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Introduction to Ratemaking Course
Importance of Ratemaking
A robust system for pricing and revenue generation is fundamental to sound asset management practices. Implementing effective rate structures guarantees sufficient cash flow to finance crucial investments and ongoing maintenance of our infrastructure networks.
While one-time infusions of infrastructure funding can temporarily alleviate current deficiencies, they do not address the underlying systemic causes of their existence. Predictable cash flow from a well-designed system allows for consistent budgeting and planning, avoiding the boom-and-bust cycles fueled by one-time injections. This enables proactive maintenance and prevents costly breakdowns in the future.
Building sustainable and equitable water rates requires a dedicated team of government experts with deep community understanding. This team should possess expertise in cost balancing, equity with a focus on low-income assistance programs, and conservation strategies achieved through innovative rate structures.
2026 Introduction to Ratemaking Course
The Michigan Infrastructure Council has coordinated with the MSU Institute of Public Utilities to offer a free two-day, online, interactive workshop for municipal water and sewer providers.
The workshop's goal is to improve quality of life for Michigan residents through informed fiscal management of water utilities.
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Dates & Format
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Who Should Attend
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Learning Objectives
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Topics Covered
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Course Instructors
September 9 and 10, 2026
Free Virtual Two-Day Interactive Workshop
Registration Will Open Soon
This course is designed to cover topics related to municipal water and sewer service providers.
Who should attend:
- Plant managers
- Elected officials
- City, village, and township managers
- Public works employees
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Understand how the problems of aging infrastructure are
connected to quality of life and other systems, including health,
education, and economic development - Facilitate coordination among water utility financial analysts,
engineers, and elected officials - Confidently explain the components of water rates to
constituents - Pose informed questions to cost-of-service study consultants
This course will cover the following topics:
- Status of water infrastructure in Michigan
- Elements of financial management for water utilities cost-of service
- Revenue requirement and cost allocation rate designs
- and emerging challenges
Denise Schmidt, M.S.
Lead Instructor
Director of Water, Environmental Policy Innovation Center
Denise has over 30 years of experience in working with water utilities. She previously served as the Administrator of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin’s Division of Water Utility Regulation and Analysis and has been an instructor for MSU’s Institute of Public Utilities for many years.
Erik Nordman, Ph.D.
Course Development and Support
Director, Institute of Public Utilities (IPU) at Michigan State University
Erik supported the curriculum design and alignment with IPU standards for professionalism and engagement. He has more than twenty years of experience teaching in higher education, both in-person and online.