Farmingdale, NY - October 30th, 2014 -  The Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSCWA, which consists of commissioners representing 21 Long Island water districts, recently welcomed speakers from Long Island’s electric utility, Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG), as part of the Association’s ongoing Educational Series. 

Robert Hughes, PSEG Account Manager, along with colleagues Domenic R. Abbatiello, C.E.D., E.D.F.P., Manager of Large Consumer Support & Critical Facilities, and Robert Ganley, Manager Compliance, introduced the company. The discussion included PSEG’s history, five-year action plan and management structure as relevant to critical facilities.

“Customer satisfaction begins with enhanced communication services for the public and civic organizations,” said Mr. Hughes. “PSEG has implemented a proven communications model which includes enhanced training and response, a state-of-the-art call center and self-grading system.

“The NSWCA applauds PSEG’s strategy for communication,” stated Howard Abbondondelo, NSWCA President and Albertson Water Commissioner. Accurate, complete information is vital to the safety of the public and our working crews. Trust is built through communication and transparency, particularly in times of emergency.”

NSWCA commissioners wasted no time in using this opportunity to open dialogue with PSEG.  Inquiries included water safety, budget conservation and infrastructure.

Lawrence Zaino, Commissioner from the Carle Place Water District, addressed the “hurricane poles” installed along some of Long Island’s coastal communities.  These 65-70 foot poles bolster the power grid where residents have expressed safety and aesthetic concerns.

Karl Schweitzer, Hicksville Water District Commissioner and NSWCA Treasurer, vocalized trepidation over new utility poles preservatives. “Chemicals on the poles can negatively affect the environment and potentially the water table,” Mr. Schweitzer said.  He continued by asking about environmental studies and alternatives explored by PSET.

PSEG’s Domenic Abbatiello advanced no resolutions but welcomed the opportunity for further discussion with the NSWCA and the community at large, in hopes of finding a solution that is both economical and viable.

In addition to continued storm restoration already underway, PSEG outlined its commitment to energy efficient environments.  Aggressive rebate programs are available for existing and new construction qualifying efficiencies including HVAC, lighting, chillers, compressors and air dryers, and cool roofing. 

“Maximizing our water budgets and remaining the least expensive of utilities is a mission of NSWCA commissioners,” stated Carle Place Water District Commissioner Tim Stellato. Mr. Stellato inquired about whether or not water districts can use energy efficient programs to sell power back to the grid, aiding the environment and saving the community money.

“If an energy efficient program makes sense, PSEG will assign a rebate to it,” responded   Mr. Hughes assured.

The September meeting served as preface to future dialogues between the NSWCA and PSEG.  Plans for continued communications will improve the safety, efficiencies, cooperation and service of Long Island’s public utilities. 

The NSWCA is comprised of Water Commissioners’ from 21 Nassau County and Suffolk County water districts.  NSWCA is dedicated to communication, efficiency and best practices among Long Island’s water districts.  As part of its mission, the association holds monthly educational meetings sponsoring experts on topics that include law, cost efficiencies, rules and regulations and issues germane to water utilities. 

For further information, please contact Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association President Mr. Howard Abbondondelo via phone, (516) 621-3610, or email, awd11577@optonline.net.

Pictured from left to right during the recent Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSWCA) meeting with Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) are: NSWCA Treasurer Karl Schweitzer of Hicksville Water District, NSWCA 1st Vice President Thomas Hand of Massapequa Water District, NSWCA 2nd Vice President Raymond Averna of Massapequa Water District, PSEG Lead Account Manager Robert Hughes, NSWCA President Howard Abbondondelo of Albertson Water District and NSWCA Secretary Andrew Bader of Plainview Water District.