================================================================================
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
|X| ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005
OR
|_| TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ________________ to ___________________
Commission File Number 0-422
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New Jersey 22-1114430
---------- ----------
(State of Incorporation) (IRS employer identification no.)
1500 Ronson Road, Iselin NJ 08830
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(732) 634-1500
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class: Name of each exchange on which registered:
None None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, No par Value
--------------------------
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes |X| No |_|
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. |X|
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as
defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Yes |X| No |_|
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the
registrant at June 30, 2005 was $211,641,354 based on the closing market price
of $19.42 per share.
The number of shares outstanding for each of the registrant's classes of common
stock, as of March 1, 2006:
Common Stock, No par Value: 11,603,238 shares outstanding
Documents Incorporated by Reference
-----------------------------------
Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the Registrant's Annual Meeting
of Shareholders to be held on May 24, 2006, which will be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days, is incorporated as to Part
III.
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
FORM 10-K
INDEX
PAGE
----
Forward-Looking Statements 1
PART I
Item 1. Business:
Overview 2
Financial Information 4
Water Supplies and Contracts 4
Employees 6
Competition 7
Regulation 7
Management 9
Item 1A. Risk Factors 11
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 13
Item 2. Properties 14
Item 3. Legal Proceedings 15
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 16
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related
Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchase of
Equity Securities 16
Item 6. Selected Financial Data 18
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations 19
Item 7A. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosure About Market Risk 28
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 29
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial Disclosure 52
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 52
Item 9B. Other Information 56
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant 57
Item 11. Executive Compensation 57
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
and Management 57
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 57
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 57
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 58
Signatures 59
Exhibit Index 60
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this annual report are "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of federal securities laws. Middlesex Water
Company (the Company) intends that these statements be covered by the safe
harbors created under those laws. These statements include, but are not limited
to:
- statements as to expected financial condition, performance, prospects
and earnings of the Company;
- statements regarding strategic plans for growth;
- statements regarding the amount and timing of rate increases and other
regulatory matters;
- statements regarding expectations and events concerning capital
expenditures;
- statements as to the Company's expected liquidity needs during fiscal
2006 and beyond and statements as to the sources and availability of
funds to meet its liquidity needs;
- statements as to expected rates, consumption volumes, service fees,
revenues, margins, expenses and operating results;
- statements as to the Company's compliance with environmental laws and
regulations and estimations of the materiality of any related costs;
- statements as to the safety and reliability of the Company's
equipment, facilities and operations;
- statements as to financial projections;
- statements as to the ability of the Company to pay dividends;
- statements as to the Company's plans to renew municipal franchises and
consents in the territories it serves;
- expectations as to the amount of cash contributions to fund the
Company's retirement benefit plans, including statements as to
anticipated discount rates and rates of return on plan assets;
- statements as to trends; and
- statements regarding the availability and quality of our water supply.
These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other
factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results
expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that
could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results and
outcomes include, but are not limited to:
- the effects of general economic conditions;
- increases in competition in the markets served by the Company;
- the ability of the Company to control operating expenses and to
achieve efficiencies in its operations;
- the availability of adequate supplies of water;
- actions taken by government regulators, including decisions on base
rate increase requests;
- new or additional water quality standards;
- weather variations and other natural phenomena;
- acts of war or terrorism; and
- other factors discussed elsewhere in this annual report.
Many of these factors are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict.
Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on
any forward-looking statements, which only speak to the Company's understanding
as of the date of this annual report. The Company does not undertake any
obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements
to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this annual report or to
reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under
applicable securities laws.
For an additional discussion of factors that may affect the Company's business
and results of operations, see Item 1A.- Risk Factors.
1
PART I
Item 1. Business.
Overview
Middlesex Water Company was incorporated as a water utility company in 1897 and
owns and operates regulated water utility systems in central and southern New
Jersey and in Delaware as well as regulated wastewater utility systems in
southern New Jersey and southern Delaware. We also operate water and wastewater
systems under contract on behalf of others in New Jersey and Delaware.
The terms "the Company," "we," "our," and "us" refer to Middlesex Water Company
and its subsidiaries, including Tidewater Utilities, Inc. (Tidewater) and
Tidewater's wholly-owned subsidiaries, Southern Shores Water Company, LLC
(Southern Shores) and White Marsh Environmental Systems, Inc. (White Marsh). The
Company's other subsidiaries are Pinelands Water Company (Pinelands Water) and
Pinelands Wastewater Company (Pinelands Wastewater) (collectively, Pinelands),
Utility Service Affiliates, Inc. (USA), Utility Service Affiliates (Perth Amboy)
Inc., (USA-PA), Bayview Water Company (Bayview), and Tidewater Environmental
Services, Inc. (TESI). Effective January 1, 2006, Bayview was merged into
Middlesex and ceased being a stand-alone entity.
Middlesex principal executive offices are located at 1500 Ronson Road, Iselin,
New Jersey 08830. Our telephone number is (732) 634-1500. Our internet website
address is http://www.middlesexwater.com. We make available, free of charge
through our internet website, reports and amendments filed or furnished pursuant
to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, after such
material is electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC).
Middlesex System
The Middlesex System in New Jersey provides water services to approximately
58,500 retail customers, primarily in eastern Middlesex County, New Jersey and
provides water under wholesale contracts to the Township of Edison, the Boroughs
of Highland Park and Sayreville, and both the Old Bridge and the Marlboro
Township Municipal Utilities Authorities. The Middlesex System treats, stores
and distributes water for residential, commercial, industrial and fire
prevention purposes. Under a special contract, the Middlesex System also
provides water treatment and pumping services to the Township of East Brunswick.
The Middlesex System, through its retail and contract sales, produced
approximately 69% of our 2005 revenue.
The Middlesex System's retail customers are located in an area of approximately
55 square miles in Woodbridge Township, the City of South Amboy, the Boroughs of
Metuchen and Carteret, portions of Edison Township and the Borough of South
Plainfield in Middlesex County and, to a minor extent, a portion of the Township
of Clark in Union County. The retail customers include a mix of residential
customers, large industrial concerns and commercial and light industrial
facilities. These retail customers are located in generally well-developed areas
of central New Jersey. The contract customers of the Middlesex System comprise
an area of approximately 141 square miles with a population of approximately
267,000. Contract sales to Edison, Sayreville, Old Bridge and Marlboro are
supplemental to the existing water systems of these customers. The State of New
Jersey in the mid-1980's approved plans to increase available surface water
supply to the South River Basin area of the state to permit a reduced use of
ground water in this area. The Middlesex System provides treated surface water
under long-term agreements to East Brunswick, Marlboro, Old Bridge and
Sayreville consistent with the state-approved plan.
2
Tidewater System
Tidewater, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary, Southern Shores, provides
water services to approximately 28,300 retail customers for domestic, commercial
and fire protection purposes in over 271 separate community water systems in New
Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties, Delaware. Tidewater has another wholly-owned
subsidiary, White Marsh, which operates water and wastewater systems under
contract for approximately 4,000 customers and also owns the office building
that Tidewater uses as its business office. White Marsh's rates for water and
wastewater operations are not regulated by the Delaware Public Service
Commission (PSC). The Tidewater System produced approximately 17% of our total
revenue in 2005.
Utility Service Affiliates (Perth Amboy)
USA-PA operates the City of Perth Amboy's (Perth Amboy) water and wastewater
systems under a 20-year agreement, which expires in 2018. Perth Amboy has a
population of approximately 40,000 and has approximately 9,600 customers, most
of whom are served by both systems. The agreement was effected under New
Jersey's Water Supply Public-Private Contracting Act and the New Jersey
Wastewater Public/Private Contracting Act and requires USA-PA to lease from
Perth Amboy all of its employees who currently work on the Perth Amboy water and
wastewater systems. Under the agreement, USA-PA receives both fixed and variable
fees based on increased system billing. Fixed fee payments were $7.4 million in
2005 and are to increase over the term of the 20-year contract to $10.2 million.
USA-PA produced approximately 10% of our total revenue in 2005.
In connection with the agreement, we guaranteed a series of Perth Amboy's
municipal bonds in the principal amount of approximately $26.3 million, of which
approximately $23.9 million remains outstanding. In connection with the
agreement with Perth Amboy, USA-PA entered into a 20-year subcontract with a
wastewater operating company for the operation and maintenance of the Perth
Amboy wastewater system. The subcontract provides for the sharing of certain
fixed and variable fees and operating expenses.
Pinelands System
Pinelands Water provides water services to approximately 2,400 residential
customers in Burlington County, New Jersey. Pinelands Water produced less than
1% of our total revenue in 2005.
Pinelands Wastewater provides wastewater services to approximately 2,400
primarily residential retail customers. Under contract, it also services one
municipal wastewater system in Burlington County, New Jersey with about 200
residential customers. Pinelands Wastewater produced approximately 1% of our
total revenue in 2005.
Utility Service Affiliates, Inc.
USA provides residential customers a service line maintenance program called
LineCareSM. LineCareSM is an affordable maintenance program that covers all
parts, material and labor required to repair or replace specific elements of the
customer's water service line and customer shut-off valve in the event of a
failure. USA produced less than 1% of our total revenue in 2005.
In 2003, Middlesex and USA entered into a venture with an entity that provided
meter installation and related services. This venture sought to obtain
competitively bid service contracts with municipalities in the Mid-Atlantic and
New England regions. The contract work included the following: meter purchases,
replacement meter program, new meter program and meter testing. This venture
concluded in December 2004 and contributed approximately 3% of our total revenue
in 2004, but no revenues in 2005. We do not anticipate pursuing new service
contracts in the foreseeable future.
3
Bayview System
Bayview provides water service to approximately 300 customers in Cumberland
County, New Jersey. Bayview produced less than 1% of our total revenue in 2005.
Bayview was legally merged into Middlesex effective January 1, 2006.
TESI System
TESI, which began in 2005, provides wastewater services to approximately 20
residential retail customers in Delaware. TESI produced less than 1% of our
total revenue in 2005.
Financial Information
Consolidated operating revenues and operating income are as follows:
(Thousands of Dollars)
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
2005 2004 2003
---- ---- ----
Operating Revenues $74,613 $70,991 $64,111
Operating Income $17,218 $16,933 $14,737
Operating revenues were earned from the following sources:
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
2005 2004 2003
---- ---- ----
Residential 41.9% 39.9% 39.4%
Commercial 9.8 9.5 9.8
Industrial 11.0 10.9 11.1
Fire Protection 10.4 10.2 10.7
Contract Sales 13.4 12.8 13.2
Contract Operations 10.8 11.2 12.6
Other 2.7 5.5 3.2
----- ----- -----
TOTAL 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
----- ----- -----
Water Supplies and Contracts
Our New Jersey and Delaware water supply systems are physically separate and are
not interconnected. In New Jersey, the Pinelands System and Bayview System are
not interconnected with the Middlesex System or each other. We believe that we
have adequate sources of water supply to meet the current service requirements
of our present customers in New Jersey and Delaware.
4
Middlesex System
Our Middlesex System, which produced 17,439 million gallons in 2005, obtains
water from surface sources and wells, which we call groundwater sources. In
2005, surface sources of water provided approximately 71% of the Middlesex
System's water supply, groundwater from wells provided approximately 22% and the
balance of 7% was purchased from a non-affiliated water utility. Middlesex
System's distribution storage facilities are used to supply water to its
customers at times of peak demand, outages and emergencies.
The principal source of surface water supply for the Middlesex System is the
Delaware & Raritan Canal, which is owned by the State of New Jersey and operated
as a water resource by the New Jersey Water Supply Authority. Middlesex is under
contract with the New Jersey Water Supply Authority, which expires November 30,
2023, and provides for an average purchase of 27 million gallons per day (mgd)
of untreated water from the Delaware & Raritan Canal, augmented by the Round
Valley/Spruce Run Reservoir System. Surface water is pumped to and treated at
the Middlesex Carl J. Olsen (CJO) Plant. Middlesex also has an agreement with a
nonaffiliated water utility for the purchase of treated water. This long-term
agreement, which expired December 31, 2005 and remains in effect on a
month-to-month basis, is expected to be renewed for a five-year term under
similar terms and conditions, provides for the minimum purchase of 3 mgd of
treated water with provisions for additional purchases. Purchased water costs
are shown below:
(Millions of Dollars)
Years Ended December 31,
-----------------------
Purchased Water 2005 2004 2003
--------------- ---- ---- ----
Untreated $2.3 $2.2 $2.0
Treated 1.8 2.0 1.8
---- ---- ----
Total Costs $4.1 $4.2 $3.8
==== ==== ====
Our Middlesex System also derives water from groundwater sources equipped with
electric motor-driven, deepwell turbine-type pumps. The Middlesex System has 31
wells, which provide an aggregate pump capacity of approximately 27 mgd.
The Middlesex System's groundwater sources are:
2005
Maximum Use
No. of Per Day Pumpage Pump
Source Wells (millions of gallons) Capacity (mgd) Location
------ ----- ------------------- -------------- --------
Park Avenue 15 8.6 15.2 South Plainfield
Tingley Lane North 4 2.8 2.8 Edison
Tingley Lane South 5 2.4 2.6 Edison
Spring Lake 4 0.0 2.8 South Plainfield
Sprague Avenue #1 1 1.1 1.1 South Plainfield
Sprague Avenue #2 1 1.3 1.3 South Plainfield
Maple Avenue 1 0.0 0.9 South Plainfield
-- ---- ----
Totals 31 16.2 26.7
5
Tidewater System
Our Tidewater System, which produced 1,638 million gallons in 2005, obtains 100%
of its water from 183 wells. In 2005, we placed 8 new wells in service and also
deactivated, sealed and abandoned 27 wells for either water quality reasons or
for the purpose of consolidating production facilities for more cost-efficient
operation. Tidewater continues to submit applications to Delaware regulatory
authorities for the approval of additional wells as growth, demand and water
quality warrants. The Tidewater System does not have a central treatment
facility but has several regional treatment plants. Several of its water systems
in New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties, Delaware have interconnected
transmission systems.
Pinelands System
Water supply to our Pinelands System is derived from four wells drilled into the
Mt. Laurel aquifer which provided overall system delivery of 194 million gallons
in 2005. The pump capacity for the four wells is 2.2 million gallons per day.
Bayview System
Water supply to Bayview customers is derived from two wells, which provided an
overall system delivery of 10 million gallons in 2005. Each well has treatment
facilities.
Pinelands Wastewater System
The Pinelands Wastewater System discharges into the South Branch of the Rancocas
Creek through a tertiary treatment plant that provides clarification,
sedimentation, filtration and disinfection. The total capacity of the plant is
0.5 mgd, and the system provided overall treatment of 9.1 million gallons in
2005. Pinelands has a current valid discharge permit issued by the New Jersey
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
TESI System
The TESI System discharges to a sub-surface disposal basin. The treatment plant
provides clarification, sedimentation, and disinfection. The total capacity of
the plant is 48,300 gallons per day. Current average flow is approximately 2,000
gallons per day. TESI has a current valid discharge permit issued by the
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
Employees
As of December 31, 2005, we had a total of 148 employees in New Jersey, and a
total of 83 employees in Delaware. In addition, we lease 20 employees under the
USA-PA contract with the City of Perth Amboy, New Jersey. No employees are
represented by a union except the leased employees who are subject to a
collective bargaining agreement with the City of Perth Amboy. We believe our
employee relations are good. Wages and benefits, other than for leased
employees, are reviewed annually and are considered competitive within both the
industry and the regions where we operate.
6
Competition
Our business in our franchised service area is substantially free from direct
competition with other public utilities, municipalities and other entities.
However, our ability to provide some contract water supply and wastewater
services and operations and maintenance services is subject to competition from
other public utilities, municipalities and other entities. Although Tidewater
has been granted an exclusive franchise for each of its existing community water
systems, its ability to expand service areas can be affected by the PSC awarding
franchises to other regulated water utilities with whom we compete for such
franchises.
Regulation
We are regulated as to rates charged to customers for water and wastewater
services in New Jersey and Delaware, as to the quality of the services we
provide and as to certain other matters. Only our USA, USA-PA and White Marsh
subsidiaries are not regulated utilities. We are subject to environmental and
water quality regulation by the United States Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA), and the DEP with respect to operations in New Jersey and DNREC, the
Delaware Department of Health and Social Services-Division of Public Health
(DPH), and the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) with respect to operations
in Delaware. In addition, our issuances of securities are subject to the prior
approval of the SEC and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) or the
PSC.
Regulation of Rates and Services
New Jersey water and wastewater service operations (excluding the operations of
USA-PA) are subject to regulation by the BPU. Similarly, our Delaware water and
wastewater operations are subject to regulation by the PSC. These regulatory
authorities have jurisdiction with respect to rates, service, accounting
procedures, the issuance of securities and other matters of utility companies
operating within the States of New Jersey and Delaware, respectively. For
ratemaking purposes, we account separately for operations in New Jersey and
Delaware to facilitate independent ratemaking by the BPU for New Jersey
operations and the PSC for Delaware operations.
In determining our rates, the BPU and the PSC consider the income, expenses,
rate base of property used and useful in providing service to the public and a
fair rate of return on that property each within its separate jurisdiction. Rate
determinations by the BPU do not guarantee particular rates of return to us for
our New Jersey operations nor do rate determinations by the PSC guarantee
particular rates of return for our Delaware operations. Thus, we may not achieve
the rates of return permitted by the BPU or the PSC.
Effective December 8, 2005, Middlesex Water Company received approval from the
BPU for an 8.7%, or $4.3 million increase in its water rates. This increase
represents a portion of the Company's May 2005 request for a total rate increase
of 13.1% to cover the costs of its increased capital investment, as well as
maintenance and operating expenses.
On August 10, 2005, Pinelands Water and Pinelands Wastewater filed with the BPU
for base rate increases of 16.7% and 6.1%, respectively. This increase
represents a total increase of approximately $150,000 to help offset the
increased costs associated with capital improvements, and the operation and
maintenance of those systems.
As part of an approved settlement with the PSC on October 19, 2004, Tidewater
was eligible to apply for a second phase rate increase of $0.5 million, provided
it completed a number of capital projects within a specified time schedule.
Tidewater filed an application for this increase on March 28, 2005. The new
rates became effective on April 27, 2005. Tidewater also agreed to waive its
right to file Distribution System Improvement Charges (DSIC) applications over
the subsequent three six-month cycles (January and July 2005, and January 2006)
and to defer making an application for a general rate increase until after April
27, 2006. The DSIC allows
7
a utility to promptly begin recovering depreciation expense and a return on the
capital invested for eligible distribution system improvements recently placed
into service.
In accordance with the tariff established for Southern Shores, a rate increase
of 3% based on the Consumer Price Index was implemented on January 1, 2006. The
increase cannot exceed the lesser of the regional Consumer Price Index or 3%.
The rates are set to expire on December 31, 2006, and the Company is currently
negotiating a new agreement.
There can be no assurance that any future rate increases will be granted or, if
granted, that they will be in the amounts requested.
Water Quality and Environmental Regulations
Both the EPA and the DEP regulate our operations in New Jersey with respect to
water supply, treatment and distribution systems and the quality of the water,
as do the EPA, DNREC, DPH and DRBC with respect to operations in Delaware.
Federal, New Jersey and Delaware regulations adopted relating to water quality
require us to perform expanded types of testing to ensure that our water meets
state and federal water quality requirements. In addition, environmental
regulatory agencies are reviewing current regulations governing the limits of
certain organic compounds found in the water as byproducts of treatment. We
participate in industry-related research to identify the various types of
technology that might reduce the level of organic, inorganic and synthetic
compounds found in the water. The cost to water companies of complying with the
proposed water quality standards depends in part on the limits set in the
regulations and on the method selected to implement such reduction. We believe
the CJO Plant capabilities put us in a strong position to meet any such future
standards with regard to our Middlesex System. We regularly test our water to
determine compliance with existing federal, New Jersey and Delaware primary
water quality standards.
Well water treatment in our Tidewater System is by chlorination and, in some
cases, pH correction and filtration for nitrate and iron removal.
Well water treatment in the Pinelands and Bayview Systems (disinfection only) is
done at individual well sites.
The DEP and the DPH monitor our activities and review the results of water
quality tests that are performed for adherence to applicable regulations. Other
regulations applicable to us include the Lead and Copper Rule, the maximum
contaminant levels established for various volatile organic compounds, the
Federal Surface Water Treatment Rule and the Total Coliform Rule.
8
Management
This table lists information concerning our executive management team:
Name Age Principal Position(s)
Dennis G. Sullivan 64 President and Chief Executive Officer
(retired January 1, 2006)
Dennis W. Doll 47 President and Chief Executive Officer
(effective January 1, 2006)
A. Bruce O'Connor 47 Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Ronald F. Williams 56 Vice President-Operations and Chief
Operating Officer
Kenneth J. Quinn 58 Vice President, General Counsel, Secretary
and Treasurer
James P. Garrett 59 Vice President-Human Resources
Richard M. Risoldi 49 Vice President-Subsidiary Operations
Gerard L. Esposito 54 President, Tidewater Utilities, Inc.
Dennis G. Sullivan - Mr. Sullivan has been a Director of Middlesex since 1999.
Mr. Sullivan was hired in 1984 as Corporate Attorney, responsible for general
corporate internal legal matters. He was elected Assistant Secretary-Assistant
Treasurer in 1988 and Vice President and General Counsel in 1990. He was elected
President and General Counsel in 2001 and became President and Chief Executive
Officer in January 2003. He was Chairman of the Board and a Director of
Tidewater Utilities, Inc., Tidewater Environmental Services, Inc., White Marsh
Environmental Systems, Inc., Pinelands Water Company, Pinelands Wastewater
Company, Utility Service Affiliates, Inc., Utility Service Affiliates (Perth
Amboy) Inc. and Bayview Water Company. Mr. Sullivan retired all of the officer
positions and subsidiary directorships held with the Company effective January
1, 2006. He was also a Director of the New Jersey Utilities Association and the
National Association of Water Companies until his retirement on January 1, 2006.
Dennis W. Doll - Mr. Doll, a Certified Public Accountant, joined the Company in
November 2004 as Executive Vice President. He was elected President and Chief
Executive Officer and became a Director of Middlesex effective January 1, 2006.
Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Doll was employed by Elizabethtown Water
Company since 1985, serving most recently as a member of the senior leadership
team of the Northeast Region of American Water, which was comprised of
Elizabethtown Water Company, New Jersey-American Water Company and Long Island
Water Corporation and included other regulated and non-regulated subsidiaries.
In this capacity, Mr. Doll served as Vice President - Finance & Controller and
served previously, as Vice President - Merger Integration. Prior to 2001, Mr.
Doll served as Vice President & Controller of Elizabethtown, Elizabethtown's
parent company, E'town Corporation, and various other regulated and
non-regulated subsidiaries, primarily engaged in the water and wastewater
fields. Effective January 1, 2006, Mr. Doll assumed the subsidiary directorships
previously held by Mr. Sullivan. Mr. Doll became a director of the New Jersey
Utilities Association and the National Association of Water Companies effective
January 1, 2006.
A. Bruce O'Connor - Mr. O'Connor, a Certified Public Accountant, joined the
Company in 1990 as Assistant Controller and was elected Controller in 1992 and
Vice President in 1995. He was elected Vice President and Controller and Chief
Financial Officer in 1996. In July 2004, his Controller responsibilities were
assigned to the newly created Corporate Controller position. He is responsible
for financial reporting, customer service, rate cases, cash management and
financings. He is Treasurer and a Director of Tidewater Utilities, Inc.,
Tidewater Environmental Services, Inc., Bayview Water Company, Utility Service
Affiliates, Inc., and White Marsh Environmental Systems, Inc. He is Vice
President, Treasurer and a Director of Utility Service Affiliates (Perth Amboy)
Inc., Pinelands Water Company and Pinelands Wastewater Company.
9
Ronald F. Williams - Mr. Williams was hired in 1995 as Assistant Vice
President-Operations, responsible for the Company's Engineering and Distribution
Departments. He was elected Vice President-Operations in October 1995. Mr.
Williams was elected to the additional posts of Assistant Secretary and
Assistant Treasurer for Middlesex in 2004. He was formerly employed with the
Garden State Water Company as President and Chief Executive Officer. He is a
Director and President of Utility Service Affiliates (Perth Amboy) Inc., and
Director of Utility Service Affiliates, Inc., Pinelands Water Company, Pinelands
Wastewater Company, and Bayview Water Company.
Kenneth J. Quinn - Mr. Quinn joined the Company in 2002 as General Counsel and
was elected Assistant Secretary in 2003. In 2004, Mr. Quinn was elected Vice
President, Secretary and Treasurer for Middlesex and Secretary and Assistant
Treasurer for all subsidiaries of Middlesex. He has been engaged in the practice
of law for 29 years and prior to joining the Company he had been employed by the
law firm of Schenck, Price, Smith and King in Morristown, New Jersey. Prior to
that, Mr. Quinn spent 10 years as in-house counsel to two major banking
institutions located in New Jersey. In May 2003, he was elected Assistant
Secretary of Tidewater Utilities, Inc., Pinelands Water Company, Pinelands
Wastewater Company, Utility Service Affiliates (Perth Amboy) Inc., Bayview Water
Company and White Marsh Environmental Systems, Inc. He is a Director of Utility
Service Affiliates (Perth Amboy) Inc., Utility Service Affiliates, Inc.,
Pinelands Water Company, Pinelands Wastewater Company, and Bayview Water
Company. He is a member of the New Jersey State Bar Association and is also a
member of the Public Utility Law Section of the Bar.
James P. Garrett - Mr. Garrett joined the Company in 2003 as Assistant Vice
President-Human Resources. In May 2004, he was elected Vice President- Human
Resources. Prior to his hire, Mr. Garrett was employed by Toys "R" Us, Inc. for
23 years, most recently as Director of Organizational Development. Mr. Garrett
is responsible for all human resource programs and activities at Middlesex Water
Company and its subsidiaries.
Richard M. Risoldi - Mr. Risoldi joined the Company in 1989 as Director of
Production, responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Company's
treatment and pumping facilities. He was appointed Assistant Vice President of
Operations in 2003. He was elected Vice President in May 2004, responsible for
regulated subsidiary operations and business development. He is a Director of
Tidewater Utilities, Inc., Tidewater Environmental Services, Inc., White Marsh
Environmental Systems Inc and USA-PA. He also serves as Director and President
of Pinelands Water Company, Pinelands Wastewater Company, Bayview Water Company
and Utility Service Affiliates, Inc.
Gerard L. Esposito - Mr. Esposito joined Tidewater Utilities, Inc. in 1998 as
Executive Vice President. He was elected President of Tidewater and White Marsh
Environmental Systems, Inc. in 2003 and elected President of Tidewater
Environmental Services, Inc. in January 2005. Prior to joining the Company he
worked for 22 years in various executive positions for Delaware environmental
protection and water quality governmental agencies. He is a Director of
Tidewater Utilities, Inc., Tidewater Environmental Services, Inc., and White
Marsh Environmental Systems, Inc.
10
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Our revenue and earnings depend on the rates we charge our customers. We cannot
raise utility rates without filing a petition with the appropriate governmental
agency. If these agencies modify, delay, or deny our petition, our revenues will
not increase and our earnings will decline unless we are able to reduce costs.
The BPU regulates all of our public utility companies in New Jersey with respect
to rates and charges for service, classification of accounts, awards of new
service territory, acquisitions, financings and other matters. That means, for
example, that we cannot raise the utility rates we charge to our customers
without first filing a petition with the BPU and going through a lengthy
administrative process. In much the same way, the PSC regulates our public
utility companies in Delaware. We cannot give assurances of when we will request
approval for any such matter, nor can we predict whether the BPU or PSC will
approve, deny or reduce the amount of such requests.
Certain costs of doing business are not within our control. The failure to
obtain any rate increase would prevent us from increasing our revenues and,
unless we are able to reduce costs, would result in reduced earnings.
We are subject to penalties unless we comply with environmental laws and
regulations, including water quality regulations. Compliance with those laws and
regulations impose costs on us.
The EPA and DEP regulate our operations in New Jersey with respect to water
supply, treatment and distribution systems and the quality of the water, as do
the EPA, DNREC, DPH and DRBC with respect to operations in Delaware. Federal,
New Jersey and Delaware regulations relating to water quality require us to
perform expanded types of testing to ensure that our water meets state and
federal water quality requirements. We are subject to EPA regulations under the
Federal Safe Drinking Water Act, which include the Lead and Copper Rule, the
maximum contaminant levels established for various volatile organic compounds,
the Federal Surface Water Treatment Rule and the Total Coliform Rule. There are
also similar state regulations by the DEP in New Jersey. The DEP and DPH monitor
our activities and review the results of water quality tests that we perform for
adherence to applicable regulations. In addition, environmental regulatory
agencies are reviewing current regulations governing the limits of certain
organic compounds found in the water as byproducts of treatment.
The cost to water companies of complying with the proposed water quality
standards depends in part on the limits set in the regulations and on the method
selected to implement them. Those costs could be very high and make us less
profitable if we cannot recover those costs through our rates that we charge our
customers.
We depend upon our ability to raise money in the capital markets to finance some
of the costs of complying with laws and regulations, including environmental
laws and regulations or to pay for some of the costs of improvements or the
expansion of our utility system assets. We cannot issue debt or equity
securities without regulatory approval.
We require financing to fund the ongoing capital program for the improvement of
our utility system assets and for planned expansion of that system. We project
that we may expend approximately $156.7 million for capital projects over the
next three years. We must have regulatory approval to sell debt or equity
securities to raise money for these projects. If sufficient capital is not
available or the cost of capital is too high, or if the regulatory authorities
deny a petition of ours to sell debt or equity securities, we would not be able
to meet the cost of complying with environmental laws and regulations or the
costs of improving and expanding our utility system assets. This might result in
the imposition of fines or restrictions on our operations and may curtail our
ability to improve upon and expand our utility system assets.
11
Weather conditions and overuse of underground aquifers may interfere with our
sources of water, demand for water services, and our ability to supply water to
customers.
Our ability to meet the existing and future water demands of our customers
depends on an adequate supply of water. Unexpected conditions may interfere with
our water supply sources. Drought and overuse of underground aquifers may limit
the availability of ground and surface water. These factors might adversely
affect our ability to supply water in sufficient quantities to our customers.
Governmental drought restrictions might result in decreased use of water
services and can adversely affect our revenue and earnings. Additionally, cool
and wet weather may reduce consumption demands, also adversely affecting our
revenue and earnings. Freezing weather may also contribute to water transmission
interruptions caused by pipe and main breakage. Any interruption in our water
supply could cause a reduction in our revenue and profitability.
Our water sources may become contaminated by naturally-occurring or man-made
compounds and events. This may cause disruption in services and impose costs to
restore the water to required levels of quality.
Our sources of water may become contaminated by naturally-occurring or man-made
compounds and events. In the event that our water supply is contaminated, we may
have to interrupt the use of that water supply until we are able to install
treatment equipment or substitute the flow of water from an uncontaminated water
source through our transmission and distribution systems. We may also incur
significant costs in treating the contaminated water through the use of our
current treatment facilities, or development of new treatment methods. Our
inability to substitute water supply from an uncontaminated water source, or to
adequately treat the contaminated water source in a cost-effective manner may
reduce our revenues and make us less profitable.
The necessity for increased security has and may continue to result in increased
operating costs.
In the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the ensuing threats
to the health and security of the United States of America, we have taken steps
to increase security measures at our facilities and heighten employee awareness
of threats to our water supply. We have tightened our security measures
regarding the delivery and handling of certain chemicals used in our business.
We are at risk for terrorist attacks and have and will continue to incur
increased costs for security precautions to protect our facilities, operations
and supplies from such risks.
We face competition from other utilities and service providers which might
hinder our growth and reduce our profitability.
We face risks of competition from other utilities authorized by federal, state
or local agencies. Once a utility regulator grants a service territory to a
utility, that utility is usually the only one to service that territory.
Although a new territory offers some protection against competitors, the pursuit
of service territories is competitive, especially in Delaware where new
territories may be awarded to utilities based upon competitive negotiation.
Competing utilities have challenged, and may in the future challenge, our
applications for new service territories. Also, third parties entering into
long-term agreements to operate municipal systems might adversely affect us and
our long-term agreements to supply water on a contract basis to municipalities.
We have a long-term contractual obligation for water and wastewater system
operation and maintenance under which we may incur costs in excess of payments
received.
Middlesex Water Company and USA-PA operate and maintain the water and wastewater
systems of the City of Perth Amboy, New Jersey under a multi-year contract. This
contract does not protect us against incurring costs in excess of payments we
will receive pursuant to the contract. There can be no assurance that we will
not experience losses resulting from this contract. Losses under this contract
or our failure or inability to perform
12
may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of
operations. Also, as of December 31, 2005, approximately $23.9 million of Perth
Amboy's bonds we have guaranteed remain outstanding. If Perth Amboy defaults on
its obligations to pay the bonds we have guaranteed, we would have to raise
funds to meet our obligations under that guarantee.
An important element of our growth strategy is the acquisition of water and
wastewater systems. Any pending or future acquisitions we decide to undertake
may involve risks.
The acquisition of water and wastewater systems is an important element in our
growth strategy. This strategy depends on identifying suitable acquisition
opportunities and reaching mutually agreeable terms with acquisition candidates.
The negotiation of potential acquisitions as well as the integration of acquired
businesses could require us to incur significant costs and cause diversion of
our management's time and resources. Further, acquisitions may result in
dilution of our equity securities, incurrence of debt and contingent
liabilities, fluctuations in quarterly results and other acquisition related
expenses. In addition, the business and other assets we acquire may not achieve
the sales and profitability expected.
We have restrictions on our dividends. There can also be no assurance that we
will continue to pay dividends in the future or, if dividends are paid, that
they will be in amounts similar to past dividends.
Our Restated Certificate of Incorporation and our Indenture of Mortgage dated as
of April 1, 1927, as supplemented, impose conditions on our ability to pay
dividends. We have paid dividends on our common stock each year since 1912 and
have increased the amount of dividends paid each year since 1973. Our earnings,
financial condition, capital requirements, applicable regulations and other
factors, including the timeliness and adequacy of rate increases, will determine
both our ability to pay dividends on common stock and the amount of those
dividends. There can be no assurance that we will continue to pay dividends in
the future or, if dividends are paid, that they will be in amounts similar to
past dividends.
We are subject to anti-takeover measures that may be used by existing management
to discourage, delay or prevent changes of control that might benefit
non-management shareholders.
Subsection 10A of the New Jersey Business Corporation Act, known as the
Shareholder Protection Act, applies to us. The Shareholder Protection Act deters
merger proposals, tender offers or other attempts to effect changes in our
control that are not negotiated and approved by our Board of Directors. In
addition, we have a classified Board of Directors, which means only one-third of
the Directors are elected each year. A classified Board can make it harder for
an acquirer to gain control by voting its candidates onto the Board of Directors
and may also deter merger proposals and tender offers. Our Board of Directors
also has the ability, subject to obtaining BPU approval, to issue one or more
series of preferred stock having such number of shares, designation,
preferences, voting rights, limitations and other rights as the Board of
Directors may fix. This could be used by the Board of Directors to discourage,
delay or prevent an acquisition that might benefit non-management shareholders.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
13
Item 2. Properties.
Utility Plant
The water utility plant in our systems consist of source of supply, pumping,
water treatment, transmission and distribution, general facilities and all
appurtenances, including all connecting pipes.
Middlesex System
The Middlesex System's principal source of surface supply is the Delaware &
Raritan Canal owned by the State of New Jersey and operated as a water resource
by the New Jersey Water Supply Authority.
Water is withdrawn from the Delaware & Raritan Canal at New Brunswick, New
Jersey through our intake and pumping station, which has a design capacity of 80
mgd and is located on state-owned land bordering the canal. The four electric
motor-driven, vertical turbine pumps presently installed have an aggregate
design capacity of 82 mgd. Water is transported through two of our raw water
pipelines for treatment and distribution at our CJO Plant in Edison, New Jersey.
One is a 4,900 foot, 54-inch reinforced concrete supply main. The other, which
went into service in April 2005, is a 6,100 foot, 60-inch ductile iron main. The
design capacity of our raw water supply mains is 80 mgd.
The CJO Plant includes chemical storage and chemical feed equipment, two dual
rapid mixing basins, four upflow clarifiers which are also called
superpulsators, four underground reinforced chlorine contact tanks, twelve rapid
filters containing gravel, sand and anthracite for water treatment and a steel
washwater tank. The CJO Plant also includes a computerized Supervisory Control
and Data Acquisitions system to monitor and control the CJO Plant and the water
supply and distribution system in the Middlesex System. There is an on site
State certified laboratory capable of performing bacteriological, chemical,
process control and advanced instrumental chemical sampling and analysis. The
firm design capacity of the CJO Plant is 45 mgd (60 mgd maximum capacity). The
main pumping station at the CJO Plant has a design capacity of 90 mgd. The four
electric motor-driven, vertical turbine pumps presently installed have an
aggregate capacity of 72 mgd.
In addition, there is a 15 mgd auxiliary pumping station located in a separate
building at the CJO Plant location. It has a dedicated substation and emergency
power supply provided by a diesel-driven generator. It pumps from the 10 million
gallon distribution storage reservoir directly into the distribution system.
The transmission and distribution system is comprised of 726 miles of mains and
includes 23,200 feet of 48-inch reinforced concrete transmission main connecting
the CJO Plant to our distribution pipe network and related storage facilities.
Also included is a 58,600 foot transmission main and a 38,800 foot transmission
main, augmented with a long-term, non-exclusive agreement with the East
Brunswick system to transport water to several of our contract customers.
Middlesex System's storage facilities consist of a 10 million gallon reservoir
at the CJO Plant, 5 million gallon and 2 million gallon reservoirs in Edison
(Grandview), a 5 million gallon reservoir in Carteret (Eborn) and a 2 million
gallon reservoir at the Park Avenue Well Field.
In New Jersey, we own the properties on which Middlesex System's 31 wells are
located, the properties on which our storage tanks are located as well as the
property where the CJO Plant is located. We also own our headquarters complex
located at 1500 Ronson Road, Iselin, New Jersey, consisting of a 27,000 square
foot office building and an adjacent 16,500 square foot maintenance facility.
14
Tidewater System
The Tidewater System is comprised of 87 production plants that vary in pumping
capacity from 26,000 gallons per day to 2.0 mgd. Water is transported to our
customers through 478 miles of transmission and distribution mains. Storage
facilities include 38 tanks, with an aggregate capacity of 5.0 million gallons.
Our Delaware operations are managed from Tidewater's leased offices in Dover,
Delaware and Millsboro, Delaware. Tidewater's Dover, Delaware office property,
located on property owned by White Marsh, consists of a 6,800 square foot office
building situated on an eleven-acre lot. White Marsh also owns a three-acre
parcel of raw land for which it is exploring several options for future use.
Pinelands System
Pinelands Water owns well site and storage properties that are located in
Southampton Township, New Jersey. The Pinelands Water storage facility is a 1.2
million gallon standpipe. Water is transported to our customers through 18 miles
of transmission and distribution mains.
Pinelands Wastewater System
Pinelands Wastewater owns a 12 acre site on which its 0.5 million gallons per
day capacity tertiary treatment plant and connecting pipes are located. Its
wastewater collection system is comprised of approximately 25 miles of main.
Bayview System
Bayview owns two well sites, which are located in Downe Township, Cumberland
County, New Jersey. Water is transported to its customers through our 3.5 mile
distribution system.
TESI System
TESI owns a wastewater treatment system located in Sussex County, Delaware on
which its 48,300 gallons per day sub-surface treatment plant and connecting
pipes are located. The collection system is still being fully installed and has
not yet been completed.
USA-PA, USA and White Marsh
Our non-regulated subsidiaries, namely USA-PA, USA and White Marsh, do not own
utility plant property.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
A lawsuit was filed in 1998 against the Company for damages involving the break
of both a Company water line and an underground electric power cable containing
both electric lines and petroleum based insulating fluid. The electric utility
also asserted claims against the Company. The lawsuit was settled in 2003, and
by agreement, the electric utility's counterclaim for approximately $1.1 million
in damages was submitted to binding arbitration, in which the agreed maximum
exposure of the Company is $0.3 million, for which the Company has an accrued
liability. While we are unable to predict the outcome of the arbitration, we
believe that we have substantial defenses.
15
During 2005, the Office of State Fire Marshal in Delaware issued a Notice of
Violation (NOV) to Tidewater regarding a plan of correction to provide fire
protection services to one of its community water systems, based upon a recent
interpretation of regulations that have been effective since 1989. Tidewater has
appealed this NOV in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware on the grounds
that the water system was grandfathered under the 1989 regulations and that due
process had not been served in the application of the recent interpretation. It
is the Company's position that Tidewater is not required to provide fire
protection service to that water system. Should Tidewater not be successful in
its appeal, it would be required to install a fire protection system in that
system with an estimated capital investment between $0.9 million and $1.6
million. If the Company is unsuccessful in its appeal, we cannot predict what
further actions, if any, or the costs or timing thereof, would have on over 60
of Tidewater's other community water systems. However, such amounts could be
material. The Company believes that any capital investments resulting from an
unfavorable outcome would be a component of its Delaware rate base and
therefore, included in future rates. While we are unable to predict the outcome
of our appeal, we believe that we have substantial defenses.
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits in the normal course of business.
We believe the resolution of pending claims and legal proceedings will not have
a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
None.
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters
and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
(a) Market Information
The Company's common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market, under the
symbol MSEX. The following table shows the range of high and low share prices
per share for the common stock and the dividend paid to shareholders in such
quarter.
2005 High Low Dividend
---- ---- --- --------
Fourth Quarter $23.34 $17.31 $0.1700
Third Quarter 23.47 19.05 0.1675
Second Quarter 20.00 17.07 0.1675
First Quarter 19.16 17.64 0.1675
2004 High Low Dividend
---- ---- --- --------
Fourth Quarter $20.72 $17.06 $0.1675
Third Quarter 19.50 16.65 0.1650
Second Quarter 21.81 18.83 0.1650
First Quarter 21.32 19.38 0.1650
16
(b) Approximate Number of Equity Security Holders as of December 31, 2005
Number of
Title of Class Record Holders
-------------- --------------
Common Stock, No Par Value 2,074
Cumulative Preferred Stock, No Par Value:
$7.00 Series 12
$4.75 Series 1
Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, No Par Value:
$7.00 Series 3
$8.00 Series 3
(c) Dividends
The Company has paid dividends on its common stock each year since 1912.
Although it is the present intention of the Board of Directors of the Company to
continue to pay regular quarterly cash dividends on its common stock, the
payment of future dividends is contingent upon the future earnings of the
Company, its financial condition and other factors deemed relevant by the Board
of Directors at its discretion.
If four or more quarterly dividends are in arrears, the preferred shareholders,
as a class, are entitled to elect two members to the Board of Directors in
addition to Directors elected by holders of the common stock. In the event
dividends on the preferred stock are in arrears, no dividends may be declared or
paid on the common stock of the Company. Substantially all of the Utility Plant
of the Company is subject to the lien of its mortgage, which also includes
certain restrictions as to cash dividend payments and other distributions on
common stock.
(d) Restricted Stock Plan
The Company maintains a shareholder approved restricted Stock Plan, under which
56,067 shares of the Company's common stock are held in escrow by the Company
for key employees. Such stock is subject to an agreement requiring forfeiture by
the employee in the event of termination of employment within five years of the
grant other than as a result of retirement, death or disability. The maximum
number of shares authorized for grant under this plan is 240,000 shares.
(e) Sale of Unregistered Securities
The Company did not issue any shares of unregistered securities during fiscal
years 2005, 2004, or 2003.
(f) Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The Company did not purchase any shares of its equity securities during fiscal
year 2005.
17
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(Thousands of Dollars Except per Share Data)
2005 2004 2003 2002 2001
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Revenues $ 74,613 $ 70,991 $ 64,111 $ 61,933 $ 59,638
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Expenses:
Operations and Maintenance 42,156 39,984 36,195 32,767 31,740
Depreciation 6,460 5,846 5,363 4,963 5,051
Other Taxes 8,779 8,228 7,816 7,737 7,594
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 57,395 54,058 49,374 45,467 44,385
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 17,218 16,933 14,737 16,466 15,253
Other Income, Net 740 795 358 442 502
Interest Charges 6,245 5,468 5,227 5,144 5,042
Income Taxes 3,237 3,814 3,237 3,999 3,760
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income 8,476 8,446 6,631 7,765 6,953
Preferred Stock Dividend 251 255 255 255 255
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings Applicable to Common Stock $ 8,225 $ 8,191 $ 6,376 $ 7,510 $ 6,698
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings per Share:
Basic $ 0.72 $ 0.74 $ 0.61 $ 0.73 $ 0.66
Diluted $ 0.71 $ 0.73 $ 0.61 $ 0.73 $ 0.66
Average Shares Outstanding:
Basic 11,445 11,080 10,475 10,280 10,131
Diluted 11,784 11,423 10,818 10,623 10,474
Dividends Declared and Paid $ 0.673 $ 0.663 $ 0.649 $ 0.634 $ 0.623
Total Assets $324,383 $305,634 $267,956 $251,971 $242,512
Convertible Preferred Stock $ 2,856 $ 2,961 $ 2,961 $ 2,961 $ 2,961
Long-term Debt $128,175 $115,281 $ 97,377 $ 87,483 $ 88,140
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operation.
The following discussions of the Company's historical results of operations and
financial condition should be read in conjunction with the Company's
consolidated financial statements and related notes.
Overview
Middlesex Water Company has operated as a water utility in New Jersey since
1897, and in Delaware, through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Tidewater, since
1992. We are in the business of collecting, treating, distributing and selling
water for domestic, commercial, municipal, industrial and fire protection
purposes. We also operate a New Jersey municipal water and wastewater system
under contract and provide wastewater services in New Jersey and Delaware
through our subsidiaries. We are regulated as to rates charged to customers for
water and wastewater services in New Jersey and for water services in Delaware,
as to the quality of water service we provide and as to certain other matters.
Our TESI subsidiary commenced operations during 2005 as a regulated wastewater
utility in Delaware. Only our USA, USA-PA and White Marsh subsidiaries are not
regulated utilities.
Our New Jersey water utility system (the Middlesex System) provides water
services to approximately 58,500 retail customers, primarily in central New
Jersey. The Middlesex System also provides water service under contract to
municipalities in central New Jersey with a total population of approximately
267,000. In partnership with our subsidiary, USA-PA, we operate the water supply
system and wastewater system for the City of Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Our other
New Jersey subsidiaries, Pinelands Water and Pinelands Wastewater, provide water
and wastewater services to residents in Southampton Township, New Jersey.
Our Delaware subsidiaries, Tidewater and Southern Shores, provide water services
to approximately 28,300 retail customers in New Castle, Kent and Sussex
Counties, Delaware. Our TESI subsidiary provides wastewater services to
approximately 20 residential retail customers. Our other Delaware subsidiary,
White Marsh, services an additional 4,000 customers in Kent and Sussex Counties.
The majority of our revenue is generated from retail and contract water services
to customers in our service areas. We record water service revenue as such
service is rendered and include estimates for amounts unbilled at the end of the
period for services provided after the last billing cycle. Fixed service charges
are billed in advance by our subsidiary, Tidewater, and are recognized in
revenue as the service is provided.
Our ability to increase operating income and net income is based significantly
on four factors: weather, adequate and timely rate relief, effective cost
management, and customer growth. These factors are evident in the discussions
below which compare our results of operations from prior years.
Operating Results by Segment
The Company has two operating segments, Regulated and Non-Regulated. Our
Regulated segment contributed 89% and 86% of total revenues, and 95% and 95% of
net income for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The
discussion of the Company's results of operations is on a consolidated basis,
and includes significant factors by subsidiary. The segments in the tables
included below are comprised of the following companies: Regulated- Middlesex,
Tidewater, Pinelands, Bayview, Southern Shores, and TESI; Non-Regulated- USA,
USA-PA, and White Marsh.
19
Results of Operations in 2005 Compared to 2004
(Millions of Dollars)
Fiscal Years ended December 31,
-------------------------------
2005 2004
---- | ----
Non- | Non-
Regulated Regulated Total | Regulated Regulated Total
--------- --------- ----- | --------- --------- -----
Revenues $66.3 $8.3 $74.6 | $60.8 $10.2 $71.0
Operations and maintenance 35.0 7.2 42.2 | 31.0 9.0 40.0
Depreciation 6.3 0.1 6.4 | 5.8 0.1 5.9
Other taxes 8.6 0.2 8.8 | 7.9 0.3 8.2
----------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income 16.4 0.8 17.2 | 16.1 0.8 16.9
----------------------------------------------------------------
|
Other income (expense) 0.7 0.0 0.7 | 0.8 0.0 0.8
Interest expense 6.1 0.1 6.2 | 5.4 0.1 5.5
Income taxes 2.9 0.3 3.2 | 3.5 0.3 3.8
----------------------------------------------------------------
Net income $8.1 $0.4 $8.5 | $8.0 $0.4 $8.4
----------------------------------------------------------------
Operating revenues for the year rose $3.6 million, or 5.1% over the same period
in 2004. Water sales improved by $3.6 million in our Middlesex system, of which
$1.8 million was a result of base rate increases that were granted to Middlesex
on May 27, 2004 and December 8, 2005, and $1.8 million was due to increased
consumption due to drier weather as compared to the prior year. Customer growth
of 9.2% in Delaware provided additional water consumption sales, facility
charges and connection fees of $0.9 million, and higher base rates provided $1.0
million. New unregulated wastewater contracts in Delaware provided $0.1 million
in additional revenues. USA had reduced revenues of $2.2 million as compared to
the prior year period, due to our meter services venture completing its original
contracts during December 2004. This decrease was partially offset by increased
revenues for USA's LineCareSM maintenance program of $0.1 million. All other
operations contributed $0.1 million of additional revenues.
While we anticipate continued organic customer and consumption growth among our
Delaware systems, such growth and increased consumption cannot be guaranteed.
Our water systems are highly dependent on the effects of weather, which may
adversely impact future consumption despite customer growth. Appreciable organic
customer and consumption growth is less likely in our New Jersey systems due to
the extent to which our service territory is developed.
Operation and maintenance expenses increased $2.2 million or 5.4% as compared to
the same period in 2004. In New Jersey, payroll and employee benefits costs
increased by $1.9 million. Water production costs for the Middlesex system
increased by $0.7 million due to higher demand and increased unit costs for
electricity, chemicals and residuals removal. Costs to operate the Tidewater
system increased $0.2 million, and increases in our Delaware employee base,
general wage increases and higher costs associated with employee medical and
retirement benefits increased costs by $1.0 million. Costs for providing
services under our contract with the City of Perth Amboy increased by $0.1
million. All other operating costs increased by $0.1 million. The costs of our
meter services venture decreased $1.8 million due to the completion of the
original projects during December 2004.
Going forward we anticipate increases in electric generation costs by as much as
40% beginning May 1, 2006 in Delaware due to deregulation of electricity. Our
pension and postretirement costs increased by $1.1 million during 2005 and we
expect these costs to increase by $0.4 million in 2006. Payroll and related
employee benefit costs (excluding pension and postretirement expenses previously
discussed) are also expected to be higher in 2006. These increasing costs, in
addition to higher business insurance, required us to file for a base rate
increase
20
with the BPU for Pinelands during 2005 and will require us to file for an
increase with the PSC for Tidewater during 2006. We cannot predict whether the
BPU or PSC will approve, deny or reduce the amount of any request.
Depreciation expense for 2005 increased by $0.6 million, or 10.5%, due to a
higher level of utility plant in service. As our investments in utility plant
and operating expenses increase, we continue to seek timely rate relief through
base rate filings as discussed above.
Other taxes increased by $0.6 million generally reflecting additional taxes on
higher taxable gross revenues, payroll and real estate.
Other income decreased $0.1 million, primarily due to reduced Allowance for
Funds Used During Construction (AFUDC) due to reduced capital spending as
compared to the prior year.
Interest expense increased by $0.8 million, or 14.2%, as a result of a higher
level of long-term debt, and higher average interest rates and increased
weighted average short-term borrowings as compared to the prior year period.
Income tax expense based on our current year operating results was $3.8 million,
which was partially offset by $0.6 million of tax benefits.
Net income increased to $8.5 million from $8.4 million in the prior year,
however basic earnings per share decreased from $0.74 to $0.72. Diluted earnings
per share decreased from $0.73 to $0.71. The earnings per share decrease was due
to an increase in average shares outstanding as compared to the prior year
period as a result of the sale of 700,000 shares of common stock on May 12,
2004, and shares issued under the Company's Dividend Reinvestment Plan during
2005.
Results of Operations in 2004 Compared to 2003
(Millions of Dollars)
Fiscal Years ended December 31,
-------------------------------
2004 2003
---- | ----
Amounts in millions Non- | Non-
Regulated Regulated Total | Regulated Regulated Total
--------- --------- ----- | --------- --------- -----
Revenues $60.8 $10.2 $71.0 | $55.7 $8.4 $64.1
Operations and maintenance 31.0 9.0 40.0 | 28.9 7.3 36.2
Depreciation 5.8 0.1 5.9 | 5.3 0.1 5.4
Other taxes 7.9 0.3 8.2 | 7.5 0.3 7.8
----------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income 16.1 0.8 16.9 | 14.0 0.7 14.7
----------------------------------------------------------------
Other income (expense) 0.8 0.0 0.8 | 0.3 0.0 0.3
Interest expense 5.4 0.1 5.5 | 5.0 0.2 5.2
Income taxes 3.5 0.3 3.8 | 3.0 0.2 3.2
----------------------------------------------------------------
Net income $8.0 $0.4 $8.4 | $6.3 $0.3 $6.6
----------------------------------------------------------------
Operating revenues for the year rose $6.9 million, or 10.7% over the same period
in 2003. Water sales improved by $2.9 million in our Middlesex system, which was
primarily a result of base rate increases. Customer growth of 10.4% in Delaware
provided additional consumption revenues of $1.2 million and higher base rates
provided $0.8 million. Our meter services venture provided $2.0 million of
additional revenues for completed meter installations. New unregulated
wastewater contracts in Delaware provided $0.3 million in additional revenues.
21
Base rate increases for our Pinelands system contributed $0.1 million of
additional revenues. Revenues from our operations and maintenance contracts
decreased $0.4 million due to scheduled reductions in fixed fees under the City
of Perth Amboy contract.
Operation and maintenance expenses increased $3.8 million or 10.5%. In New
Jersey, payroll costs, employee benefits and corporate governance related fees
increased costs by $1.1 million. Source of supply and pumping costs for the
Middlesex system increased by $0.7 million combined due to increased costs for
electricity and purchased water. Costs to operate the Tidewater system, as well
as an increase in our Delaware employee base, general wage increases and higher
costs associated with employee medical and retirement benefits increased costs
by $0.6 million. The costs of our meter services venture increased $1.6 million
due to completed installations. The costs of our non-regulated wastewater
operations and maintenance contracts increased $0.3 million due to additional
contracts obtained during the year. These increases were partially offset by
$0.4 million of reduced costs related to our City of Perth Amboy contract due to
reduced water treatment costs and a decrease of $0.1 million for water main
repair costs in our Middlesex system.
Depreciation expense for 2004 increased by $0.5 million, or 9.0%, due to a
higher level of utility plant in service.
Other taxes increased by $0.4 million generally reflecting additional taxes on
higher taxable gross revenues, payroll and real estate.
AFUDC rose by $0.3 million for the year, due to large construction projects in
New Jersey for the RENEW program and a new raw water pipeline. Other income
increased $0.1 million, primarily due the recognition of a gain on the sale of
real estate that had previously been deferred pending the outcome of the
Middlesex rate case.
Interest expense increased by $0.2 million, primarily due to higher average
long-term borrowings as compared to the prior year period.
Improved operating results in 2004 compared to 2003 led to higher income taxes
of $0.8 million, which was partially offset by $0.2 million of tax benefits.
Net income increased by 27.4% to $8.4 million from $6.6 million in the prior
year, and basic earnings per share increased from $0.61 to $0.74. Diluted
earnings per share increased from $0.61 to $0.73. The increase in earnings per
share was impacted by the higher number of shares outstanding during the current
year as a result of the sale of 700,000 shares of common stock in May 2004.
Outlook
In addition to some of the factors previously discussed under "Results of
Operations in 2005 Compared to 2004," our revenues are expected to increase in
2006 from anticipated customer growth in Delaware for our regulated water
operations and, to a lesser degree, from growth in our regulated wastewater
operations in Delaware. We received approval for an 8.7%, or $4.3 million base
rate increase for our Middlesex system in December 2005 and implemented the
second phase of the settlement of our 2004 Tidewater rate case in April 2005,
from which we expect to fully realize on an annualized basis in 2006. During
2005, we also filed for a combined 10.3%, or $0.2 million base rate increase for
our Pinelands systems. We expect a decision in the matter during the second
quarter of 2006.
We expect to file for a base rate increase for Tidewater during 2006. Revenues
and earnings for 2006 will be impacted by the ultimate timing and outcome of the
anticipated filing. Revenues and earnings will also be influenced by weather.
Changes in these factors, as well as increases in capital expenditures and
operating costs are the primary factors that determine the need for rate
increase filings.
22
We continue to explore viable plans to streamline operations and reduce costs in
all aspects of our business. We have unique challenges in Delaware, where
customer growth continues to exceed industry averages. Part of this unique
challenge is that our Delaware operations are a combination of over 87
stand-alone production and distribution systems serving 271 communities.
Our new regulated wastewater operation commenced operations during fiscal 2005.
Due to the start-up nature of this operation, we expect our expenses with
respect to this subsidiary may marginally exceed its revenues in 2006.
We expect our interest expense to increase during 2006 as a result of incurring
a full year of interest expense on the approximately $14.9 million of long-term
debt we financed during fiscal 2005 and higher expected average borrowings and
interest rates on short-term credit facilities in order to finance a portion of
our capital expenditures during the coming year (see Liquidity and Capital
Resources).
Our strategy includes continued revenue growth through acquisitions, internal
expansion, contract operations and when necessary, rate relief. We will continue
to pursue opportunities in both the regulated and non-regulated sectors that are
financially sound, complement existing operations and increase shareholder
value.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash flows from operations are largely based on three factors: weather, adequate
and timely rate increases, and customer growth. The effect of those factors on
net income is discussed in results of operations. For 2005, cash flows from
operating activities decreased $2.1 million to $13.5 million, as compared to the
prior year. This decrease was primarily attributable to the timing of collection
of customer accounts and payments to vendors. These decreases in cash flows were
partially offset by receipts of advance service fees and the timing of payments
for interest and employee benefit plans. The $13.5 million of net cash flow from
operations allowed us to fund approximately 53% of our utility plant
expenditures for the period internally, with the remainder funded with proceeds
from equity issued under our Dividend Reinvestment Plan and both short-term and
long-term borrowings.
For 2004, net cash flow from operations of $15.6 million, which increased over
2003 due to improved profitability during the period and the timing of payments
made toward prepaid expenses, materials and supplies, and employee benefit plans
allowed us to fund approximately 54% of our 2004 utility plant expenditures. Net
proceeds from both short-term and long-term borrowings were used to fund the
balance of those expenditures.
Increases in certain operating costs will impact our liquidity and capital
resources. As described in our results of operations discussion, during 2005 we
received rate relief for Middlesex and Tidewater. We also plan to file for a
base rate increase for Tidewater in 2006 as a result of continued capital
investment in Delaware. We also expect to receive a decision on the requested
Pinelands base rate increase in 2006. There is no certainty, however, that the
BPU or PSC will approve any or all of this or other future requested increases.
Sources of Liquidity
Short-Term Debt. As of December 31, 2005, the Company has established revolving
lines of credit aggregating $40.0 million. At December 31, 2005, the outstanding
borrowings under these credit lines were $4.0 million at a weighted average
interest rate of 5.09%. As of that date, the Company had borrowing capacity of
$36.0 million under its credit lines.
23
The weighted average daily amounts of borrowings outstanding under the Company's
credit lines and the weighted average interest rates on those amounts were $9.2
million and $8.9 million at 4.36% and 2.37% for the years ended December 31,
2005 and 2004, respectively.
Long-term Debt. Subject to regulatory approval, the Company periodically
finances capital projects under State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan programs in New
Jersey and Delaware. These government programs provide financing at interest
rates that are typically below rates available in the financial markets. A
portion of the borrowings under the New Jersey SRF is interest free. We
participated in the Delaware SRF loan programs during 2005 and expect to
participate in the 2006 New Jersey SRF program for $4.0 million.
During 2004, Middlesex closed on $16.6 million of first mortgage bonds through
the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust (NJEIT) under the New Jersey
SRF loan program in order to finance the costs of a new raw water pipeline and
our 2005 and 2006 RENEW programs. The proceeds of these bonds and any interest
earned are held by a trustee, and are classified as Restricted Cash on the
Consolidated Balance Sheet.
During 2005, Tidewater closed on a $2.0 million loan with the Delaware SRF
program and on a $14.0 million secured loan with CoBank, a financial institution
specializing in loans to rural utilities. The proceeds were used to fund the
ongoing capital program in Delaware.
Substantially all of the Utility Plant of the Company is subject to the lien of
its mortgage, which also includes debt service and capital ratio covenants,
certain restrictions as to cash dividend payments and other distributions on
common stock. The Company is in compliance with all of its mortgage covenants
and restrictions.
Common Stock. The Company periodically issues shares of common stock in
connection with its dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan. Periodically,
the Company may issue additional equity to reduce short-term indebtedness and
for other general corporate purposes. The Company issued shares under its
Dividend Reinvestment and Common Stock Purchase Plan at a 5% discount for a
six-month period during 2005. This allowed the Company to raise $3.7 million
through the plan during 2005, an increase of $2.2 million as compared to the
prior year. During 2004, the Company issued $15.1 million of common stock, which
included a common stock offering of 700,000 shares that was priced at $19.80 in
May. The majority of the net proceeds of approximately $12.9 million from the
common stock offering were used to repay most of the Company's short-term
borrowings outstanding at that time.
Capital Expenditures and Commitments
As shown in the following table, we expect our capital expenditures in 2006,
2007 and 2008 to increase over the 2005 amount of $25.3 million. These increases
are attributable to anticipated acquisitions and development for the TESI system
and continued customer growth and service improvement requirements in our
Tidewater systems in Delaware, where we spent $11.2 million on utility plant in
2005.
(Millions of Dollars)
2006 2007 2008
---- ---- ----
Delaware Water Systems $ 20.2 $ 19.4 $ 16.3
Delaware Wastewater Systems 13.9 30.5 8.8
RENEW Program 3.3 3.3 3.3
Scheduled Upgrades to Existing Systems 7.1 15.3 15.3
------- ------- -------
Total $ 44.5 $ 68.5 $ 43.7
======= ======= =======
24
Under our capital program for 2006, we plan to expend $20.2 million for
additions and improvements for our Delaware water systems, which include the
construction of several storage tanks and the creation of new wells and
interconnections. We expect to spend approximately $13.9 million for system
additions and acquisitions for our Delaware wastewater systems. We expect to
spend $3.3 million for our RENEW program, which is our program to clean and
cement line unlined mains in the Middlesex System. There remains a total of
approximately 120 miles of unlined mains in the 730-mile Middlesex System. In
2005, nine miles of unlined mains were cleaned and cement lined. The capital
program also includes $7.1 million for scheduled upgrades to our existing
systems in New Jersey. The scheduled upgrades consist of $1.4 million for
improvements to existing plant, $1.0 million for mains, $0.8 million for service
lines, $0.4 million for meters, $0.3 million for hydrants, and $3.2 million for
other infrastructure needs.
To pay for our capital program in 2006, we will utilize internally generated
funds and funds available and held in trust under existing NJEIT loans
(currently, $4.2 million) and Delaware SRF loans (currently, $2.9 million). The
SRF programs provide low cost financing for projects that meet certain water
quality and system improvement benchmarks. If necessary, we will also utilize
short-term borrowings through $36.0 million of available lines of credit with
several financial institutions. As of December 31, 2005, we had $4.0 million
outstanding against the lines of credit.
Going forward into 2007 through 2008, we currently project that we will be
required to expend approximately $112.2 million for capital projects. To the
extent possible and because of favorable interest rates available to regulated
water utilities, we will finance our capital expenditures under the SRF loan
programs. We also expect to use internally generated funds and proceeds from the
sale of common stock through the Dividend Reinvestment and Common Stock Purchase
Plan. We also expect to sell shares of our common stock through a public
offering in late 2006 or early 2007.
Tidewater is appealing a Notice of Violation regarding a plan of correction to a
community water system to provide fire protection services with an estimated
capital investment cost of between $0.9 million and $1.6 million. Should we not
be successful in asserting our defense, over 60 additional community water
systems could be subject to similar corrective plans of action. While we are
unable to estimate the potential capital investment costs for these additional
community water systems at this time, Tidewater believes these expenditures
would be subject to recovery in rates as set by the PSC. See Item 3. - Legal
Proceedings for additional discussion of this matter.
Contractual Obligations
In the course of normal business activities, the Company enters into a variety
of contractual obligations and commercial commitments. Some of these items
result in direct obligations on the Company's balance sheet while others are
commitments, some firm and some based on uncertainties, which are disclosed in
the Company's underlying consolidated financial statements.
25
The table below presents our known contractual obligations for the periods
specified as of December 31, 2005.
(Millions of Dollars)
Payment Due by Period
Less than 1-3 4-5 More than
Total 1 Year Years Years 5 Years
----- ------ ----- ----- -------
Long-term Debt $130.1 $ 1.9 $ 5.0 $ 5.2 $118.0
Notes Payable 4.0 4.0 -- -- --
Interest on Long-term Debt 110.0 6.5 12.8 10.6 80.1
Purchased Water Contracts 27.5 4.0 8.2 8.2 7.1
Wastewater Operations 59.3 3.9 8.1 8.5 38.8
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total $330.9 $ 20.3 $ 34.1 $ 32.5 $244.0
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Guarantees
USA-PA operates the City of Perth Amboy's (Perth Amboy) water and wastewater
systems under a service contract agreement through June 30, 2018. The agreement
was effected under New Jersey's Water Supply Public/Private Contracting Act and
the New Jersey Wastewater Public/Private Contracting Act. Under the agreement,
USA-PA receives a fixed fee and a variable fee based on increased system
billing. Scheduled fixed fee payments were $7.4 million in 2005 and will
increase over the term of the contract to $10.2 million at the end of the
contract.
In connection with the agreement, Perth Amboy, through the Middlesex County
Improvement Authority, issued approximately $68.0 million in three series of
bonds. Middlesex guaranteed one of those series of bonds, designated the Series
C Serial Bonds, in the principal amount of approximately $26.3 million. Perth
Amboy guaranteed the two other series of bonds. The Series C Serial Bonds have
various maturity dates with the final maturity date on September 1, 2015. As of
December 31, 2005, approximately $23.9 million of the Series C Serial Bonds
remained outstanding.
We are obligated to perform under the guarantee in the event notice is received
from the Series C Serial Bonds trustee of an impending debt service deficiency.
If Middlesex funds any debt service obligations as guarantor, there is a
provision in the agreement that requires Perth Amboy to reimburse us. There are
other provisions in the agreement that we believe make it unlikely that we will
be required to perform under the guarantee, such as scheduled annual rate
increases for the water and wastewater services as well as rate increases due to
unforeseen circumstances. In the event revenues from customers could not satisfy
the reimbursement requirements, Perth Amboy has Ad Valorem taxing powers, which
could be used to raise the needed amount.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The application of accounting policies and standards often requires the use of
estimates, assumptions and judgments. Changes in these variables may lead to
significantly different financial statement results. Our critical accounting
policies are set forth below.
Regulatory Accounting
We maintain our books and records in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America. Middlesex and certain of its
subsidiaries, which account for 89% of Operating Revenues and 99% of Total
Assets, are subject to regulation in the states in which they operate. Those
companies are required to maintain their accounts in accordance with regulatory
authorities' rules and guidelines, which may differ from other authoritative
accounting pronouncements. In those instances, the Company follows the guidance
26
provided in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 71, "Accounting For the Effects of
Certain Types of Regulation" (SFAS 71).
In accordance with SFAS No. 71, costs and obligations are deferred if it is
probable that these items will be recognized for rate-making purposes in future
rates. Accordingly, we have recorded costs and obligations, which will be
amortized over various future periods. Any change in the assessment of the
probability of rate-making treatment will require us to change the accounting
treatment of the deferred item. We have no reason to believe any of the deferred
items that are recorded would be treated differently by the regulators in the
future.
Revenues
Revenues from metered customers include amounts billed on a cycle basis and
unbilled amounts estimated from the last meter reading date to the end of the
accounting period. The estimated unbilled amounts are determined by utilizing
factors which include historical consumption usage and current climate
conditions. Differences between estimated revenues and actual billings are
recorded in a subsequent period.
Revenues from unmetered customers are billed at a fixed tariff rate in advance
at the beginning of each service period and are recognized in revenue ratably
over the service period.
Revenues from the Perth Amboy management contract are comprised of fixed and
variable fees. Fixed fees, which have been set for the life of the contract, are
billed monthly and recorded as earned. Variable fees, which are based on
billings and other factors and are not significant, are recorded upon approval
of the amount by Perth Amboy.
Pension Plan
We maintain a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan which covers
substantially all employees with more than 1,000 hours of service.
The discount rate utilized for determining future pension obligations has
decreased from 6.00% at December 31, 2003 to 5.88% at December 31, 2004 to 5.52%
at December 31, 2005. Lowering the discount rate by 0.5% would have increased
the net periodic pension cost by $0.3 million in 2005. Lowering the expected
long-term rate of return on the pension plans by 0.5% (from 8.0% to 7.5%) would
have increased the net periodic pension cost in 2005 by approximately $0.1
million.
The discount rate for determining future pension obligations is determined based
on market rates for long-term, high-quality corporate bonds at our December 31
measurement date. The expected long-term rate of return for pension assets is
determined based on historical returns and our asset allocation.
Future actual pension expense will depend on future investment performance,
changes in future discount rates and various other factors related to the
population participating in the pension plans.
Recent Accounting Standards
See Note 1(m) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion
of recent accounting pronouncements.
27
Item 7A. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
The Company is subject to the risk of fluctuating interest rates in the normal
course of business. Our policy is to manage interest rates through the use of
fixed rate long-term debt and, to a lesser extent, short-term debt. The
Company's interest rate risk related to existing fixed rate, long-term debt is
not material due to the term of the majority of our First Mortgage Bonds, which
have final maturity dates ranging from 2009 to 2038. Over the next twelve
months, approximately $1.9 million of the current portion of 15 existing
long-term debt instruments will mature. Combining this amount with the $4.0
million in short-term debt outstanding at December 31, 2005, and applying a
hypothetical change in the rate of interest charged by 10% on those borrowings,
would not have a material effect on our earnings.
28
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Middlesex Water Company:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and consolidated
statements of capital stock and long-term debt of Middlesex Water Company and
subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the related
consolidated statements of income, common stockholders' equity and comprehensive
income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
31, 2005. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 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, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2005
and 2004, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31, 2005, in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of the Company's
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005, based on the
criteria established in Internal Control--Integrated Framework issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report
dated March 16, 2006 expressed an unqualified opinion on management's assessment
of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting
and an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal
control over financial reporting.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Parsippany, New Jersey
March 16, 2006
29
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
ASSETS 2005 2004
==============================================================================================================================
UTILITY PLANT: Water Production $ 91,403,549 $ 82,340,798
Transmission and Distribution 217,098,466 194,531,035
General 23,292,087 20,451,215
Construction Work in Progress 6,127,634 13,013,391
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL 337,921,736 310,336,439
Less Accumulated Depreciation 54,960,290 52,017,761
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UTILITY PLANT - NET 282,961,446 258,318,678
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
==============================================================================================================================
CURRENT ASSETS: Cash and Cash Equivalents 2,983,762 4,034,768
Accounts Receivable, net 8,074,929 6,316,853
Unbilled Revenues 3,737,627 3,572,713
Materials and Supplies (at average cost) 1,259,935 1,203,906
Prepayments 927,254 823,976
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 16,983,507 15,952,216
==============================================================================================================================
DEFERRED CHARGES Unamortized Debt Expense 3,164,043 3,172,254
AND OTHER ASSETS: Preliminary Survey and Investigation Charges 1,774,817 1,032,182
Regulatory Assets 7,469,190 8,198,565
Operations Contracts Fees Receivable 685,599 685,599
Restricted Cash 5,782,705 13,257,106
Non-utility Assets - Net 5,042,207 4,552,023
Other 519,610 465,419
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS 24,438,171 31,363,148
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 324,383,124 $ 305,634,042
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITALIZATION: Common Stock, No Par Value $ 76,160,949 $ 71,979,902
Retained Earnings 23,638,301 23,103,908
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, net of tax (206,925) 44,841
================================================================================================
TOTAL COMMON EQUITY 99,592,325 95,128,651
================================================================================================
Preferred Stock 3,958,062 4,063,062
Long-term Debt 128,174,944 115,280,649
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CAPITALIZATION 231,725,331 214,472,362
==============================================================================================================================
CURRENT Current Portion of Long-term Debt 1,930,617 1,091,351
LIABILITIES: Notes Payable 4,000,000 11,000,000
Accounts Payable 6,038,060 6,001,806
Accrued Taxes 6,466,531 6,784,380
Accrued Interest 1,868,962 1,703,131
Unearned Revenues and Advanced Service Fees 473,627 387,156
Other 707,446 795,456
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 21,485,243 27,763,280
==============================================================================================================================
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Note 4)
==============================================================================================================================
DEFERRED CREDITS Customer Advances for Construction 17,180,962 14,018,006
AND OTHER LIABILITIES: Accumulated Deferred Investment Tax Credits 1,617,949 1,696,566
Accumulated Deferred Income Taxes 14,296,620 14,556,153
Employee Benefit Plans 6,650,724 5,464,056
Regulatory Liability - Cost of Utility Plant Removal 5,647,757 5,363,152
Other 793,857 849,551
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL DEFERRED CREDITS AND OTHER LIABILITIES 46,187,869 41,947,484
==============================================================================================================================
CONTRIBUTIONS IN AID OF CONSTRUCTION 24,984,681 21,450,916
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES $ 324,383,124 $ 305,634,042
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
30
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 31,
2005 2004 2003
=================================================================================================
Operating Revenues $ 74,613,305 $ 70,991,146 $ 64,111,214
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Expenses:
Operations 38,635,382 36,519,355 32,666,099
Maintenance 3,519,914 3,464,036 3,529,113
Depreciation 6,460,241 5,846,191 5,362,727
Other Taxes 8,779,325 8,228,354 7,815,918
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 57,394,862 54,057,936 49,373,857
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 17,218,443 16,933,210 14,737,357
=================================================================================================
Other Income (Expense):
Allowance for Funds Used During Construction 547,714 606,019 315,919
Other Income 219,572 221,950 131,499
Other Expense (27,593) (32,676) (89,931)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Other Income, net 739,693 795,293 357,487
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before Interest and Income Taxes 17,958,136 17,728,503 15,094,844
=================================================================================================
Interest Charges 6,244,671 5,468,576 5,227,030
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before Income Taxes 11,713,465 12,259,927 9,867,814
=================================================================================================
Income Taxes 3,237,324 3,814,418 3,237,218
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income 8,476,141 8,445,509 6,630,596
Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements 251,286 254,786 254,786
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings Applicable to Common Stock $ 8,224,855 $ 8,190,723 $ 6,375,810
=================================================================================================
Earnings per share of Common Stock:
Basic $ 0.72 $ 0.74 $ 0.61
Diluted $ 0.71 $ 0.73 $ 0.61
Average Number of
Common Shares Outstanding :
Basic 11,444,785 11,079,835 10,475,295
Diluted 11,783,925 11,422,975 10,818,435
Cash Dividends Paid per Common Share $ 0.673 $ 0.663 $ 0.649
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
31
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Twelve Months Ended December 31,
2005 2004 2003
-----------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net Income $ 8,476,141 $ 8,445,509 $ 6,630,596
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities:
Depreciation and Amortization 7,159,670 6,387,808 5,633,863
Provision for Deferred Income Taxes and ITC 164,873 603,275 306,919
Allowance for Funds Used During Construction (547,714) (606,019) (315,919)
Changes in Assets and Liabilities:
Accounts Receivable (1,758,076) (634,245) 345,694
Unbilled Revenues (164,914) (337,925) (53,697)
Materials & Supplies (56,029) 215,236 (228,805)
Prepayments (103,278) 185,328 (193,912)
Other Assets (151,166) (578,048) 275,802
Operations Contracts Receivable -- 14,207 (699,806)
Accounts Payable (17,933) 1,224,406 2,260,431
Accrued Taxes (323,227) 528,715 333,815
Accrued Interest 165,831 (107,508) 196,361
Employee Benefit Plans 709,988 377,068 (192,749)
Unearned Revenue & Advanced Service Fees 86,471 (215,698) 186,265
Other Liabilities (143,704) 56,913 (236,431)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 13,496,933 15,559,022 14,248,427
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Utility Plant Expenditures* (25,287,735) (28,878,576) (17,576,634)
Cash Surrender Value & Other Investments (294,372) (273,837) (466,290)
Restricted Cash 7,637,175 (9,431,686) 2,321,158
Proceeds from Real Estate Dispositions -- -- 532,922
Preliminary Survey & Investigation Charges (742,635) 348,589 (282,303)
Other Assets -- -- (47,264)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (18,687,567) (38,235,510) (15,518,411)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Redemption of Long-term Debt (1,214,521) (1,067,258) (884,427)
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt 14,948,082 18,995,153 11,205,723
Net Short-term Bank Borrowings (Repayments) (7,000,000) (1,500,000) (5,150,000)
Deferred Debt Issuance Expenses (166,477) (65,219) (194,484)
Common Stock Issuance Expense -- (379,534) (103,284)
Restricted Cash (162,774) -- 121
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock 4,076,047 15,055,874 3,609,859
Payment of Common Dividends (7,690,462) (7,375,629) (6,791,254)
Payment of Preferred Dividends (251,286) (254,786) (254,786)
Construction Advances and Contributions-Net 1,601,019 297,045 (99,768)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES 4,139,628 23,705,646 1,337,700
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CHANGES IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (1,051,006) 1,029,158 67,716
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 4,034,768 3,005,610 2,937,894
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR $ 2,983,762 $ 4,034,768 $ 3,005,610
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Excludes Allowance for Funds Used During Construction.
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITY:
Utility Plant received as Construction Advances and Contributions $ 5,149,990 $ 2,722,121 $ 3,753,037
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOWS INFORMATION:
Cash Paid During the Year for:
Interest $ 5,990,089 $ 5,409,083 $ 5,061,878
Interest Capitalized $ (547,714) $ (606,019) $ (315,919)
Income Taxes $ 3,792,000 $ 3,074,513 $ 2,472,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
32
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CAPITAL STOCK
AND LONG-TERM DEBT
December 31, December 31,
2005 2004
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Common Stock, No Par Value
Shares Authorized - 20,000,000
Shares Outstanding - 2005 - 11,584,499 $ 76,160,949 $ 71,979,902
2004 - 11,358,772
Retained Earnings 23,638,301 23,103,908
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, net of tax (206,925) 44,841
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL COMMON EQUITY $ 99,592,325 $ 95,128,651
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cumulative Preference Stock, No Par Value:
Shares Authorized - 100,000
Shares Outstanding - None
Cumulative Preferred Stock, No Par Value
Shares Authorized - 139,497 in 2005 and 140,497 in 2004
Convertible:
Shares Outstanding, $7.00 Series - 13,881 in 2005 and 14,881 in 2004 $ 1,457,505 $ 1,562,505
Shares Outstanding, $8.00 Series - 12,000 1,398,857 1,398,857
Nonredeemable:
Shares Outstanding, $7.00 Series - 1,017 101,700 101,700
Shares Outstanding, $4.75 Series - 10,000 1,000,000 1,000,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL PREFERRED STOCK $ 3,958,062 $ 4,063,062
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long-term Debt
8.05%, Amortizing Secured Note, due December 20, 2021 $ 2,983,384 $ 3,063,389
6.25%, Amortizing Secured Note, due May 22, 2028 9,415,000 9,835,000
6.44%, Amortizing Secured Note, due August 25, 2030 6,906,667 --
6.46%, Amortizing Secured Note, due September 19, 2031 7,000,000 --
4.22%, State Revolving Trust Note, due December 31, 2022 754,164 784,000
3.30% to 3.60%, State Revolving Trust Note, due May 1, 2025 3,018,254 2,348,316
3.49%, State Revolving Trust Note, due January 25, 2027 278,144 --
4.00% to 5.00%, State Revolving Trust Bond, due September 1, 2021 760,000 790,000
0.00%, State Revolving Fund Bond, due September 1, 2021 614,436 652,306
First Mortgage Bonds:
5.20%, Series S, due October 1, 2022 12,000,000 12,000,000
5.25%, Series T, due October 1, 2023 6,500,000 6,500,000
6.40%, Series U, due February 1, 2009 15,000,000 15,000,000
5.25%, Series V, due February 1, 2029 10,000,000 10,000,000
5.35%, Series W, due February 1, 2038 23,000,000 23,000,000
0.00%, Series X, due September 1, 2018 700,280 755,006
4.25% to 4.63%, Series Y, due September 1, 2018 870,000 920,000
0.00%, Series Z, due September 1, 2019 1,567,367 1,679,979
5.25% to 5.75%, Series AA, due September 1, 2019 1,990,000 2,085,000
0.00%, Series BB, due September 1, 2021 1,926,956 2,048,095
4.00% to 5.00%, Series CC, due September 1, 2021 2,185,000 2,275,000
5.10%, Series DD, due January 1, 2032 6,000,000 6,000,000
0.00%, Series EE, due September 1, 2024 7,715,909 7,715,909
3.00% to 5.50%, Series FF, due September 1, 2024 8,920,000 8,920,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUBTOTAL LONG-TERM DEBT 130,105,561 116,372,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less: Current Portion of Long-term Debt (1,930,617) (1,091,351)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL LONG-TERM DEBT $128,174,944 $115,280,649
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
33
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMMON STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Accumulated
Common Common Other
Stock Stock Retained Comprehensive
Shares Amount Earnings Income Total
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at January 1, 2003 10,356,489 $ 53,314,169 $ 23,187,076 $ -- $ 76,501,245
Net Income 6,630,596 6,630,596
Change in Value of Equity Investments,
Net of $26,000 Income Tax 50,808 50,808
------------
Comprehensive Income 6,681,404
------------
Dividend Reinvestment & Common
Stock Purchase Plan 192,515 3,263,569 3,263,569
Restricted Stock Award - Net 17,933 346,290 346,290
Cash Dividends on Common Stock (6,791,254) (6,791,254)
Cash Dividends on Preferred Stock (254,786) (254,786)
Common Stock Expenses (103,284) (103,284)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at December 31, 2003 10,566,937 $ 56,924,028 $ 22,668,348 $ 50,808 $ 79,643,184
Net Income 8,445,509 8,445,509
Change in Value of Equity Investments,
Net of $3,000 Income Tax (5,967) (5,967)
------------
Comprehensive Income 8,439,542
Dividend Reinvestment & Common Stock
Purchase Plan 76,935 1,533,507 1,533,507
Issuance of Common Stock 700,000 13,257,000 13,257,000
Restricted Stock Award - Net 14,900 265,367 265,367
Cash Dividends on Common Stock (7,375,629) (7,375,629)
Cash Dividends on Preferred Stock (254,786) (254,786)
Common Stock Expenses (379,534) (379,534)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at December 31, 2004 11,358,772 $ 71,979,902 $ 23,103,908 $ 44,841 $ 95,128,651
Net Income 8,476,141 8,476,141
Minimum Pension Liability, Net of
$135,000 Income Tax (262,205) (262,205)
Change in Value of Equity Investments,
Net of $5,000 Income Tax 10,439 10,439
------------
Comprehensive Income 8,224,375
Dividend Reinvestment & Common Stock
Purchase Plan 194,777 3,640,334 3,640,334
Restricted Stock Award - Net 18,950 435,713 435,713
Preferred Stock Conversion 12,000 105,000 105,000
Cash Dividends on Common Stock (7,690,462) (7,690,462)
Cash Dividends on Preferred Stock (251,286) (251,286)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Balance at December 31, 2005 11,584,499 $ 76,160,949 $ 23,638,301 $ (206,925) $ 99,592,325
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
34
Middlesex Water Company
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
(a) Organization - Middlesex Water Company (Middlesex) is the parent company and
sole shareholder of Tidewater Utilities, Inc. (Tidewater), Tidewater
Environmental Services, Inc. (TESI), Pinelands Water Company (Pinelands Water)
and Pinelands Wastewater Company (Pinelands Wastewater) (collectively,
Pinelands), Utility Service Affiliates, Inc. (USA), Utility Service Affiliates
(Perth Amboy) Inc. (USA-PA) and Bayview Water Company (Bayview). Southern Shores
Water Company, LLC (Southern Shores) and White Marsh Environmental Systems, Inc.
(White Marsh), are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Tidewater. The financial
statements for Middlesex and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the Company) are
reported on a consolidated basis. All significant intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated.
Middlesex Water Company has operated as a water utility in New Jersey since
1897, and in Delaware, through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Tidewater, since
1992. We are in the business of collecting, treating, distributing and selling
water for domestic, commercial, municipal, industrial and fire protection
purposes. We also operate a New Jersey municipal water and wastewater system
under contract and provide wastewater services in New Jersey and Delaware
through our subsidiaries. We are regulated as to rates charged to customers for
water and wastewater services in New Jersey and Delaware, as to the quality of
services we provide and as to certain other matters. Our TESI subsidiary
commenced operations during 2005 as a regulated wastewater utility in Delaware.
Only our USA, USA-PA and White Marsh subsidiaries are not regulated utilities.
(b) System of Accounts - Middlesex, Pinelands Water, Pinelands Wastewater and
Bayview maintain their accounts in accordance with the Uniform System of
Accounts prescribed by the Board of Public Utilities of the State of New Jersey
(BPU). Tidewater, TESI and Southern Shores maintain their accounts in accordance
with the Public Service Commission of Delaware (PSC) requirements.
(c) Utility Plant is stated at original cost as defined for regulatory purposes.
Property accounts are charged with the cost of betterments and major
replacements of property. Cost includes direct material, labor and indirect
charges for pension benefits and payroll taxes. The cost of labor, materials,
supervision and other expenses incurred in making repairs and minor replacements
and in maintaining the properties is charged to the appropriate expense
accounts. At December 31, 2005, there was no event or change in circumstance
that would indicate that the carrying amount of any long-lived asset was not
recoverable.
(d) Depreciation is computed by each regulated member of the Company utilizing a
rate approved by the applicable regulatory authority. The Accumulated Provision
for Depreciation is charged with the cost of property retired, less salvage. The
following table sets forth the range of depreciation rates for the major utility
plant categories used to calculate depreciation for the years ended December 31,
2005, 2004 and 2003. These rates have been approved by either the BPU or PSC:
Source of Supply 1.15% - 3.44% Transmission and Distribution (T&D):
Pumping 2.87% - 5.04% T&D - Mains 1.10% - 3.13%
Water Treatment 2.71% - 7.64% T&D - Services 2.12% - 2.81%
General Plant 2.08% - 17.84% T&D - Other 1.61% - 4.63%
Non-regulated fixed assets consist primarily of an office building, furniture
and fixtures, and transportation equipment. These assets are recorded at
original cost and depreciation is calculated based on the estimated useful
lives, ranging from 3 to 40 years.
35
(e) Customers' Advances for Construction - Water utility plant and/or cash
advances are contributed to the Company by customers, real estate developers and
builders in order to extend water service to their properties. These
contributions are recorded as Customers' Advances for Construction. Refunds on
these advances are made by the Company in accordance with agreements with the
contributing party and are based on either additional operating revenues related
to the utility plant or as new customers are connected to and take service from
the utility plant. After all refunds are made, any remaining balance is
transferred to Contributions in Aid of Construction.
Contributions in Aid of Construction - Contributions in Aid of Construction
include direct non-refundable contributions of water utility plant and/or cash
and the portion of Customers' Advances for Construction that become
non-refundable.
(f) Allowance for Funds Used During Construction (AFUDC) - Middlesex, Tidewater,
Pinelands Water, Pinelands Wastewater and Bayview capitalize AFUDC, which
represents the cost of financing projects during construction. AFUDC is added to
the construction costs of individual projects exceeding specific cost and
construction period thresholds established for each company and then depreciated
along with the rest of the utility plant's costs over its estimated useful life.
For the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 approximately $0.5 million,
$0.6 million and $0.3 million of AFUDC was added to the cost of construction
projects. AFUDC is calculated using each company's weighted cost of debt and
equity as approved in their most recent respective regulatory rate order. The
average AFUDC rate for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 for
Middlesex, Tidewater and Bayview were 7.39%, 8.37% and 3.11%, respectively.
Pinelands Water and Pinelands Wastewater did not incur AFUDC during the periods
covered by this report.
(g) Accounts Receivable - We record bad debt expense based on historical
accounts receivable write-offs. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $0.2
million at December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003. The corresponding expense for the
year ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 was $0.2 million, $0.1 million and
$0.2 million, respectively.
(h) Revenues - General metered customer's bills typically are broken down into
two components; a fixed service charge and a volumetric or consumption charge.
Revenues from general metered service customers, except Tidewater, include
amounts billed in arrears on a cycle basis and unbilled amounts estimated from
the last meter reading date to the end of the accounting period. The estimated
unbilled amounts are determined by utilizing factors which include historical
consumption usage and current climate conditions. Actual billings may differ
from our estimates. Revenues are adjusted in the period that the difference is
identified. Tidewater customers are billed in advance for their fixed service
charge and these revenues are recognized as the service is provided to the
customer.
Bayview and Southern Shores are unmetered systems. Customers are billed a fixed
service charge in accordance with the approved tariff. Southern Shore service
charges are billed in advance at the beginning of each month and are recognized
as earned. Bayview service charges are billed in advance at the beginning of
each calendar quarter and are recognized in revenue ratably over the quarter.
Revenues from the City of Perth Amboy management contract are comprised of fixed
and variable fees. Fixed fees, which have been set for the life of the contract,
are billed monthly and recorded as earned. Variable fees, which are not
significant, are recorded upon approval of the amount by the City of Perth
Amboy.
USA bills customers on a quarterly or annual basis for its LineCareSM service
line maintenance program. Quarterly amounts billed are recognized as earned.
Amounts that are billed on an annual basis are deferred and recognized as
revenue ratably over the year.
36
(i) Deferred Charges and Other Assets - Unamortized Debt Expense is amortized
over the lives of the related issues. Restricted Cash represents proceeds from
loans entered into through state financing programs and is held in trusts. The
proceeds are restricted for specific capital expenditures and debt service
requirements.
(j) Income Taxes - Middlesex files a consolidated federal income tax return for
the Company and income taxes are allocated based on the separate return method.
Investment tax credits have been deferred and are amortized over the estimated
useful life of the related property.
(k) Statements of Cash Flows - For purposes of reporting cash flows, the Company
considers all highly liquid investments with original maturity dates of three
months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents represent bank
balances and money market funds with investments maturing in less than 90 days.
(l) Use of Estimates - Conformity with accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements. Actual
results could differ from those estimates.
(m) Recent Accounting Pronouncements - In May 2005, the Financial Accounting
Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS)
No.154, "Accounting Changes and Error Corrections" (SFAS 154), which requires
retrospective application to prior periods' financial statements of voluntary
changes in accounting principles unless it is impracticable to determine either
the period-specific effects or the cumulative effect of the change. SFAS 154
makes a distinction between "retrospective application" of an accounting
principle and the "restatement" of financial statements to reflect the
correction of an error. SFAS 154 replaces Accounting Principles Bulletin (APB)
No. 20, "Accounting Changes" (APB 20), and SFAS No. 3, Reporting Accounting
Changes in Interim Financial Statements. APB 20 previously required that most
voluntary changes in accounting principles be recognized by including the
cumulative effect of changing to the new accounting principle in the net income
of the period of the change. SFAS 154 requires that a change in depreciation,
amortization or depletion method for long-lived non-financial assets be
accounted for as a change in accounting estimate affected by a change in
accounting principle, whereas APB 20 had required accounting for such a change
as a change in accounting principle. SFAS 154 carries forward the guidance in
APB 20 for reporting the correction of an error in previously issued financial
statements and a change in accounting estimate as well as the requirement for
justifying a change in accounting principle on the basis of a preference. This
statement is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005 (January 1, 2006 for the
Company).
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No.123(R), "Share-Based Payment" (SFAS
123(R)), which replaces SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation"
(SFAS 123), and supersedes APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees". The Statement requires that the cost resulting from all share-based
payment transactions be recognized in the financial statements. The Statement
also establishes fair value as the measurement objective in accounting for
share-based payment arrangements and requires all entities to apply a
fair-value-based measurement method in accounting for share-based payment
transactions with employees, except for equity instruments held by employee
share ownership plans. This statement was originally effective for quarters
beginning after June 15, 2005, however on April 14, 2005, the Securities and
Exchange Commission adopted a rule which makes the provisions of SFAS 123(R)
effective for the first annual reporting period beginning after June 15, 2005
(January 1, 2006 for the Company). The Company currently recognizes compensation
expense at fair value for stock-based payment awards in accordance with SFAS No.
123 "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," and does not anticipate adoption
of this standard will have a material impact on its financial position, results
of operations, or cash flows.
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 153, "Exchanges of Nonmonetary
Assets- an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29" (SFAS 153). SFAS 153 addresses the
measurement of exchanges of nonmonetary assets and redefines the scope of
transactions that should be measured based on the fair value of the assets
exchanged.
37
SFAS 153 is effective for nonmonetary asset exchanges occurring in quarters
beginning after June 15, 2005. The adoption of this standard did not have an
impact on its financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
On October 22, 2004, the American Jobs Creation Act (AJCA) was signed into law.
Among other provisions, the AJCA creates a new deduction for qualified domestic
production activities. Certain activities of the Company, such as our water
treatment activity, are considered as qualifying production activities for
purposes of determining the deduction for qualified production activities. In
December 2004, the FASB issued FSP 109-1, "Application of FASB Statement No.
109, Accounting for Income Taxes, to the Tax Deduction on Qualified Production
Activities Provided by the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004." In accordance
with FSP 109-1, the Company is treating the deduction for qualified domestic
production activities as a reduction of the income tax provision in the period
as realized. The adoption of this statement has not had a material impact on the
Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In May 2004, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) 106-2, "Accounting and
Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement
and Modernization Act of 2003" (FSP 106-2). FSP 106-2 provides guidance on the
accounting for the effects of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and
Modernization Act of 2003 (Medicare Drug Act) for employers who sponsor
postretirement health care plans that provide prescription drug benefits. FSP
106-2 also requires those employers to provide certain disclosures regarding the
effect of the federal subsidy provided by the Medicare Drug Act. The Medicare
Drug Act generally permits plan sponsors that provide retiree prescription drug
benefits that are "actuarially equivalent" to the benefits of Medicare Part D to
be eligible for a non-taxable federal subsidy. FSP 106-2 is effective for the
first interim or annual period beginning after June 15, 2004. FSP 106-2 provides
that if the effect of the Medicare Drug Act is not considered a significant
event, the measurement date for the adoption of FSP 106-2 is delayed until the
next regular measurement date. Based on discussions with its Actuary, Management
determined the effect of the Medicare Drug Act was not a significant event and
thus the Company is accounting for the effects of FSP 106-2 as of its next
measurement date. The adoption of FSP 106-2 on January 1, 2005 did not have a
material effect on the Company's financial statements.
In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached consensus on EITF
No. 03-1, "The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to
Certain Investments" (EITF 03-1). EITF 03-1 further defines the meaning of an
"other-than-temporary impairment" and its application to debt and equity
securities. Impairment occurs when the fair value of a security is less than its
cost basis. When such a condition exists, the investor is required to evaluate
whether the impairment is other-than-temporary as defined in EITF 03-1. When an
impairment is other-than-temporary, the security must be written down to its
fair value. EITF 03-1 also requires additional annual quantitative and
qualitative disclosures for available for sale and held to maturity impaired
investments that are not other-than temporarily impaired. On September 30, 2004,
the FASB issued FSP EITF 03-1-1, "Effective date of Paragraph's 10-20 of EITF
Issue No. 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its
Application to Certain Investments" (FSP EITF 03-1-1). FSP EITF 03-1-1 delayed
the effective date for the measurement and recognition guidance contained in
EITF 03-1 until further implementation guidance is issued. The Company does not
expect any material effects from the adoption of EITF 03-1 on its financial
statements.
In March 2005, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 47, "Accounting for
Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations" (FIN 47), to clarify the term
"conditional asset retirement obligation" as used in SFAS No. 143, "Accounting
for Asset Retirement Obligations" (SFAS 143). Conditional asset retirement
obligation refers to a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity
in which the timing and/or method of settlement are conditional on a future
event that may or may not be within the control of the entity. The obligation to
perform the asset retirement activity is unconditional even though uncertainty
exists about the timing and/or method of settlement. Accordingly, an entity is
required to recognize a liability for the fair value of a conditional asset
retirement obligation if the fair value of the liability can be reasonably
estimated. The fair value of a liability for
38
the conditional asset retirement obligation should be recognized when incurred,
generally, upon acquisition, construction, development and/or through the normal
operation of the asset. Uncertainty about the timing and/or method of settlement
should be factored into the measurement of the liability when sufficient
information exists. FIN 47 also clarifies when an entity would have sufficient
information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement
obligation. FIN 47 is effective no later than the end of fiscal years ending
after December 15, 2005 (December 31, 2005 for calendar-year enterprises). The
adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company's
financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
(n) Other Comprehensive Income - Total comprehensive income includes changes in
equity that are excluded from the consolidated statements of income and are
recorded into a separate section of capitalization on the consolidated balance
sheets. The Company's accumulated other comprehensive income shown on the
consolidated balance sheets consists of unrealized gains on investment holdings
and a minimum pension liability.
(o) Regulatory Accounting - We maintain our books and records in accordance with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Middlesex and certain of its subsidiaries, which account for 89% of Operating
Revenues and 99% of Total Assets, are subject to regulation in the state in
which they operate. Those companies are required to maintain their accounts in
accordance with regulatory authorities' rules and guidelines, which may differ
from other authoritative accounting pronouncements. In those instances, the
Company follows the guidance provided SFAS No. 71, "Accounting for the Effects
of Certain Types of Regulation."
(p) Pension Plan - We maintain a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan
which covers substantially all employees with more than 1,000 hours of service.
The discount rate utilized for determining pension costs decreased from 6.75%
for the year ended December 31, 2003 to 6.00% for the year ended December 31,
2004 to 5.88% for the year ended December 31, 2005. Future actual pension income
will depend on future investment performance, changes in future discount rates
and various other factors related to the population participating in the pension
plans.
Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters
Effective December 8, 2005, Middlesex received approval from the BPU for an
8.7%, or $4.3 million increase in its water rates. This increase represents a
portion of Middlesex's May 2005 request for a total rate increase of 13.1% to
cover the costs of its increased capital investment, as well as maintenance and
operating expenses.
On August 10, 2005, Pinelands Water and Pinelands Wastewater filed with the BPU
for increases of 16.7% and 6.1%, respectively. This increase represents a total
base rate increase of approximately $0.2 million to help offset the increased
costs associated with capital improvements, and the operation and maintenance of
their systems. A decision on this matter is expected during the second quarter
of 2006. There can be no assurance that any rate increases will be granted or,
if granted, that they will be in the amounts we requested.
As part of an approved settlement with the PSC on October 19, 2004, Tidewater
implemented the second phase rate increase of $0.5 million on April 27, 2005.
Tidewater also agreed to waive its right to file Distribution System Improvement
Charges (DSIC) applications until July 1, 2006 and to defer making an
application for a general rate increase until after April 27, 2006. The DSIC
allows a utility to promptly begin recovering depreciation expense and a return
on the capital invested for eligible distribution system improvements recently
placed into service.
In accordance with the tariff established for Southern Shores, an annual rate
increase of 3% was implemented on January 1, 2006. The increase cannot exceed
the lesser of the regional Consumer Price Index or 3%. The rates are set to
expire on December 31, 2006, and the Company is currently negotiating a new
agreement.
39
In December 2005, the BPU approved a merger of Bayview into the Middlesex system
effective January 1, 2006. As part of the BPU's stipulation approving the
merger, the water service rates for the customers of Bayview are to remain at
their current levels until the water service rates for Middlesex customers
exceed the current Bayview rates.
We have recorded certain costs as regulatory assets because we believe we will
be allowed full recovery of or are currently recovering these costs in the rates
that we charge customers. These deferred costs have been excluded from rate base
and, therefore, we are not earning a return on the unamortized balances.
(Thousands of Dollars)
Years Ended December 31,
Remaining
Recovery
Regulatory Assets 2005 2004 Periods
----------------- ---- ---- -------------
Income Taxes $6,167 $6,535 Various
Postretirement Benefits 610 697 7 years
Tank Painting 352 426 3-9 years
Rate Cases and Other 340 541 Up to 3 years
------ ------
Total $7,469 $8,199
====== ======
The recovery period for income taxes is dependent upon when the temporary
differences between tax and book will reverse.
The Company uses the composite depreciation method for its regulated utility
operations, which is currently an acceptable method of accounting under
generally accepted accounting principles and is widely used in the utility
industry. Historically, under the composite depreciation method, the anticipated
costs of removing assets upon retirement are provided for over the life of those
assets as a component of depreciation expense. The Company recovers certain
asset retirement costs through rates charged to customers as an approved
component of deprecation expense. As of December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company
has approximately $5.7 million and $5.4 million, respectively, of cost of
removal recovered in rates in excess of actual costs incurred. These amounts are
included in regulatory liabilities.
Bayview, Pinelands Water and Pinelands Wastewater are recovering in rates the
acquisition premiums totaling $0.8 million over the remaining lives of their
Utility Plant. These deferred costs have been included in their respective rate
bases as utility plant and are earning a return on the unamortized costs during
the recovery periods.
40
Note 3 - Income Taxes
Income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory
rate on book income subject to tax for the following reasons:
Years Ended December 31,
(Thousands of Dollars)
2005 2004 2003
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income Tax at Statutory Rate of 34% $ 3,982 $ 4,168 $ 3,355
Tax Effect of:
Utility Plant Related (899) (500) (171)
State Income Taxes - Net 176 167 106
Employee Benefits (25) (25) (67)
Other 3 4 14
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Income Tax Expense $ 3,237 $ 3,814 $ 3,237
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income tax expense is comprised of the following:
Current:
Federal $ 2,889 $ 3,128 $ 2,835
State 183 83 95
Deferred:
Federal 160 512 321
State 84 170 65
Investment Tax Credits (79) (79) (79)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Income Tax Expense $ 3,237 $ 3,814 $ 3,237
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The statutory review period for income tax returns for the years prior to 2002
has been closed.
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences
between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial purposes
and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The components of the net deferred
tax liability are as follows:
Years Ended December 31,
(Thousands of Dollars)
2005 2004
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Utility Plant Related $21,827 $21,293
Customer Advances (4,250) (4,263)
Employee Benefits (3,210) (2,568)
Other (70) 94
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Deferred Tax Liability $14,297 $14,556
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Company is required to record deferred income taxes for all temporary
differences regardless of the regulatory ratemaking treatment. Because
management believes that it is probable that these additional taxes will be
passed on to ratepayers, offsetting regulatory assets of $6.2 million and $6.5
million have been recorded at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
41
Note 4 - Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
Guarantees - USA-PA operates the City of Perth Amboy's (Perth Amboy) water and
wastewater systems under a service contract agreement through June 30, 2018. The
agreement was effected under New Jersey's Water Supply Public/Private
Contracting Act and the New Jersey Wastewater Public/Private Contracting Act.
Under the agreement, USA-PA receives a fixed fee and a variable fee based on
increased system billing. Scheduled fixed fee payments for 2005, 2004 and 2003
were $7.4 million, $7.4 million and $7.2 million, respectively. The fixed fees
will increase over the term of the contract to $10.2 million.
In connection with the agreement, Perth Amboy, through the Middlesex County
Improvement Authority, issued approximately $68.0 million in three series of
bonds. Middlesex guaranteed one of those series of bonds, designated the Series
C Serial Bonds, in the principal amount of approximately $26.3 million. Perth
Amboy guaranteed the two other series of bonds. The Series C Serial Bonds have
various maturity dates with the final maturity date on September 1, 2015. As of
December 31, 2005, approximately $23.9 million of the Series C Serial Bonds
remained outstanding.
We are obligated to perform under the guarantee in the event notice is received
from the Series C Serial Bonds trustee of an impending debt service deficiency.
If Middlesex funds any debt service obligations as guarantor, there is a
provision in the agreement that requires Perth Amboy to reimburse us. There are
other provisions in the agreement that we believe make it unlikely that we will
be required to perform under the guarantee, such as scheduled annual rate
increases for water and wastewater services as well as rate increases due to
unforeseen circumstances. In the event revenues from customers could not satisfy
the reimbursement requirements, Perth Amboy has Ad Valorem taxing powers, which
could be used to raise the needed amount.
Water Supply - Middlesex has an agreement with the New Jersey Water Supply
Authority (NJWSA) for the purchase of untreated water through November 30, 2023,
which provides for an average purchase of 27 million gallons a day (mgd).
Pricing is set annually by the NJWSA through a public rate making process. The
agreement has provisions for additional pricing in the event Middlesex
overdrafts or exceeds certain monthly and annual thresholds.
Middlesex also has an agreement with a non-affiliated regulated water utility
for the purchase of treated water. This agreement, which expired December 31,
2005 and is expected to be renewed for a five-year term under the same terms and
conditions, provides for the minimum purchase of 3 mgd of treated water with
provisions for additional purchases.
Purchased water costs are shown below:
(Millions of Dollars)
Years Ended December 31,
Purchased Water 2005 2004 2003
--------------- ------- ------- -------
Untreated $ 2.3 $ 2.2 $ 2.0
Treated 1.8 2.0 1.8
------- ------- -------
Total Costs $ 4.1 $ 4.2 $ 3.8
======= ======= =======
Construction - Based on its capital budget, the Company plans to spend
approximately $44.5 million in 2006, $68.5 million in 2007 and $43.7 million in
2008 on its construction program.
Litigation - A lawsuit was filed in 1998 against the Company for damages
involving the break of both a Company water line and an underground electric
power cable containing both electric lines and petroleum based insulating fluid.
The electric utility also asserted claims against the Company. The lawsuit was
settled in 2003, and by agreement, the electric utility's counterclaim for
approximately $1.1 million in damages was submitted to binding arbitration, in
which the agreed maximum exposure of the Company is $0.3 million, which
42
the Company has a liability accrued. While we are unable to predict the outcome
of the arbitration, we believe that we have substantial defenses.
During 2005, the Office of State Fire Marshal in Delaware issued a Notice of
Violation (NOV) to Tidewater regarding a plan of correction to provide fire
protection services to one of its community water systems, based upon a recent
interpretation of regulations that have been effective since 1989. Tidewater has
appealed this NOV in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware on the grounds
that the water system was grandfathered under the 1989 regulations and that due
process had not been served in the application of the recent interpretation. It
is the Company's position that Tidewater is not required to provide fire
protection service to that water system. Should Tidewater not be successful in
its appeal, it would be required to install a fire protection system in that
system with an estimated capital investment between $0.9 million and $1.6
million. If the Company is unsuccessful in its appeal, we cannot predict what
further actions, if any, or the costs or timing thereof, would have on over 60
of Tidewater's other community water systems. However, such amounts could be
material. The Company believes that any capital investments resulting from an
unfavorable outcome would be a component of its Delaware rate base and
therefore, included in future rates. While we are unable to predict the outcome
of our appeal, we believe that we have substantial defenses.
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits in the normal course of business.
We believe the resolution of pending claims and legal proceedings will not have
a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Change in Control Agreements - The Company has Change in Control Agreements with
certain of its Officers that provide compensation and benefits in the event of
termination of employment in connection with a change in control of the Company.
Note 5 - Short-term Borrowings
Information regarding the Company's short-term borrowings for the years ended
December 31, 2005 and 2004 is summarized below:
(Millions of Dollars)
2005 2004
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Established Lines at Year-End $ 40.0 $ 33.0
Maximum Amount Outstanding 16.0 13.5
Average Outstanding 9.2 8.9
Notes Payable at Year-End 4.0 11.0
Weighted Average Interest Rate 4.36% 2.37%
Weighted Average Interest Rate at Year-End 5.09% 3.42%
Year-end interest rates on short-term borrowings outstanding ranged from 4.69%
to 5.75% and 2.82% to 3.75% as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The
maturity dates for borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2005 are: January
3, 2006- $1.5 million; and February 27, 2006- $2.5 million.
The Company has lines of credit for up to $40.0 million. Short-term borrowings
are below the prime rate with no requirement for compensating balances.
Note 6 - Capitalization
All the transactions discussed below related to the issuance of securities were
approved by the BPU, except where otherwise noted.
43
Common Stock
In May 2004, the Company sold and issued 700,000 shares of its common stock in a
public offering that was priced at $19.80. The majority of the net proceeds of
approximately $12.9 million were used to repay most of the Company's short-term
borrowings outstanding at that time.
In August 2003, the Board of Directors approved a four-for-three stock split of
the Company's common stock, effective November 14, 2003 for shareholders of
record on November 1, 2003. All share, average number of shares and per share
amounts of no par common stock on the financial statements have been restated to
reflect the effect of the stock split.
The number of shares authorized under the Dividend Reinvestment and Common Stock
Purchase Plan (DRP) is 1,700,000 shares. The cumulative number of shares issued
under the DRP at December 31, 2005, is 1,511,502. For a six month period
beginning on June 1, 2005 and ending on December 1, 2005, DRP participants had
the opportunity to purchase the Company's common stock at a 5% discount with
reinvested dividends and optional cash payments. The Company also has a
restricted stock plan, which is described in Note 7 - Employee Benefit Plans.
In the event dividends on the preferred stock are in arrears, no dividends may
be declared or paid on the common stock of the Company. At December 31, 2005, no
preferred stock dividends were in arrears.
Preferred Stock
If four or more quarterly dividends are in arrears, the preferred shareholders,
as a class, are entitled to elect two members to the Board of Directors in
addition to Directors elected by holders of the common stock. At December 31,
2005 and 2004, 36,898 shares and 37,898 shares, respectively, of preferred stock
presently authorized were outstanding and there were no dividends in arrears.
The conversion feature of the no par $7.00 Series Cumulative and Convertible
Preferred Stock allows the security holders to exchange one convertible
preferred share for twelve shares of the Company's common stock. In addition,
the Company may redeem up to 10% of the outstanding convertible stock in any
calendar year at a price equal to the fair market value of twelve shares of the
Company's common stock for each share of convertible stock redeemed. During
September 2005, 1,000 shares of the no par $7.00 Series Cumulative and
Convertible Preferred Stock was converted into 12,000 of common stock.
The conversion feature of the no par $8.00 Series Cumulative and Convertible
Preferred Stock allows the security holders to exchange one convertible
preferred share for 13.714 shares of the Company's common stock. The preferred
shares are convertible into common stock at the election of the security holder
or Middlesex.
Long-term Debt
During 2005, Tidewater received approval from the PSC to finance up to $16.0
million in the form of long-term debt securities during the current year. Of
this amount, Tidewater received loan approval in April 2005 under the Delaware
State Revolving Fund (SRF) program of $2.0 million. Tidewater closed on this
loan on July 25, 2005. The Delaware SRF program allows, but does not obligate,
Tidewater to draw down against a General Obligation Note for two specific
projects over a two-year period ending in April 2007. The interest rate on any
draw-down will be set at 3.49%. On August 25, 2005, Tidewater converted $7.0
million of short-term borrowings to a $7.0 million mortgage-type loan to be
repaid over a term of 25 years. This loan bears interest at 6.44%. On September
15, 2005, Tidewater closed on another $7.0 million mortgage-type loan. This loan
bears interest at 6.46% and is to be repaid over a term of 26 years.
In November 2004, Middlesex issued $16.6 million of first mortgage bonds through
the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust under the New Jersey SRF
program. The Company closed on the first mortgage bonds designated as Series EE
and FF on November 4, 2004.
44
First Mortgage Bonds Series S through W and Series DD are term bonds with single
maturity dates. The aggregate annual principal repayment obligations for all
other long-term debt are shown below:
(Millions of Dollars)
Annual Annual
Year Maturities Year Maturities
---- ---------- ---- ----------
2006 $ 1.9 2009 $ 2.6
2007 $ 2.4 2010 $ 2.6
2008 $ 2.5
The weighted average interest rate on all long-term debt at December 31, 2005
and 2004 was 5.36% and 5.26%, respectively. Except for the Amortizing Secured
Notes and Series U First Mortgage Bonds, all of the Company's outstanding debt
has been issued through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority ($57.5
million), the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust program ($27.2
million) and the SRF program ($4.1 million).
Restricted cash includes proceeds from the Series Y, AA, BB, CC, EE and FF First
Mortgage Bonds and State Revolving Trust Bonds issuances. These funds are held
in trusts and restricted for specific capital expenditures and debt service
requirements. Series EE and FF proceeds can only be used for the construction of
a raw water pipeline and the 2005 and 2006 main cleaning and cement lining
programs. All other bond issuance balances in restricted cash are for debt
service requirements.
Substantially all of the Utility Plant of the Company is subject to the lien of
its mortgage, which also includes debt service and capital ratio covenants,
certain restrictions as to cash dividend payments and other distributions on
common stock. The Company is in compliance with all of its mortgage covenants
and restrictions.
Earnings Per Share
The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per
share (EPS) for the three years ended December 31, 2005. Basic EPS is computed
on the basis of the weighted average number of shares outstanding. Diluted EPS
assumes the conversion of both the Convertible Preferred Stock $7.00 Series and
$8.00 Series. All share and per share amounts reflect the four-for-three common
stock split, effective November 14, 2003.
(In Thousands of Dollars, Except per Share Amounts)
2005 2004 2003
Basic: Income Shares Income Shares Income Shares
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income $ 8,476 11,445 $ 8,446 11,080 $ 6,631 10,475
Preferred Dividend (251) (255) (255)
------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings Applicable to Common Stock $ 8,225 11,445 $ 8,191 11,080 $ 6,376 10,475
Basic EPS $ 0.72 $ 0.74 $ 0.61
Diluted:
Earnings Applicable to Common Stock $ 8,225 11,445 $ 8,191 11,080 $ 6,376 10,475
$7.00 Series Dividend 101 175 104 179 104 179
$8.00 Series Dividend 96 164 96 164 96 164
------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted Earnings Applicable to Common Stock
$ 8,422 11,784 $ 8,391 11,423 $ 6,576 10,818
Diluted EPS $ 0.71 $ 0.73 $ 0.61
45
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating its
fair value disclosure for financial instruments for which it is practicable to
estimate that value. The carrying amounts reflected in the consolidated balance
sheets for cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and trade
receivables and payables approximate their respective fair values due to the
short-term maturities of these instruments. The fair value of the Company's
long-term debt relating to first mortgage bonds is based on quoted market prices
for similar issues. The carrying amount and fair market value of the Company's
bonds were as follows:
(Thousands of Dollars)
At December 31,
2005 2004
---- ----
Carrying Fair Carrying Fair
Amount Value Amount Value
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Mortgage Bonds $98,376 $101,080 $98,899 $101,968
State Revolving Bonds $ 1,374 $ 1,402 $ 1,442 $ 1,476
For other long-term debt for which there was no quoted market price, it was not
practicable to estimate their fair value. The carrying amount of these
instruments at December 31, 2005 and 2004 was $30.3 million and $16.0 million,
respectively. Customer advances for construction have a carrying amount of $17.2
million and $14.0 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. Their
relative fair values cannot be accurately estimated since future refund payments
depend on several variables, including new customer connections, customer
consumption levels and future rate increases.
Note 7 - Employee Benefit Plans
Pension
The Company has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan, which covers
substantially all employees with more than 1,000 hours of service. In addition,
the Company maintains an unfunded supplemental pension plan for its executives.
The Accumulated Benefit Obligation for all pension plans at December 31, 2005
was $24.4 million.
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions
The Company has a postretirement benefit plan other than pensions for
substantially all of its retired employees. Coverage includes healthcare and
life insurance. Retiree contributions are dependent on credited years of
service. Accrued retirement benefit costs are recorded each year.
The Company has recognized a deferred regulatory asset relating to the
difference between the accrued retirement benefit costs and actual cash paid for
plan premiums in years prior to 1998. Included in the regulatory asset is a
transition obligation from adopting SFAS No.106, "Employers' Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions," on January 1, 1993. In addition to
the recognition of annual accrued retirement benefit costs in rates, Middlesex
is also recovering the transition obligation over 15 years. The regulatory
assets at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively were $0.6 million and $0.7
million.
The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for all of its employee benefit
plans. The following table sets forth information relating to the Company's
pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
46
(Thousands of Dollars)
Years Ended December 31,
Pension Benefits Other Benefits
2005 2004 2005 2004
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reconciliation of Projected Benefit Obligation
Beginning Balance $ 26,099 $ 23,671 $ 11,133 $ 9,498
Service Cost 1,126 746 621 426
Interest Cost 1,559 1,387 771 580
Actuarial (Gain)/Loss 2,141 1,516 3,130 1,028
Benefits Paid (1,259) (1,221) (408) (399)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ending Balance $ 29,666 $ 26,099 $ 15,247 $ 11,133
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reconciliation of Plan Assets at Fair Value
Beginning Balance $ 19,510 $ 18,587 $ 3,430 $ 2,582
Actual Return on Plan Assets 885 1,497 225 190
Employer Contributions 1,202 647 1,419 1,057
Benefits Paid (1,259) (1,221) (408) (399)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ending Balance $ 20,338 $ 19,510 $ 4,666 $ 3,430
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funded Status $ (9,328) $ (6,589) $(10,581) $ (7,703)
Unrecognized Net Transition Obligation -- -- 947 1,082
Unrecognized Net Actuarial (Gain)/Loss 5,163 2,655 7,533 4,835
Unrecognized Prior Service Cost 81 173 (3) (3)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accrued Benefit Cost $ (4,084) $ (3,761) $ (2,104) $ (1,789)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance
Sheets consist of:
Accrued Benefit Cost $ (4,084) $ (3,761) $ (2,104) $ (1,789)
Additional Minimum Liability (476) -- -- --
Intangible Asset 79 -- -- --
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (pre-tax) 397 -- -- --
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Liability Recognized $ (4,084) $ (3,761) $ (2,104) $ (1,789)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Separate Disclosure for Plans with Accumulated
Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets:
Projected Benefit Obligation $ 25,822
Accumulated Benefit Obligation 21,500
Fair Value of Plan Assets 20,338
47
(Thousands of Dollars)
Years Ended December 31,
Pension Benefits Other Benefits
2005 2004 2003 2005 2004 2003
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Service Cost $ 1,126 $ 746 $ 684 $ 622 $ 426 $ 263
Interest Cost 1,559 1,387 1,356 771 580 485
Expected Return on Plan Assets (1,547) (1,492) (1,272) (275) (213) (175)
Amortization of Net Transition Obligation -- -- -- 135 135 135
Amortization of Net Actuarial (Gain)/Loss 49 -- -- 482 292 143
Amortization of Prior Service Cost 92 92 92 -- -- --
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Periodic Benefit Cost $ 1,279 $ 733 $ 860 $ 1,735 $ 1,220 $ 851
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2005 2004 2003 2005 2004 2003
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Actual Return on Plan Assets 4.54% 8.18% 17.48% 5.71% 6.53% 0.77%
Weighted Average Assumptions:
Expected Return on Plan Assets 8.00% 8.00% 8.00% 7.50% 7.50% 7.50%
Discount Rate for:
Benefit Obligation 5.52% 5.88% 6.00% 5.52% 5.88% 6.00%
Benefit Cost 5.88% 6.00% 6.75% 5.88% 6.00% 6.75%
Compensation Increase for:
Benefit Obligation 3.50% 3.50% 3.50% 3.50% 3.50% 3.50%
Benefit Cost 3.50% 3.50% 3.50% 3.50% 3.50% 3.50%
For measurement purposes, a 9.0% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost
of covered healthcare benefits was assumed for 2005 and declining by 1.0% per
year through 2008 and 0.5% per year to 5% by year 2010. Assumed healthcare cost
trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the healthcare
plan. A one-percentage point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates would
have the following effects:
(Thousands of Dollars)
1 Percentage Point
Increase Decrease
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effect on Current Year's Service and Benefit Cost $ 330 $ (247)
Effect on Benefit Obligation 2,430 (1,894)
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are
expected to be paid:
Year Pension Benefits Other Benefits
---------------------------------------------------------------
2006 $ 1,249 $ 430
2007 1,449 471
2008 1,542 479
2009 1,565 529
2010 1,568 544
2011-2015 8,596 2,374
------- ------
Totals $15,969 $4,827
======= ======
48
Benefit Plans Assets
The benefit plans asset allocations at December 31, 2005 and 2004, by asset
category are as follows:
Pension Plan Other Benefits
------------ --------------
Asset Category 2005 2004 2005 2004 Target Range
-------------- ---- ---- ---- ---- ------ -----
Equity Securities 63.7% 62.8% 56.3% 54.0% 60% 30-65%
Debt Securities 33.4 34.5 41.0 36.9 38% 25-70%
Cash 2.9 2.7 2.7 9.1 2% 0-10%
----- ----- ----- -----
Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
===== ===== ===== =====
Middlesex utilizes two investment firms to manage its pension plan asset
portfolio. One of those investment firms also manages the other postretirement
benefits assets. Quarterly meetings are held between the Company's Pension
Committee of the Board of Directors and the investment managers to review their
performance and asset allocation. If the current asset allocation is outside the
targeted range, the Pension Committee reviews current market conditions and
advice provided by the investment managers to determine the appropriateness of
rebalancing the portfolio.
The investment objective of the Company is to maximize its long-term return on
benefit plan assets, relative to a reasonable level of risk, maintain a
diversified investment portfolio and invest in compliance with the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The expected long-term rate of return is
based on the various asset categories in which it invests and the current
expectations and historical performance for these categories.
Equity securities include Middlesex common stock in the amounts of $0.7 million
(3.3% of total plan assets) and $0.7 million (3.8% of total plan assets) at
December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
For the pension plan, Middlesex made total cash contributions of $1.2 million in
2005 and expects to make cash contributions of approximately $1.0 million in
2006.
For the postretirement benefit plan, Middlesex made total cash contributions of
$1.0 million in 2005 and expects to make cash contributions of approximately
$1.2 million in 2006.
401(k) Plan
The Company has a 401(k) defined contribution plan, which covers substantially
all employees with more than 1,000 hours of service. Under the terms of the
Plan, the Company matches 100% of a participant's contributions, which do not
exceed 1% of a participant's compensation, plus 50% of a participant's
contributions exceeding 1% but not more than 6%. The Company's matching
contributions were $0.3 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2005,
2004 and 2003.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company maintains a Restricted Stock Plan, under which 56,067 shares of the
Company's common stock are held in escrow by the Company as of December 31, 2005
for key employees. Such stock is subject to an agreement requiring forfeiture by
the employee in the event of termination of employment within five years of the
award other than as a result of retirement, death, disability or change in
control. The maximum number of shares authorized for grant under this plan is
240,000 shares.
The Company recognizes compensation expense at fair value for the restricted
stock awards in accordance with SFAS No. 123 "Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation." Compensation expense is determined by the market value of the
stock on the date of the award and is being amortized over a five-year period.
49
The following table presents information on the Restricted Stock Plan:
Weighted
Unearned Average
Shares Compensation Grant Price
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, January 1, 2003 77,566 $ 552,081
Granted 18,900 357,990 $ 18.95
Vested (26,099)
Forfeited (967) (11,700)
Amortization of Compensation Expense (286,199)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, December 31, 2003 69,400 612,172
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Granted 14,900 265,367 $ 17.81
Vested (19,067)
Amortization of Compensation Expense (271,298)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, December 31, 2004 65,233 606,241
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Granted 19,000 435,713 $ 22.95
Vested (28,166)
Amortization of Compensation Expense (342,122)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, December 31, 2005 56,067 $ 699,832
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note 8 - Business Segment Data
The Company has identified two reportable segments. One is the regulated
business of collecting, treating and distributing water on a retail and
wholesale basis to residential, commercial, industrial and fire protection
customers in parts of New Jersey and Delaware. It also operates a regulated
wastewater system in New Jersey. The Company is subject to regulations as to its
rates, services and other matters by the states of New Jersey and Delaware with
respect to utility service within these states. The other segment is
non-regulated contract services for the operation and maintenance of municipal
and private water and wastewater systems in New Jersey and Delaware.
Inter-segment transactions relating to operational costs are treated as
pass-through expenses. Finance charges on inter-segment loan activities are
based on interest rates that are below what would normally be charged by a third
party lender.
50
(Thousands of Dollars)
Twelve Months Ended December 31,
Operations by Segments: 2005 2004 2003
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues:
Regulated $ 66,317 $ 60,745 $ 55,707
Non - Regulated 8,416 10,366 8,500
Inter-segment Elimination (120) (120) (96)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Revenues $ 74,613 $ 70,991 $ 64,111
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income:
Regulated $ 16,390 $ 16,075 $ 14,025
Non - Regulated 828 858 713
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Operating Income $ 17,218 $ 16,933 $ 14,738
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Depreciation:
Regulated $ 6,357 $ 5,762 $ 5,308
Non - Regulated 103 84 55
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Depreciation $ 6,460 $ 5,846 $ 5,363
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Income, Net:
Regulated $ 836 $ 892 $ 506
Non - Regulated -- (1) (33)
Inter-segment Elimination (96) (96) (116)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Other Income, Net $ 740 $ 795 $ 357
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest Expense:
Regulated $ 6,245 $ 5,469 $ 5,227
Non - Regulated 96 96 116
Inter-segment Elimination (96) (96) (116)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Interest Charges $ 6,245 $ 5,469 $ 5,227
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income:
Regulated $ 8,037 $ 7,993 $ 6,292
Non - Regulated 439 453 339
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Net Income $ 8,476 $ 8,446 $ 6,631
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capital Expenditures:
Regulated $ 25,016 $ 28,669 $ 17,005
Non - Regulated 272 210 572
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Capital Expenditures $ 25,288 $ 28,879 $ 17,577
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of As of
December 31, December 31,
2005 2004
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assets:
Regulated $ 320,889 $ 302,765
Non - Regulated 5,912 4,943
Inter-segment Elimination (2,418) (2,074)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Assets $ 324,383 $ 305,634
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
51
Note 9 - Quarterly Operating Results - Unaudited
Quarterly operating results for 2005 and 2004 are as follows:
(Thousands of Dollars, Except per Share Data)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
2005
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Revenues $16,743 $18,431 $20,832 $18,607 $74,613
Operating Income 3,171 4,259 6,013 3,775 17,218
Net Income 1,380 1,946 3,024 2,126 8,476
Basic Earnings per Share $ 0.12 $ 0.17 $ 0.26 $ 0.17 $ 0.72
Diluted Earnings per Share $ 0.12 $ 0.16 $ 0.26 $ 0.17 $ 0.71
2004
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Revenues $15,876 $17,770 $19,856 $17,489 $70,991
Operating Income 2,728 4,128 6,212 3,865 16,933
Net Income 1,034 1,890 3,362 2,160 8,446
Basic Earnings per Share $ 0.09 $ 0.17 $ 0.29 $ 0.19 $ 0.74
Diluted Earnings per Share $ 0.09 $ 0.16 $ 0.29 $ 0.19 $ 0.73
The information above, in the opinion of the Company, includes all adjustments
consisting only of normal recurring accruals necessary for a fair presentation
of such amounts. The business of the Company is subject to seasonal fluctuation
with the peak period usually occurring during the summer months.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure.
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
(1) Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that
are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in Company
reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed,
summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and
Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures
include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that
information required to be disclosed in Company reports filed under the Exchange
Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company's Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely
decisions regarding disclosure.
52
As required by Rule 13a-15 under the Exchange Act, an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls
and procedures was conducted by the Company's Chief Executive Officer along with
the Company's Chief Financial Officer for the quarter ended December 31, 2005.
Based upon that evaluation, which included consideration of the remediation of
the material weakness that led to the restatements, the Company's Chief
Executive Officer and the Company's Chief Financial Officer concluded that the
Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the
period covered by this report. Accordingly, management believes that the
consolidated financial statements included in this report fairly present in all
material respects our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows
for the periods presented.
As described in the Company's 2004 annual report on Form 10-K/A, first and
second quarter 2005 filings on Form 10-Q/A and in the third quarter filing on
Form 10-Q, in November 2005, the Company identified a material weakness related
to the controls over the recording of non-cash contributions of utility assets
from developers and the presentation of such non-cash items in the statement of
cash flows. In order to remediate this deficiency, during the fourth quarter of
2005, the Company implemented additional procedures related to recording
non-cash contributions of utility assets from developers, expanded its periodic
review of non-cash activities and expanded its review of the presentation of
non-cash transactions. This change had a material affect on internal control
over financial reporting.
53
(2) Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The management of Middlesex Water Company (Middlesex or the Company) is
responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over
financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13A-15(f) and 15d-15(f).
Middlesex's internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance
to the Company's management and Board of Directors regarding the adequate
preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.
All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent
limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can
provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the adequacy of financial
statement preparation and presentation. Middlesex's management assessed the
effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2005. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set
forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission
(COSO) in Internal Control- Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, we
believe that as of December 31, 2005, the Company's internal control over
financial reporting is operating as designed and is effective based on those
criteria.
Middlesex's independent registered public accounting firm has issued their
report on our assessment of the Company's internal control over financial
reporting. This report appears on pages 55 and 56.
/s/ Dennis W. Doll /s/ A. Bruce O'Connor
----------------------- -------------------------
Dennis W. Doll A. Bruce O'Connor
President and Chief Vice President and Chief
Executive Officer Financial Officer
Iselin, New Jersey
March 16, 2006
54
(3) Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Middlesex Water Company:
We have audited management's assessment, included in the accompanying
Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, that Middlesex
Water Company and subsidiaries (the Company) maintained effective internal
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005, based on criteria
established in Internal Control--Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is
responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting
and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial
reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management's
assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control
over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective
internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material
respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over
financial reporting, evaluating management's assessment, testing and evaluating
the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such
other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe
that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by,
or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal
financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the
company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide
reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to
the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly
reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2)
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to
permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are
being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of
the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely
detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial
reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management
override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be
prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of
the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future
periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because
of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or
procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, management's assessment that the Company maintained effective
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005, is fairly
stated, in all material respects, based on the criteria established in Internal
Control--Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Also in our opinion, the Company
maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2005, based on the criteria established in Internal
Control--Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
55
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets and
consolidated statements of capital stock and long-term debt of the Company as of
December 31, 2005, and the related consolidated statements of income, common
stockholders' equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for the year ended
December 31, 2005 and our report dated March 16, 2006 expressed an unqualified
opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Parsippany, New Jersey
March 16, 2006
Item 9B. Other Information.
None.
56
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.
Information with respect to Directors of Middlesex Water Company is included in
Middlesex Water Company's Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
Information regarding the Executive Officers of Middlesex Water Company is
included under Item 1. in Part I of this Annual Report.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
This Information for Middlesex Water Company is included in Middlesex Water
Company's Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is
incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
This information for Middlesex Water Company is included in Middlesex Water
Company's Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is
incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.
This information for Middlesex Water Company is included in Middlesex Water
Company's Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is
incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
This information for Middlesex Water Company is included in Middlesex Water
Company's Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is
incorporated herein by reference.
57
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
1. The following Financial Statements and Supplementary Data are included
in Part II- Item 8. of this annual report:
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2005 and 2004.
Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003.
Consolidated Statements of Capital Stock and Long-term Debt at
December 31, 2005 and 2004.
Consolidated Statements of Common Stockholders Equity and
Comprehensive Income for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
2. Financial Statement Schedules
-----------------------------
All Schedules are omitted because of the absence of the conditions
under which they are required or because the required information
is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits
--------
See Exhibit listing immediately following the signature page.
58
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities and
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
MIDDLESEX WATER COMPANY
By: /s/ Dennis W. Doll
------------------------------------------
Dennis W. Doll
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Date: March 16, 2006
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons, on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities on March 16, 2006.
By: /s/ A. Bruce O'Connor
------------------------------------------
A. Bruce O'Connor
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
By: /s/ Dennis W. Doll
------------------------------------------
Dennis W. Doll
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
By: /s/ J. Richard Tompkins
------------------------------------------
J. Richard Tompkins
Chairman of the Board and Director
By: /s/ Dennis G. Sullivan
------------------------------------------
Dennis G. Sullivan
Director
By: /s/ Annette Catino
------------------------------------------
Annette Catino
Director
By: /s/ John C. Cutting
------------------------------------------
John C. Cutting
Director
By: /s/ John R. Middleton
------------------------------------------
John R. Middleton
Director
By: /s/ John P. Mulkerin
------------------------------------------
John P. Mulkerin
Director
By: /s/ Walter G. Reinhard
------------------------------------------
Walter G. Reinhard
Director
By: /s/ Jeffries Shein
------------------------------------------
Jeffries Shein
Director
59
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibits designated with an asterisk (*) are filed herewith. The exhibits not so
designated have heretofore been filed with the Commission and are incorporated
herein by reference to the documents indicated in the previous filing columns
following the description of such exhibits. Exhibits designated with a dagger
(t) are management contracts or compensatory plans.
Previous Filing's
Registration Exhibit
Exhibit No. Document Description No. No.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.1 Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended, filed
as Exhibit 3.1 of 1998 Form 10-K.
*3.2 Bylaws of the Company, as amended
3.3 Certificate of Correction of Middlesex Water Company filed with
the State of New Jersey on April 30, 1999, filed as Exhibit 3.3
of 2003 Form 10-K.
3.4 Certificate of Amendment to the Restated Certificate of
Incorporation Middlesex Water Company, filed with the State of
New Jersey on February 17, 2000, filed as Exhibit 3.4 of 2003
Form 10-K.
3.5 Certificate of Amendment to the Restated Certificate of
Incorporation Middlesex Water Company, filed with the State of
New Jersey on June 5, 2002, filed as Exhibit 3.5 of 2003 Form
10-K.
4.1 Form of Common Stock Certificate. 2-55058 2(a)
4.2 Registration Statement, Form S-3, under Securities Act of
1933 filed February 3, 1987, relating to the Dividend
Reinvestment and Common Stock Purchase Plan. 33-11717
4.3 Revised Prospectus relating to the Dividend Reinvestment and
Common Stock Purchase Plan, Submitted to the Securities and
Exchange Commission, January 20, 2000. 33-11717
4.4 Post Effective Amendments No. 7, Form S-3, under Securities
Act of 1933 filed February 1, 2002, relating to the Dividend
Reinvestment and Common Stock Purchase Plan. 33-11717
10.1 Copy of Purchased Water Agreement between the Company
and Elizabethtown Water Company, filed as Exhibit 10.1 of
1996 Form 10-K.
10.2 Copy of Mortgage, dated April 1, 1927, between the Company and
Union County Trust Company, as Trustee, as supplemented by
Supplemental Indentures, dated as of October
1, 1939 and April 1, 1949. 2-15795 4(a)-4(f)
10.3 Copy of Supplemental Indenture, dated as of July 1, 1964 and
June 15, 1991, between the Company and Union County Trust
Company, as Trustee. 33-54922 10.4-10.9
10.4 Copy of Supply Agreement, dated as of November 17, 1986,
between the Company and the Old Bridge Municipal Utilities
Authority. 33-31476 10.12
10.5 Copy of Supply Agreement, dated as of July 14, 1987,
between the Company and the Marlboro Township Municipal
Utilities Authority, as amended. 33-31476 10.13
60
EXHIBIT INDEX
Previous Filing's
Registration Exhibit
Exhibit No. Document Description No. No.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.6 Copy of Supply Agreement, dated as of February 11, 1988, with
modifications dated February 25, 1992, and April 20, 1994,
between the Company and the Borough of Sayreville filed as
Exhibit No. 10.11 of 1994 First Quarter Form 10-Q.
10.7 Copy of Water Purchase Contract, dated as of
September 25, 2003, between the Company and the New
Jersey Water Supply Authority, filed as Exhibit No. 10.7 of
2003 Form 10-K.
10.8 Copy of Treating and Pumping Agreement, dated April 9,
1984, between the Company and the Township of East
Brunswick. 33-31476 10.17
10.9 Copy of Supply Agreement, dated June 4, 1990, between the
Company and Edison Township. 33-54922 10.24
10.10 Copy of Supply Agreement, between the Company and the
Borough of Highland Park, filed as Exhibit No. 10.15 of 1996
Form 10-K.
(t)10.11 Copy of Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, filed as
Exhibit 10.13 of 1999 Third Quarter Form 10-Q.
(t)10.12 Copy of 1989 Restricted Stock Plan, filed as Appendix B to
the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement, dated and filed
April 25, 1997. 33-31476 10.22
(t)10.13(a) Employment Agreement between Middlesex Water Company
and Dennis G. Sullivan, filed as Exhibit 10.15(f) of 1999 Third
Quarter Form 10-Q.
(t)10.13(b) Employment Agreement between Middlesex Water Company and A.
Bruce O'Connor, filed as Exhibit 10.15(c) of 1999 Third Quarter
Form 10-Q.
(t)10.13(d) Employment Agreement between Middlesex Water Company and Richard
M. Risoldi, filed as Exhibit 10.13(d) of 2003 Form 10-K.
(t)10.13(e) Employment Agreement between Middlesex Water Company and Kenneth
J. Quinn, filed as Exhibit 10.13(e) of 2003 Form 10-K.
(t)10.13(f) Employment Agreement between Middlesex Water Company and James
P. Garrett, filed as Exhibit 10.13(f) of 2003 Form 10-K.
(t)10.13(g) Employment Agreement between Tidewater Utilities, Inc. and
Gerard L. Esposito, filed as Exhibit 10.13(g) of 2003 Form 10-
K.
*(t)10.13(h) Consulting Agreement between Middlesex Water Company and J.
Richard Tompkins
(t)10.13(i) Employment Agreement between Middlesex Water Company and Dennis
W. Doll, filed as Exhibit 10.13(i) of 2004 Form 10-K.
61
EXHIBIT INDEX
Previous Filing's
Registration Exhibit
Exhibit No. Document Description No. No.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.14 Copy of Transmission Agreement, dated October 16, 1992,
between the Company and the Township of East Brunswick. 33-54922 10.23
10.15 Copy of Supplemental Indentures, dated September 1, 1993,
(Series S & T) and January 1, 1994, (Series U & V), between the
Company and United Counties Trust Company, as Trustee, filed as
Exhibit No. 10.22 of 1993 Form 10-K.
10.16 Copy of Trust Indentures, dated September 1, 1993, (Series S &
T) and January 1, 1994, (Series V), between the New Jersey
Economic Development Authority and First Fidelity Bank (Series S
& T), as Trustee, and Midlantic National Bank (Series V), as
Trustee, filed as Exhibit No. 10.23 of 1993 Form 10-K.
10.17 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 1998 between
Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank, as
Trustee. Copy of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 1998 between
the New Jersey and Middlesex Water Company (Series X), filed as
Exhibit No. 10.22 of the 1998 Third Quarter Form 10-Q.
10.18 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 1998
between Middlesex Water Company and First Union National
Bank, as Trustee. Copy of Loan Agreement dated November
1, 1998 between the State of New Jersey Environmental
Infrastructure Trust and Middlesex Water Company (Series
Y), filed as Exhibit No. 10.23 of the 1998 Third Quarter Form
10-Q.
10.19 Copy of Operation, Maintenance and Management Services
Agreement dated January 1, 1999 between the Company City
of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County Improvement Authority
and Utility Service Affiliates, Inc. 333-66727 10.24
10.20 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 1999
between Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank,
as Trustee and copy of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 1999
between the State of New Jersey and Middlesex Water Company
(Series Z), filed as Exhibit No. 10.25 of the 1999 Form 10-K.
10.21 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 1999 between
Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank, as
Trustee and copy of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 1999
between the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust and
Middlesex Water Company (Series AA), filed as Exhibit No. 10.26
of the 1999 Form 10-K.
62
EXHIBIT INDEX
Previous Filing's
Registration Exhibit
Exhibit No. Document Description No. No.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.22 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 2001 between
Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank, as
Trustee and copy of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 2001
between the State of New Jersey and Middlesex Water Company
(Series BB). Filed as Exhibit No. 10.22 of the 2001 Form 10-K.
10.23 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 2001 between
Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank, as
Trustee and copy of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 2001
between the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust and
Middlesex Water Company (Series CC). Filed as Exhibit No. 10.22
of the 2001 Form 10-K.
10.24 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated January 15, 2002 between
Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank, as
Trustee and copy of Loan Agreement dated January 1, 2002
between the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and
Middlesex Water Company (Series DD), filed as Exhibit No. 10.24
of the 2001 Form 10-K.
10.25 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated March 1, 1998 between
Middlesex Water Company and First Union National Bank, as
Trustee. Copy of Trust Indenture dated March 1, 1998 between
the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and PNC Bank,
National Association, as Trustee (Series W), filed as Exhibit
No. 10.21 of the 1998 Third Quarter Form 10- Q.
10.26 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 2004 between
Middlesex Water Company and Wachovia Bank, as Trustee and copy
of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 2004 between the State of
New Jersey and Middlesex Water Company (Series EE), filed as
Exhibit No. 10.26 of the 2004 Form 10-K.
10.27 Copy of Supplemental Indenture dated October 15, 2004 between
Middlesex Water Company and Wachovia Bank, as Trustee and copy
of Loan Agreement dated November 1, 2004 between the New Jersey
Environmental Infrastructure Trust and Middlesex Water Company
(Series FF), filed as Exhibit No. 10.27 of the 2004 Form 10-K.
10.28 Agreement dated September 26, 2005 between Dennis G.
Sullivan and Middlesex Water Company, filed as Exhibit 10 of
the 2005 Third Quarter Form 10-Q.
*21 Middlesex Water Company Subsidiaries.
*23 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
*31 Section 302 Certification by Dennis W. Doll pursuant to Rules
13a-14 and 15d-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
63
EXHIBIT INDEX
Previous Filing's
Registration Exhibit
Exhibit No. Document Description No. No.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*31.1 Section 302 Certification by A. Bruce O'Connor pursuant to
Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934.
*32 Section 906 Certification by Dennis W. Doll pursuant to 18
U.S.C.ss.1350.
*32.1 Section 906 Certification by A. Bruce O'Connor pursuant to
18 U.S.C.ss.1350.
64