Service is Our Main Product
The Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) is proud to be the recipient of the diamond status RP3 (Reliable Public Power Provider) designation. This encompasses many things, but in the eyes of everyone who works at BPUB, it comes down to one thing: service is our main product. BPUB is built around providing top-notch service to all of its customers, and the criteria that BPUB was judged on to receive the RP3 designation shows how our top-notch service relates to each of those.
Reliability
Whether you’re a residential or commercial customer, you depend on that power coming into your house, the water flowing through your pipes. BPUB’s diamond status means it’s among the most reliable public power agencies in the nation. That means that you have hot water when you’re running late to work and need to take a quick shower. That means that the power is on for your alarm clock. That means that dinner is ready on time for the family.
All of these factors are very important to BPUB, and we take a lot of pride in being recognized for bringing that reliability to our customers. We have also put a lot of time and investment into our infrastructure. Local and diversified electricity and water sourcing means we can meet our community’s needs.
Workforce development
Developing a well-trained, knowledgeable and professional workforce is paramount to BPUB performing its tasks to the highest level possible.
Having a well trained workforce means that problems will likely be fewer, and when those problems do arise, they can be handled quicker and safer. BPUB strives for continual improvement in its employees by way of trainings, workshops, and in-house programs and providing opportunities to network with other state and national colleagues for best practices.
Safety
Safety isn’t isolated to just BPUB employees. It extends to our customers as well. The fact is that BPUB deals with some potentially dangerous materials in electricity, water and wastewater. Incorrect handling can result in injuries, death, lawsuits or environmental problems. The designation means that BPUB is using measurable industry safety standards. Safer and more productive employees help keep overall customer service costs low.
This is why BPUB has instituted a safety culture throughout the company. If our employees are being safe on the job, using the right tools, performing the work the right way, there is less of a chance of someone – an employee or a customer – being hurt.
System Improvement
BPUB is not only focused on improving its employees; it’s also focused on constantly improving Brownsville’s infrastructure. This anticipation of growth and development ensure abundant and reliable service for years to come, even as the city continues to expand and its needs grow.
Some of the ways that we have continued to improve our system include:
- Brownville Country Club electrical rehabilitation plan
- Brownsville Market Square (conversion of overhead power lines to underground)
- Leak detection plan
- Lift station rehabilitation
- FM 511 colonia infrastructure (providing customers with first-time sewer service)
- Robindale Wastewater Treatment Plant rehabilitation
- Sendero Wind Farm
Service defines the four strengths for which BPUB won this award, and we intend to only improve upon that service in the future.
To see how BPUB ranks among the nation’s other public power providers follow this link: https://www.publicpower.org/reliable-public-power-provider
To see what it takes to become an RP3 winner click here: http://appanet.files.cms-plus.com/RP3/33%202017%20RP3%20Brochure.pdf