President required accounting
for benefits payable in accordance with SFAS 106. The accumulated present value
of future benefits was recognized during his term of service to the Company,
which ended on October 1, 1998. The liability recorded at December 31, 2001 and
2000 was $221,700 and $232,900, respectively. At December 31, 2001, an amount of
$156,300 has been included in other assets relating to a regulatory asset for
costs which were included in the Company's rate case.
Employer matching contributions to the 401(k) Plan were $55,232, $25,236 and
$23,634 in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.
Note 12
Earnings Per Share Supplemental Information
The following table summarizes the number of common shares used in the
calculation of earnings per share:
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average shares outstanding
for earnings per share, basic 1,626,613 1,598,720 1,567,725
Incremental shares from assumed
conversion of stock options 32,540 47,525 73,990
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average shares outstanding
for earnings per share, diluted 1,659,153 1,646,245 1,641,715
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note 13
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
Management agreement
The Company maintains an agreement with the City of Derby (the "City"), pursuant
to which agreement, the Company manages the water system owned by the City. The
Company is responsible for costs of maintenance and improvements. Amounts
collected from customers, net of expenses, are retained by the Company.
Capital budget
Management has budgeted $ 2,081,000 for capital expenditures in 2002, $377,000
of which is expected to be necessary to meet its service obligations for the
coming year.
Purchase commitment
The Company has an agreement with South Central Connecticut Regional Water
Authority to purchase water. This agreement provides for a minimum purchase of
600 million gallons of water annually. Charges to expense were $711,583,
$709,305, and $705,934 for the years 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The
purchase price is based on South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority's
wholesale rate. At December 31, 2001, this rate was $1,160 per million gallons.
This agreement expires December 31, 2015 but provides for two 10-year extensions
at the Company's option.
22
BIRMINGHAM UTILITIES, INC.
Note 14
Equity
Common Stock
Number
of Shares Amount
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, January 1, 2000 1,583,025 $ 2,634,762
Stock issued through Dividend Reinvestment Plan 4,521 59,889
Stock issued through Key Employee and
Non-Employee Stock Option Plans 35,525 152,293
Amortization of stock plan costs -- (5,185)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, December 31, 2000 1,623,071 2,841,759
Stock issued through Dividend Reinvestment Plan 4,984 75,557
Stock issued through Key Employee and
Non-Employee Stock Option Plans 4,824 19,202
Amortization of stock plan costs -- (6,762)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, December 31, 2001 1,632,879 2,929,756
=============================================================================
Stock Option Plans
The Company has four stock option plans which include two non-employee director
stock option plans ("director plan") and two key employee incentive stock option
plans ("employee plan"). The first director and employee plans were adopted in
1994 and subsequently approved by the Company's shareholders and the DPUC in
1995; 80,000 and 70,000 shares, respectively, were authorized under these two
plans. The second employee plan was adopted in 1998 and approved by the
Company's shareholders and the DPUC in 1999; 60,000 shares were authorized under
this plan. The second director plan was adopted in 2000 and approved by the
Company's shareholders and DPUC in 2001; 60,000 shares were authorized under
this plan. The following table summarizes the transactions of the Company's
stock option plans for the three years ended December 31, 2001:
Granted Exercisable
--------------------------------------------------------
Weighted Weighted
Number Average Number Average
of Shares Exercise Price of Shares Exercise Price
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 1998 128,500 $ 5.93 101,000 $ 5.19
Granted 5,000 $ 21.00 ==========================
Exercised (28,988) $ 5.25
- --------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 1999 104,512 $ 6.81 84,912 $ 5.59
Granted 2,500 $ 15.50 ==========================
Exercised (38,854) $ 5.21
- --------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 2000 68,158 $ 8.04 58,958 $ 6.98
Granted 12,500 $ 14.93 ==========================
Exercised (7,646) $ 5.78
- --------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 2001 73,012 $ 9.46 61,762 $ 8.47
============================================================================================
The Company applies Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123,
"Accounting for Stock Based Compensation" (SFAS 123) to account for its stock
option plans. As permitted by SFAS 123, the Company has chosen to continue to
apply Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued
to Employees" (APB 25) and, accordingly, no compensation cost has been
recognized for stock options in the financial statements. The pro-forma effect
of these options on net income and earnings per share, utilizing the
Black-Scholes option-pricing model, consistent with the method stipulated by
SFAS 123, was not material to the Company's results of operations.
23
Dividend reinvestment plan
The Company has a dividend reinvestment plan, which provides for the issuance
and sale of up to 140,000 shares of the Company's authorized but un-issued
common stock to its shareholders who elect to reinvest cash dividends on the
Company's existing shares. Shares under the plan will be purchased at their fair
market value price on the date of the dividends to be invested in the new
shares.
Note 15
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information and Non-cash Financing
Activities
Cash paid for interest for the years ended 2001, 2000, and 1999 was $495,799,
$519,125, and $434,956, respectively.
Cash paid for income taxes for the years ended 2001, 2000 and 1999 was
$2,603,343, $278,195, and $1,859,000, respectively.
The Company receives contributions of plant from developers. These contributions
are reported in utility plant and in customers' advances for construction. The
contributions are deducted from construction expenditures to determine cash
expenditures by the Company.
December 31,
2001 2000 1999
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross plant additions $ 1,279,517 $ 2,027,386 $ 1,760,245
Customers' advances for construction (11,705) (35,420) (70,190)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 1,267,812 $ 1,991,966 $ 1,690,055
=============================================================================
Note 16
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
Operating Operating Dispositions Net Earnings Per Share
Revenues Income of Land Income Basic Diluted
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2001 First Quarter $ 1,092,352 $ 189,915 -- $ 80,870 $ .05 $ .05
Second Quarter 1,151,768 202,718 3,051,258 3,117,665 $ 1.92 $ 1.88
Third Quarter 1,236,859 310,928 2,082,121 2,348,487 $ 1.44 $ 1.41
Fourth Quarter 1,134,857 139,927 -- 108,128 $ .07 $ .07
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 4,615,836 $ 843,488 5,133,379 $ 5,655,150
============================================================================================
2000 First Quarter $ 1,063,515 $ 181,050 -- $ 85,453 $ .05 $ .05
Second Quarter 1,191,390 313,201 -- 198,174 $ .12 $ .12
Third Quarter 1,154,036 280,821 -- 165,619 $ .10 $ .10
Fourth Quarter 1,087,511 235,677 132,892 276,454 $ .18 $ .17
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 4,496,452 $ 1,010,749 132,892 $ 725,700
============================================================================================
Note 17
Subsequent Event
On January 17, 2002 the Company, in accordance with Section 16-47 of the
Connecticut General Statutes, filed an application with the DPUC requesting
approval for the establishment of a holding company. The Company believes the
holding company structure will better support business opportunities that exist
in the marketplace and separate these activities from regulated company
activities. The DPUC has 90 days to render a decision on this matter and the
Company sees no reason why the DPUC would not grant approval. The establishment
of the holding company will also need shareholder approval. The name of the
holding company will be "BIW Limited."
On written request, the Company will furnish to any shareholder a copy of its
most recent annual report to the Securities and Exchange Commission on Form 10K,
without charge, including the financial statements and schedules thereto. Such
requests should be addressed to Henrietta Vitale, Secretary, Birmingham
Utilities, Inc. P.O. Box 426, Ansonia, CT 06401-0426 or
e-mail@h.vitale.Birmingham@snet.net.
24
BIRMINGHAM CONTRIBUTORS
Board of Directors Mary Jane Burt (1,4) B. Lance Sauerteig (2,4)
Betsy Henley-Cohn (2)* Principal, The Laurel Group; Lawyer in Practice in Westport;
Chairwoman of the Board of Directors
of the Company; Previously, President, Burt Medical Lab Principal in BLS Strategic Capital, Inc.
(1984-1998); (financial and investment advisory company);
Chairman and Treasurer,
Joseph Cohn & Sons, Inc.; Director, INSITE ONE Previously, President, First Spring
Corporation (1986-1994) (private family
Director, United Illuminating Corp.; James E. Cohen (2,3) investment management company);
Lawyer in Practice in Derby
Director, Aristotle Corp.; Director, OFFITBANK (a New York-based
Director, Citizens Bank of Connecticut Alvaro da Silva (1) private investment management bank)
(1997-1999) President, DSA Corp.;
Kenneth E. Schaible (1,3)
* Ex-Officio on all other committees President, B.I.D., Inc. (land development & Bank Consultant and Real Estate Developer;
home building company);
John S. Tomac (2) Previously, Senior Vice President,
President and Treasurer of the Company Managing Partner, Connecticut Commercial Webster Bank (1995-1996);
Investors, LLC., (a commercial real estate
Aldore J. Rivers (2,4) and investment partnership) President, Shelton Savings Bank and
Retired; President of the Company Shelton Bancorp., Inc. (1972-1995)
from 1985 to October 1998 Themis Klarides (2,4)
Associate Attorney, Law Offices of Shawn K. Charles T. Seccombe
Michael J. Adanti (1,4) Splan, Shelton; Director Emeritus
President, Southern Connecticut
State University State Representative, 114th District,
Connecticut General Assembly
Officers
Betsy Henley-Cohn Auditors Stock Market Listing
Chairwoman and CEO Dworken, Hillman, LaMorte & Sterczala, P.C. AMEX - Under the symbol BIW
Shelton, Connecticut
John S. Tomac Website
President and Treasurer General Counsel buiweb.com
Wiggin & Dana LLP New Haven, Connecticut
John J. Keefe, Jr.
Vice President, Operations Registrar and
Transfer Agent
Henrietta Vitale American Stock Transfer & Trust Company
Secretary 59 Maiden Lane
New York, New York 10007
Diane G. DeBiase
Assistant Treasurer
Committees
(1) Audit Committee meets quarterly with management and independent accountants
to review and discuss the scope and results of the annual audit and
quarterly reviews of the Company's financial statements.
(2) Executive Committee reviews strategic planning alternatives, recommends to
and advises the Board of Directors on financial policy, issuance of
securities and other high priority issues.
(3) Committee on Directors makes recommendations to the Board of Directors for
Board replacements when they become available and for compensation levels
for the Board of Directors.
(4) Personnel and Pension Committee makes recommendations to the Board of
Directors regarding officers' compensation including the promotion and
hiring of officers; reviews Company fringe benefit plans other than
retirement plans; reviews the Pension Trust Fund of the Birmingham
Utilities, Inc. Defined Benefit Plan and the Retired Employee Welfare
Benefit Trust for retiree medical benefits; reviews and determines
actuarial policies, investment guidelines and selects the investment
manager.
United we stand 9.11.01
Birmingham
Utilites, Inc.
230 BEAVER STREET | PO BOX 426
ANSONIA CT 06401-0426 | 203 735.1888