pre14a
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No. ____)
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Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) |
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Definitive Proxy Statement |
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Definitive Additional Materials |
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Soliciting Material Pursuant to 240.14a-11(c) or 240.14a-12 |
Badger Meter, Inc.
(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if other than the Registrant)
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PRELIMINARY
NOTICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DATED MARCH 7, 2008
BADGER METER, INC.
4545 West Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53223
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
April 25, 2008
The Annual Meeting of the shareholders of Badger Meter, Inc. will be held at Badger Meter,
Inc., 4545 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53223, on Friday, April 25, 2008, at 8:30
a.m., local time, for the following purposes:
1. To elect three directors to three-year terms;
2. To consider approval of the Badger Meter, Inc. 2008 Restricted Stock Plan;
3. To approve an amendment to our Restated Articles of Incorporation to declassify the
Board of Directors; and
4. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any
adjournments or postponements thereof.
Holders of record of our common stock at the close of business on February 29, 2008, are
entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting and any adjournments or postponements thereof.
Shareholders are entitled to one vote per share.
Please vote the enclosed proxy form, sign and return it in the envelope provided. You retain
the right to revoke the proxy at any time before it is actually voted.
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By Order of the Board of Directors |
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William R. A. Bergum, Secretary |
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March ___, 2008
PRELIMINARY
PROXY STATEMENT SUBJECT TO CHANGE DATED MARCH 7, 2008
BADGER METER, INC.
4545 West Brown Deer Road
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53223
PROXY STATEMENT
To the Shareholders of
BADGER METER, INC.
We are furnishing you with this Proxy Statement in connection with the solicitation of proxies
by the Board of Directors of Badger Meter, Inc. to be used at our Annual Meeting of Shareholders
(referred to as the annual meeting), which will be held at 8:30 a.m., local time, on Friday, April
25, 2008, at Badger Meter, Inc., 4545 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53223, and at any
adjournments or postponements thereof.
If you execute a proxy, you retain the right to revoke it at any time before it is voted by
giving written notice to us or in open meeting, or by submitting a valid proxy bearing a later
date. Unless you revoke your proxy, your shares will be voted at the annual meeting.
Since you were a shareholder of record as of the close of business on February 29, 2008, you
are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the annual meeting. As of the record date, we had
14,540,021 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. You are entitled to one vote
for each of your shares.
We commenced mailing this Proxy Statement on or about March ___, 2008.
NOMINATION AND ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
You and other holders of the common stock are entitled to elect three directors at the annual
meeting. Directors will be elected by a plurality of votes cast at the annual meeting (assuming a
quorum is present). If you do not vote your shares at the annual meeting, whether due to
abstentions, broker nonvotes or otherwise, and a quorum is present, they will have no impact on the
election of directors.
If you submit a proxy to us, it will be voted as you direct. If, however, you submit a proxy
without specifying voting directions, it will be voted in favor of the election of each of the
three nominees for director identified below. If your shares are held in street name by your
broker, your broker may vote your shares in its discretion on the election of directors if you do
not furnish instructions. Once elected, a director currently serves for a three-year term or until
his successor has been duly appointed, or until his death, resignation or removal. However, if the
proposal relating to declassification of our Board of Directors is approved, then beginning at the
2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders all directors will be elected annually to one-year terms.
The nominees of the Board of Directors for director, together with certain additional
information concerning each such nominee, are identified below. All of the nominees are current
directors of our company. If any nominee is unable or unwilling to serve, the named proxies have
discretionary authority to select and vote for substitute nominees. The Board of Directors has no
reason to believe that any of the three nominees will be unable or unwilling to serve.
NOMINEES FOR ELECTION TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
TERMS EXPIRING AT THE 2011 ANNUAL MEETING
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Name |
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Age |
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Business Experience During Last Five Years |
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Director Since |
Ronald H. Dix
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63 |
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Badger Meter, Inc.: Senior Vice
President Administration. Formerly,
Senior Vice President Administration
and Secretary; Senior Vice President
Administration/Human
Resources and Secretary; and Vice
President Administration/Human
Resources.
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2005 |
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Thomas J. Fischer.
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60 |
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Fischer Financial Consulting LLC (an
accounting and financial consulting
firm): Principal. Formerly, Arthur
Andersen LLP Milwaukee Office: Retired
Managing Partner.
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2003 |
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Richard A. Meeusen
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53 |
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Badger Meter, Inc.: Chairman, President
and Chief Executive Officer. Formerly,
President and Chief Executive Officer.
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2001 |
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THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT OUR SHAREHOLDERS VOTE FOR EACH NOMINEE IDENTIFIED ABOVE.
The directors who are not up for election this year, together with certain additional
information about each, are identified below:
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTINUING IN OFFICE
TERMS EXPIRING AT THE 2009 ANNUAL MEETING
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Name |
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Business Experience During Last Five Years |
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Director Since |
Ulice Payne, Jr.
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52 |
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Addison-Clifton LLC (an export consulting
firm): President. Formerly, Milwaukee
Brewers Baseball Club: President and
Chief Executive Officer. Formerly, Foley
& Lardner LLP (a law firm): Managing
Partner, Milwaukee Office.
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2000 |
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Andrew J. Policano.
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58 |
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Paul Merage School of Business,
University of California Irvine: Dean.
Formerly, University of Wisconsin: Professor and Dean of the School of
Business.
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1997 |
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Steven J. Smith.
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58 |
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Journal Communications, Inc. (a
diversified media and communications
company): Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer. Formerly, Journal
Communications, Inc.: President.
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2000 |
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MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTINUING IN OFFICE
TERMS EXPIRING AT THE 2010 ANNUAL MEETING
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Name |
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Business Experience During Last Five Years |
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Director Since |
Kenneth P. Manning
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66 |
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Sensient Technologies Corporation (an
international producer of flavors, colors
and inks): Chairman, President and Chief
Executive Officer.
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1996 |
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John J. Stollenwerk.
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68 |
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Allen-Edmonds Shoe Corporation (a
manufacturer and marketer of shoes): Chairman.
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1996 |
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Certain of our directors also serve as directors of the following companies, some of which are
publicly-held. Mr. Fischer is a director of Actuant Corporation, Regal-Beloit Corporation and
Wisconsin Energy Corporation. Mr. Manning is a director of Sensient Technologies Corporation and
Sealed Air Corporation. Mr. Meeusen is a director of Menasha Corporation and First Wisconsin Bank
and Trust. Mr. Payne is a director of Manpower Inc., The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance
Company and Wisconsin Energy Corporation. Mr. Policano is a director of Rockwell-Collins, Inc.
Mr. Smith is a director of Journal Communications, Inc. Mr. Stollenwerk is a director of
Allen-Edmonds Shoe Corporation, The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and Koss
Corporation.
Independence, Committees, Meetings and Attendance
Our Board of Directors has three standing committees: Audit and Compliance Committee,
Corporate Governance Committee and Employee Benefit Plans Committee. The Board of Directors has
adopted written charters for each committee, which are available on our website at
www.badgermeter.com under the selection Company Investors Corporate
Governance
Committees of the Board.
Our Board of Directors has affirmatively determined that all of the directors (other than Mr.
Meeusen and Mr. Dix) are independent as defined in the listing standards of the American Stock
Exchange. None of the independent directors had any transactions, relationships or arrangements
with the company that were not otherwise disclosed in this proxy statement, and were considered by
the Board in making the independence determination.
The current committee assignments are:
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BOARD COMMITTEE |
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Audit and |
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Corporate |
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Employee |
Director |
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Compliance |
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Governance |
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Benefit Plans |
Richard A. Meeusen |
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Richard H. Dix |
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Thomas J. Fischer
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X*
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X |
Kenneth P. Manning
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X
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X* |
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Ulice Payne, Jr.
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X
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X |
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Andrew J. Policano
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X
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Steven J. Smith
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X
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X* |
John J. Stollenwerk
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X
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X |
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*Chairman of the Committee |
The Audit and Compliance Committee (referred to as the Audit Committee) met five times in
2007. The Audit Committee oversees our financial reporting process on behalf of the Board of
Directors and reports the results of their activities to the Board. The activities of the Audit
Committee include employing an independent registered public accounting firm for us, discussing
with the independent registered public accounting firm and internal auditors the scope and results
of audits, monitoring our internal controls and preapproving and reviewing audit fees and other
services performed by our independent registered public accounting firm. The committee also
monitors our compliance with our policies governing activities which include but are not limited to
our code of conduct and its environmental, safety, diversity, product regulation and quality
processes. The Board of Directors has determined that each member of the committee qualifies as an
audit committee financial expert as defined by Securities and Exchange Commission rules.
The Corporate Governance Committee (referred to as the Governance Committee) met three times
in 2007 and once in February 2008. The Governance Committee reviews and establishes all forms of
compensation for our officers and directors and administers our compensation plans, including the
various stock plans. The committee also reviews the various management development and succession
programs and adopts and maintains our Principles of Corporate Governance. In addition, the
committee selects nominees for the Board of Directors.
The Employee Benefit Plans Committee met three times in 2007. The Employee Benefit Plans
Committee oversees the administration of our pension plan, employee savings and stock ownership
plan, health plans and other benefit plans.
The Board of Directors held five meetings in 2007. Mr. Stollenwerk currently serves as lead
outside director of the Board. The lead outside director chairs executive sessions of the Board of
Directors and, when necessary, represents the independent directors. During 2007, all directors
attended at least 75% of the meetings of the Board of Directors and meetings of the committees held
in 2007 on which they served during the period. All members of the Board of Directors attended the
2007 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. It is the Board of Directors policy that all directors
attend the Annual Meeting of Shareholders, unless unusual circumstances prevent such attendance.
Nomination of Directors
The Governance Committee has responsibility for selecting nominees for our Board of Directors.
All members of the Governance Committee meet the definition of independence set forth by the
American Stock Exchange. The Board of Directors has adopted a policy by which the Governance
Committee will consider nominees for Board positions, as follows:
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The Governance Committee will review potential new candidates for Board of
Directors positions. |
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The Governance Committee will review each candidates qualifications in
light of the needs of the Board of Directors and the company, considering the current
mix of director attributes and other pertinent factors. |
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The minimum qualifications required of any candidate include the highest
ethical standards and integrity, and sufficient experience and knowledge commensurate
with our needs. |
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The specific qualities and skills required of any candidate will vary
depending on our specific needs at any point in time. |
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No candidate, including current directors, may stand for reelection after
reaching the age of 72. |
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There are no differences in the manner in which the Governance Committee
evaluates candidates recommended by shareholders and candidates identified from other
sources. |
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To recommend a candidate, shareholders should write to the Board of
Directors, c/o Secretary, Badger Meter, Inc., P.O. Box 245036, Milwaukee, WI
53224-9536, via certified mail. Such recommendation should include the candidates
name and address, a brief biographical description and statement of qualifications of
the candidate and the candidates signed consent to be named in the proxy statement and
to serve as a director if elected. |
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To be considered by the Governance Committee for nomination and inclusion
in our proxy statement, the Board of Directors must receive shareholder recommendations
for director no later than October 15 of the year prior to the relevant Annual Meeting
of Shareholders. |
During 2007, and as of the date of this proxy statement, the Governance Committee did not pay
any fees to third parties to assist in identifying or evaluating potential candidates. Also, the
Governance Committee has not received any shareholder nominees for consideration at the 2008 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders.
Communications with the Board of Directors
If you want to communicate with members of the Board of Directors, you should write to the
Board of Directors, c/o Secretary, Badger Meter, Inc., P.O. Box 245036, Milwaukee, WI 53224-9536,
via certified mail. Our process for determining how and which communications will be relayed to
the Board of Directors has been approved by all of our independent directors.
Principles of Corporate Governance
Our Board of Directors has adopted the following Principles of Corporate Governance:
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A majority of the members of Board of Directors are independent directors. |
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All directors are selected on the basis of their ability to contribute to
positive corporate governance through their values, knowledge and skills. |
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The Board of Directors has established a committee of independent
directors who are responsible for nominating directors and assuring compliance with
these corporate governance principles (the Governance Committee). |
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The Board of Directors has established the Audit Committee, which is
composed entirely of independent directors who are responsible for overseeing the audit
functions and financial reporting compliance of the company. Members of the Audit
Committee have the skills, experience and financial expertise to fulfill this function. |
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The Board of Directors and committees have authority to directly hire
outside consultants as needed to properly fulfill their responsibilities. |
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The independent members of the Board of Directors hold regular executive
sessions without the presence of management or non-independent directors. |
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The Board of Directors has designated an independent director as the lead
outside director to chair executive sessions and, when necessary, represent the
independent directors. |
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The Board of Directors has reviewed and approved our Code of Business
Conduct. |
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The Board of Directors has created an environment to promote effective
corporate governance and to represent the interests of the shareholders in all matters. |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS
We had no transactions during 2007, and none are currently proposed, in which we were a
participant and in which any related person had a direct or indirect material interest. Our Board
of Directors has adopted policies and procedures regarding related person transactions. For
purposes of these policies and procedures:
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A related person means any of our directors, executive officers or nominees
for director or any of their immediate family members; and |
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A related person transaction generally is a transaction (including any
indebtedness or a guarantee of indebtedness) in which we were or are to be a
participant and the amount involved exceeds $120,000, and in which a related person had
or will have a direct or indirect material interest. |
Each of our executive officers, directors or nominees for director is required to disclose to
the Governance Committee certain information relating to related person transactions for review,
approval or ratification by the Governance Committee. Disclosure to the Governance Committee
should occur before, if possible, or as soon as practicable after the related person transaction is
effected, but in any event as soon as practicable after the executive officer, director or nominee
for director becomes aware of the related person transaction. The Governance Committees decision
whether or not to approve or ratify a related person transaction is to be made in light of the
Governance Committees determination that consummation of the transaction is not or was not
contrary to our best interests. Any related person transaction must be disclosed to the full Board
of Directors.
STOCK OWNERSHIP OF BENEFICIAL OWNERS HOLDING MORE THAN FIVE PERCENT
Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership of
Common Stock
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Aggregate Number of Shares and Percent of |
Name |
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Common Stock Beneficially Owned |
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AMVESCAP PLC
30 Finsbury Square
London EC2A 1AG
England
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1,398,827 (1)
9.6% |
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Marshall & Ilsley Corporation
770 North Water Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
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1,050,234 (2)
7.2% |
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T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.
100 East Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
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795,688 (3)
5.5 % |
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(1) |
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Information shown is based on a jointly filed Schedule 13G filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission by AMVESCAP PLC and PowerShares Capital Management, LLC. The Schedule
13G indicates that such parties have sole voting and dispositive power over all of such
shares. |
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(2) |
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Information shown is based on a jointly filed Schedule 13G filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission by Marshall & Ilsley Corporation, Marshall & Ilsley Trust Company N.A. and
M&I Investment Management Corp. The Schedule 13G indicates that Marshall & Ilsley
Corporation has sole voting power over 93,597 of such shares and sole dispositive power over
92,797 of such shares, and that it has shared voting power over 956,637 of such shares and
shared dispositive power over 957,437 of such shares. The Schedule 13G indicates |
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that Marshall & Ilsley Trust Company N.A. has sole voting power over 92,852 of such shares and
sole dispositive power over 92,052 of such shares, and that it has shared voting power over
956,637 of such shares and shared dispositive power over 957,437 of such shares. The Schedule
13G indicates that M&I Investment Management Corp. has sole voting power over 745 of such shares
and sole dispositive power over 745 of such shares, and that it has no shared voting or
dispositive power over any of such shares. |
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(3) |
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Information shown is based on a jointly filed Schedule 13G filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and T. Rowe Price Small-Cap Value Fund,
Inc. The Schedule 13G indicates that T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. has sole voting power
over 100,000 of such shares and sole dispositive power over all of such shares, and that it
has no shared voting or dispositive power over any of the shares. The Schedule 13G indicates
that T. Rowe Price Small-Cap Value Fund, Inc. has sole voting power over 90,000 of such
shares, and sole dispositive power over 795,688 of such shares and no shared voting or
dispositive power over any of the shares. |
STOCK OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth, as of February 29, 2008, the number of shares of common stock
beneficially owned and the number of exercisable options outstanding by (i) each of our directors,
(ii) each of the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table set forth below
(referred to as the named executive officers), and (iii) all of our directors and executive
officers as a group. Securities and Exchange Commission rules define beneficial owner of a
security to include any person who has or shares voting power or investment power with respect to
such security.
Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership of
Common Stock
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Aggregate |
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Number of Shares |
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and Percent of |
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Common Stock |
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Beneficially |
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Owned(1) |
Ronald H. Dix |
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217,961 |
(2) |
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1.5 |
% |
Thomas J. Fischer |
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48,866 |
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* |
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Kenneth P. Manning |
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60,066 |
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* |
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Richard A. Meeusen |
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201,847 |
(3) |
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1.4 |
% |
Ulice Payne, Jr. |
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17,666 |
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* |
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Andrew J. Policano |
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23,177 |
(4) |
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* |
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Steven J. Smith |
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50,866 |
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* |
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John J. Stollenwerk |
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78,443 |
(5) |
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* |
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Aggregate |
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Number of Shares |
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and Percent of |
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Common Stock |
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Beneficially |
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Owned(1) |
Horst E. Gras |
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29,360 |
(6) |
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* |
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Richard E. Johnson |
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135,425 |
(7) |
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* |
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Dennis J. Webb |
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75,364 |
(8) |
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* |
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All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group (16 |
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1,149,895 |
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persons, including those named above) |
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7.8 |
% |
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* |
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Less than one percent |
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Unless otherwise indicated, the beneficial owner has sole investment and voting power over
the reported shares, which include shares from stock options currently exercisable or
exercisable within 60 days of February 29, 2008. |
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(2) |
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Ronald H. Dix has sole investment power over 52,000 shares he holds directly,
92,600 shares he owns with his spouse, 13,141 shares in our Employee Savings and Stock
Ownership Plan, 52,720 shares subject to stock options which are currently exercisable or
exercisable within 60 days of February 29, 2008, and 7,500 shares of restricted stock. |
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(3) |
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Richard A. Meeusen has sole investment power over 110,264 shares he holds directly,
3,363 shares in our Employee Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, 77,320 shares subject to stock
options which are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of February 29, 2008,
and 10,900 shares of restricted stock. |
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(4) |
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Does not include deferred director fee holdings of 475 phantom stock units held by Mr.
Policano under the Badger Meter Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors. The value of the
phantom stock units is based upon and fluctuates with the market value of the common stock.
When a participant chooses to exit the plan, all compensation accrued is paid out only in
cash. |
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(5) |
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Does not include deferred director fee holdings of 19,416 phantom stock units held by Mr.
Stollenwerk under the Badger Meter Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors. The value of
the phantom stock units is based upon and fluctuates with the market value of the common
stock. When a participant chooses to exit the plan, all compensation accrued is paid out only
in cash. |
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(6) |
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Horst E. Gas has sole investment power over 18,520 shares he holds directly and 6,040 shares
subject to stock options which are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of
February 29, 2008, and 4,800 shares of restricted stock. |
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(7) |
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Richard E. Johnson has sole investment power over 28,000 shares he holds directly in an IRA,
66,192 shares he owns with his spouse, 1,613 shares in our Employee Savings and Stock
Ownership Plan, 31,720 shares subject to stock options which are currently exercisable or
exercisable within 60 days of February 29, 2008, and 7,900 shares of restricted stock. |
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(8) |
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Dennis J. Webb has sole investment power over 55,100 shares he holds directly, 13,731 shares
in our Employee Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, 600 shares subject to stock options which
are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of February 29, 2008, and 5,933 shares
of restricted stock. |
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Overview of Compensation Policies and Procedures
Our executive compensation program for all elected officers, including each named executive
officer, is administered by the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee is composed of four
independent non-employee directors Messrs. Manning (Chairman), Payne, Policano and Stollenwerk.
The compensation policies that guide the Governance Committee as it carries out its duties
include the following:
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Executive pay programs should be designed to attract and retain qualified
executive officers, as well as motivate and reward performance. |
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The payment of annual incentive compensation should be directly linked to
the attainment of performance goals approved by the Governance Committee. |
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Incentive programs should be designed to enhance shareholder value by
utilizing stock options, restricted stock and long-term cash incentives in order to
ensure that our executives are committed to our long-term success. |
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The Governance Committee should attempt to achieve a fair and competitive
compensation structure by implementing both short-term and long-term plans with fixed
and variable components. |
In making its decisions and recommendations regarding executive compensation, the Governance
Committee reviews, among other things:
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Compensation data obtained through an independent executive compensation
consulting firm for competitive businesses of similar size and similar business
activity. The data considered includes information relative to both base salary and
bonus data separately and on a combined basis, as well as total cash and long-term
incentive compensation. |
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Our financial performance as a whole and for various product lines
relative to the prior year, our budget and other meaningful financial data, such as
sales, return on assets, return on equity, cash generated from operations and financial
position. |
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The recommendations of the President and Chief Executive Officer with
regard to the other officers. |
Total Compensation
We strive to compensate our executives at competitive levels, with the opportunity to earn
above-median compensation for above-market performance, through programs that emphasize
performance-based incentive compensation in the form of annual cash payments, equity-based awards
and a long-term incentive program. To that end, total executive compensation is tied to our
performance and is structured to ensure that, due to the nature of our business, there is an
appropriate balance focused on our long-term versus short-term performance, and also a
balance between our financial performance, individual performance of our executive officers and the
creation of shareholder value. We believe that the total compensation paid or awarded to our named
executive officers during 2007 was consistent with our financial performance and the individual
performance of each of the named executive officers. Based on our analysis and the advice of our
independent executive compensation consultants, we also
believe that the compensation was reasonable in its totality and is consistent with our
compensation philosophies as described above. The consultant was paid a fixed fee for this
service.
To the extent that base salaries and equity grants vary by professional role in the market
place, as demonstrated by the competitive market data supplied by our independent executive
compensation consultants, the base salaries and equity grants of the named executive officers will
vary, sometimes significantly. For example, consistent with the level of responsibility and the
executive compensation practices of the companies in the market comparisons, Chief Executive
Officers typically earn significantly more in base salary and equity grants than other named
executive officers.
As noted above, our Chief Executive Officer serves in an advisory role to the Governance
Committee with respect to executive compensation for named executive officers other than himself
(the Chief Executive Officer does not participate in determining or recommending compensation for
himself or for the outside directors). His recommendations are given significant weight by the
Governance Committee, but the Governance Committee remains responsible for all decisions on
compensation levels for the named executive officers and on our executive compensation policies and
executive compensation programs. The executive compensation consultant does not make specific
recommendations on individual compensation amounts for the named executive officers or the outside
directors, nor does the consultant determine the amount or form of executive and director
compensation. All decisions on executive compensation levels and programs are made by the
Governance Committee.
Elements of Compensation
The compensation program for our executive officers involves base salaries, benefits,
short-term annual cash incentive bonuses and a long-term incentive program using stock options,
restricted stock and cash incentives.
Base Salary. Salary rates and benefit levels are established for each officer by the
Governance Committee, using data supplied by an independent executive compensation consulting firm
on organizations of similar size and business activity. The compensation data incorporates
privately-held as well as publicly-held companies of similar size, and has a broad definition of
similar business activity, thereby providing a more comprehensive basis for evaluating compensation
relative to those companies that compete with us for executives. The data includes salaries,
benefits, total cash compensation, long-term incentive compensation and total compensation. In
establishing the compensation of each officer, including the President and Chief Executive Officer,
the Governance Committee is given a five-year history, which sets forth the base salary, short-term
incentive awards, and long-term compensation of each officer. Our policy is to pay executives at
market, with appropriate adjustments for performance and levels of responsibility. The Governance
Committee has consistently applied this policy and procedure with respect to base salaries for the
past 17 years.
Base salary increases for our executive officers approved as of February 1, 2008, by the
Governance Committee ranged from 2.8% to 12.5% percent. The President and Chief Executive
Officers compensation increased 6.5% percent. The other named executive officers received base
salary increases of 5.2% each for Messrs. Johnson and Dix, 2.8% for Mr. Gras and 5.0% for Mr. Webb.
These increases were based on an evaluation of the factors set forth above relative to each
individuals circumstances and performance and are believed to be fair and competitive. The
Governance Committee believes that each of these individual increases is appropriate and necessary
to maintain competitive salary levels and to recognize the contribution of each named executive
officer to our financial success.
Annual Bonus Plan. Our annual bonus plan is designed to promote the maximization of
shareholder value over the long term. The plan is intended to provide a competitive level of
compensation when the executive officers achieve their performance objectives. Under the annual
bonus plan, the target bonus is 60% of the President and Chief Executive Officers base salary and
35% 55% of the base salary for all other named executive officers. The targets set pursuant to
the bonus plan are comprised of two components a financial factor based on the attainment of a
certain level of earnings before interest and taxes and individual performance.
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The Governance Committee approves the target level of earnings used for
the financial component of the determination of an executives bonus at the beginning
of each year. For 2007, the financial |
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factor was based on achieving an increase in adjusted Earnings Before Interest and
Taxes (EBIT) of 24.6% over the 2006 adjusted EBIT, at which point the maximum bonus
could be paid. No bonus was to be paid if 2007 adjusted EBIT did not increase over
the 2006 adjusted EBIT, and the bonus was to be pro-rated for any increase up to
24.6%. The Governance Committee has the discretion to adjust these EBIT factors
based on unusual events, such as acquisitions or losses on discontinued operations.
For 2007, the Governance Committee decided that the results of discontinued
operations would not be included in the 2007 EBIT calculation for the executive
officers. The Governance Committee believes that such an adjustment was appropriate
for the executive officers in light of their overall contribution to our positive
performance in 2007 and the fact that the discontinued operations was an unusual
event. Bonuses paid for 2007 were approximately 66% of target bonus amounts. |
The target bonus may also be adjusted up or down 10 percent at the discretion of the
Governance Committee. Further, the Governance Committee has the authority to adjust the total
amount of any yearly bonus award on a discretionary basis. Several increase adjustments were made
for 2007 within these guidelines.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (referred to as LTIP). Our long-term incentive compensation program
consists of a combination of stock option awards, restricted stock awards and cash incentives.
This program presents an opportunity for officers and other key employees to gain or increase their
equity interests in our stock. Each executive officer is expected to hold common stock equal to at
least two-times his or her annual base salary. Although no formal deadline has been established,
new officers are generally expected to achieve this level of stock ownership within a reasonable
time, but in any event, within six years of joining us. Each named executive officer has achieved
the targeted level of stock ownership.
Stock options and restricted stock awards are granted annually to the officers and other key
employees at amounts determined each year by the Governance Committee. All of the stock options
and restricted stock awards are granted at the market price on the date of grant. Since 2003, the
Governance Committee has granted all such annual awards on the first Friday of May in each year,
and has priced all such awards at the closing price of the common stock on that date. The
Governance Committee has established that date to avoid any inference of timing such awards to the
release of material non-public information. If material non-public information is pending on the
first Friday of May in any year, then the Governance Committee will select a new date for awarding
stock options and restricted stock for that year.
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In addition to stock options and restricted stock awards, our LTIP
provides a cash bonus to all officers, including the named executive officers. The
current LTIP is based on a three-year performance period (2006-2008), and provides for
the payment of a cash bonus in May of 2009 if certain diluted earnings per share
targets for the combined three year period are met. For the 2006-2008 period, no
incentive will be paid if the combined diluted earnings per share is below $3.415, and
the full incentive will be paid if the combined diluted earnings per share reaches or
exceeds $3.795. The incentive payment will be prorated for any earnings per share
amount between these targets. The Governance Committee may, at its discretion, adjust
these targets or the achieved earnings per share for unusual factors, such as
acquisitions or losses on discontinued operations. For 2006 and 2007, the Governance
Committee has determined that certain write-downs and charges in connection with the
liquidation of a French subsidiary will not be included in the final incentive
calculation. Additionally, all earnings per share amounts in this discussion have been
adjusted for the June 15, 2006 two-for-one stock split. |
Other Benefits
Salary Deferral Plan. All executive officers, except Mr. Gras, are eligible to participate in
a salary deferral plan described in Note 1 of the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Table below.
The Governance Committee believes that it is appropriate to offer this program to enable the
officers to better manage their taxable income and retirement planning. Based on its analysis and
the advice of our independent executive compensation consultants, the Governance Committee believes
that this program is competitive with comparable programs offered by other companies.
Supplemental Retirement Plans. We offer various supplemental retirement plans to certain
employees, including certain named executive officers. The purpose of these plans is to
compensate the employees for pension reductions caused by salary deferrals or by regulatory
limitations on qualified plans. Also, there are nonqualified supplemental executive retirement
plans for Messrs. Meeusen, Dix and Johnson, which are designed to enhance their regular
retirement programs. The Governance Committee believes that these supplemental retirement plans
are appropriate to attract and retain qualified executives. For more information on these plans,
see the narrative discussion that follows the Pension Benefits Table below.
Additional benefits. Each executive officer receives the use of a vehicle (or a car allowance)
for both personal and business purposes. We also pay certain club dues for Mr. Meeusen and
long-term disability benefits and tax gross-ups on life insurance benefits for Messrs. Meeusen, Dix
and Johnson. All executive officers, except Mr. Gras, participate in the Badger Meter, Inc.
Employee Savings and Stock Ownership Plan and other benefit and pension plans provided to all U.S.
employees.
Section 162(m) Limitations. It is anticipated that all 2007 compensation to executive
officers will be fully deductible under Section 162(m) of the Code and therefore the Governance
Committee determined that a policy with respect to qualifying compensation paid to certain
executive officers for deductibility is not necessary.
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control
We have entered into Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreements (each referred to as a
KEESA) with all executive officers (except Mr. Gras), whose expertise has been critical to our
success, to remain with us in the event of any merger or transition period. Each KEESA provides
for payments in the event there is a change in control and (1) the named executive officers
employment with us terminates (whether by us, the named executive officer or otherwise) within 180
days prior to the change in control and (2) it is reasonably demonstrated by the named executive
officer that (A) any such termination of employment by us (i) was at the request of a third party
who has taken steps reasonably calculated to effect a change in control or (ii) otherwise arose in
connection with or in anticipation of a change in control, or (B) any such termination of
employment by the named executive officer took place because of an event that allowed the
termination for good reason, which event (i) occurred at the request of a third party who has taken
steps reasonably calculated to effect a change in control or (ii) otherwise arose in connection
with or in anticipation of a change in control. For more information regarding the KEESAs, see
the discussion in Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control below.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table sets forth for each of the named executive officers: (1) the dollar value
of base salary and bonus earned during each of the two years ended December 31, 2006 and December
31, 2007; (2) the dollar value of the compensation cost of all stock and option awards recognized
over the requisite service period, computed in accordance with FAS 123R; (3) the dollar value of
earnings for services pursuant to awards granted during the year under non-equity incentive plans;
(4) the change in pension value and non-qualified deferred compensation earnings during the year;
(5) all other compensation for the year; and (6) the dollar value of total compensation for the
year. The named executive officers are our principal executive officer, principal financial
officer, and each of our three other most highly compensated executive officers as of December 31,
2007 (each of whose total cash compensation exceeded $100,000 for fiscal year 2007).
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Summary Compensation Table (all amounts in $) |
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Change in Pension |
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Value and |
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Non-Equity |
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Non-Qualified |
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Incentive Plan |
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Deferred |
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All Other |
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Bonus |
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Stock Awards |
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Option Awards |
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Compensation |
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Compensation |
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Compensation |
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Name & Principal Position |
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Year |
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Salary |
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(1) |
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(2) |
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(3) |
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(4) |
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(5) |
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(6) |
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Total |
Richard A. Meeusen
Chairman, President &
CEO |
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2007 |
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411,858 |
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180,062 |
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94,179 |
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39,463 |
|
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53,333 |
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|
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83,772 |
|
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14,563 |
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|
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877,231 |
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2006 |
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|
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375,802 |
|
|
|
153,101 |
|
|
|
59,506 |
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42,506 |
|
|
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53,333 |
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76,650 |
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15,007 |
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775,905 |
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Richard E. Johnson
Sr. Vice President
Finance, CFO and
Treasurer |
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2007 |
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251,000 |
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|
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100,227 |
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|
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70,258 |
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|
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26,483 |
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|
|
44,444 |
|
|
|
47,522 |
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|
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13,747 |
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|
|
553,681 |
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2006 |
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|
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239,053 |
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|
|
89,272 |
|
|
|
45,459 |
|
|
|
29,638 |
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|
|
44,444 |
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44,173 |
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14,156 |
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506,195 |
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Ronald H. Dix Sr.
Vice President
Administration |
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2007 |
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251,000 |
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100,227 |
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70,258 |
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26,483 |
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44,444 |
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|
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203,504 |
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16,940 |
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712,856 |
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2006 |
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239,053 |
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|
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89,272 |
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|
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45,459 |
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29,477 |
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44,444 |
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195,676 |
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15,318 |
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658,699 |
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Horst E. Gras Vice
President, International
Operations |
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2007 |
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288,228 |
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100,288 |
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43,051 |
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13,019 |
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35,556 |
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57,415 |
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13,742 |
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551,299 |
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2006 |
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280,957 |
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|
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0 |
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29,666 |
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17,540 |
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|
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35,556 |
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61,035 |
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11,287 |
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436,041 |
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Dennis J. Webb Vice
President Sales &
Marketing |
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2007 |
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220,083 |
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79,907 |
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55,735 |
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20,488 |
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|
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35,556 |
|
|
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47,441 |
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14,234 |
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473,444 |
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2006 |
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209,062 |
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71,012 |
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36,646 |
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23,289 |
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35,556 |
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45,781 |
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14,109 |
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435,455 |
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(1) |
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Bonus amounts represent bonuses earned during 2007 that were paid in February of 2008
under the bonus program described above in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis. |
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(2) |
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These amounts reflect the dollar value of the compensation cost of all outstanding stock
awards recognized over the requisite service period, computed in accordance with FAS 123 and
FAS 123R. The assumptions made in valuing the stock awards are included under the caption
Stock-Based Compensation Plans in Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in
the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K and such information is incorporated herein by reference. |
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(3) |
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These amounts reflect the dollar value of the compensation cost of all outstanding option
awards recognized over the requisite service period, computed in accordance with FAS 123 and
FAS 123R. The assumptions made in valuing the option awards are included under the caption
Stock-Based Compensation Plans in Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in
the 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K and such information is incorporated herein by reference. |
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(4) |
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Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation represents the current year earnings under our LTIP,
as previously described. The plan has a total target for the three-year period. These
amounts represent one-third of the total payment, assuming achievement of the three-year
earnings per share target. |
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(5) |
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Change in Pension Value and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation includes the 2007 aggregate
increase in the actuarial present value of each named executive officers accumulated benefit
under our defined benefit pension plans and supplemental pension plans, using the same
assumptions and measurements dates used for financial reporting purposes with respect to our
audited financial statements. The increases were $83,772 for Mr. Meeusen, $46,942 for Mr.
Johnson, $203,200 for Mr. Dix and $46,282 for Mr. Webb. Also, the amounts include $580 for Mr.
Johnson, $304 for Mr. Dix and $1,159 for Mr. Webb, representing earnings on deferred
compensation in excess of 120% of applicable federal long-term rates. |
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Mr. Gras, a German resident and citizen, is not covered by the defined benefit pension plan. The
Company, through its European subsidiary, provides Mr. Gras with an insurance policy that provides
benefits similar to those of the other named executives covered by the cash balance plan. The
amount shown for Mr. Gras represents the translated value of the increase in policy value in 2007. |
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(6) |
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All Other Compensation includes the following items: |
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a. |
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Contributions to the Badger Meter, Inc. Employee Savings and Stock Ownership
Plan (ESSOP) for Messrs. Meeusen, Johnson, Dix, Webb and Zandron of $3,875 each. Mr.
Gras does not participate in the ESSOP. |
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b. |
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Dividends on restricted stock of $2,233 for Mr. Meeusen, $1,687 for Mr.
Johnson, $1,687 for Mr. Dix, $1,124 for Mr. Gras and $1,359 for Mr. Webb. |
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c. |
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Vehicle usage or allowance of $4,386 for Mr. Meeusen, $7,045 for Mr. Johnson,
$8,702 for Mr. Dix, $12,618 for Mr. Gras and $9,000 for Mr. Webb. |
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d. |
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Long-term disability benefits for Messrs. Meeusen, Johnson and Dix of $676
each. |
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e. |
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Tax gross-up on life insurance benefits for Messrs. Meeusen, Johnson and Dix of
$792, $464 and $1,250, respectively. |
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f. |
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Club dues for Mr. Meeusen of $2,602. |
Grants of Plan-Based Awards
The following table sets forth information regarding all incentive plan awards that were
granted to the named executive officers during 2007, including incentive plan awards (equity-based
and non-equity based) and other plan-based awards. Disclosure on a separate line item is provided
for each grant of an award made to a named executive officer during the year. Non-equity
incentive plan awards are awards that are not subject to FAS 123(R) and are intended to serve as an
incentive for performance to occur over a specified period. There are no equity incentive-based
awards, which are equity awards subject to a performance condition or a market condition as those
terms are defined by FAS 123(R).
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Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2007 |
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All Other Option |
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Estimated Future Payouts Under |
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All Other Stock |
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Awards: Number of |
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Grant Date Fair |
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Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards (1) |
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Awards: Number of |
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Securities |
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Exercise Price of |
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Value of Stock and |
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Threshold |
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Target |
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Maximum |
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Restricted Shares |
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Underlying Options |
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Option Awards |
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Option Awards |
Name |
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Grant Date |
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($) |
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($) |
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($) |
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(#) |
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(#) |
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($/share) |
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($) |
Richard A. Meeusen |
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0 |
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160,000 |
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160,000 |
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May 4, 2007 |
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2,100 |
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$ |
52,374 |
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May 4, 2007 |
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6,300 |
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24.94 |
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$ |
157,122 |
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Richard E. Johnson |
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0 |
|
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133,333 |
|
|
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133,333 |
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May 4, 2007 |
|
|
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1,200 |
|
|
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|
|
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$ |
29,928 |
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May 4, 2007 |
|
|
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|
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|
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|
|
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3,600 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
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$ |
89,784 |
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Ronald H. Dix |
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|
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0 |
|
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|
133,333 |
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|
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133,333 |
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May 4, 2007 |
|
|
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|
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800 |
|
|
|
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$ |
19,952 |
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May 4, 2007 |
|
|
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3,600 |
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24.94 |
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$ |
89,784 |
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Horst E. Gras |
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|
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|
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0 |
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106,667 |
|
|
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106,667 |
|
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May 4, 2007 |
|
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400 |
|
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$ |
9,976 |
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May 4, 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
$ |
29,928 |
|
Dennis J. Webb |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
106,667 |
|
|
|
106,667 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
May 4, 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
533 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
13,293 |
|
|
|
May 4, 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,400 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
$ |
59,856 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Estimated Future Payout Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards relates to the LTIP
described under
the Compensation Discussion and Analysis. |
Stock Awards represent the fair value of restricted stock awards granted to each named
executive officer on May 4, 2007 under the 2005 Restricted Stock Grant Plan and valued as of the
closing price of the common stock on that date ($24.94 per share). The restricted shares vest 100%
after three years from the date of grant. Dividends on the restricted shares are accrued during
the vesting period and paid to the recipient upon full vesting of the shares.
Option Awards represent the fair value of stock options granted to each named executive
officer on May 4, 2007. The assumptions made in valuing the option awards are included under the
caption Stock-Based Compensation Plans in Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in
the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K and such information in incorporated herein by reference.
Similar to Stock Awards, all options were granted on May 4, 2007, with an exercise price set at the
closing price of the common stock on that date ($24.94 per share). All option awards vest over
five years. The fair value of $7.36 per option was computed under the Black-Scholes option pricing
model, using the following assumptions: risk-free interest rate of 4.56%; dividend yield of 1.28%;
expected market price volatility factor of 36%, and a weighted average expected life of 3.5 years.
All unvested awards, except those granted in 2005, are forfeited on retirement or termination of
employment for cause or otherwise. The awards are not subject to any performance-based or other
material conditions.
Outstanding Equity Awards At Year-End
The following table sets forth information on outstanding option and stock awards held by the
named executive officers at December 31, 2007, including the number of shares underlying both
exercisable and unexercisable portions of each stock option as well as the exercise price and
expiration date of each outstanding option.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding Equity Awards As Of December 31, 2007 |
|
|
Option Awards (1) |
|
Stock Awards (1) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities |
|
Underlying |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Market Value of |
|
|
Underlying |
|
Unexercised Options |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Shares of |
|
Shares of Stock |
|
|
Unexercised Options |
|
(#) Unexercisable |
|
Option Exercise |
|
Option Expiration |
|
Stock That Have Not |
|
That Have Not |
Name |
|
(#) Exercisable |
|
(2) |
|
Price ($) |
|
Date |
|
Vested (#) (2) |
|
Vested ($) |
Richard A. Meeusen |
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5.75 |
|
|
Jan. 29, 2012 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
33,600 |
|
|
|
10,000 |
|
|
|
7.00 |
|
|
May 2, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,640 |
|
|
|
3,960 |
|
|
|
18.33 |
|
|
May 9, 2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,080 |
|
|
|
4,320 |
|
|
|
31.41 |
|
|
May 5, 2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
6,300 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
May 5, 2017 |
|
|
10,900 |
|
|
|
489,955 |
|
Richard E. Johnson |
|
|
10,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5.75 |
|
|
Jan. 29, 2012 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19,200 |
|
|
|
9,800 |
|
|
|
7.00 |
|
|
May 2, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,800 |
|
|
|
2,700 |
|
|
|
18.33 |
|
|
May 9, 2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
720 |
|
|
|
2,880 |
|
|
|
31.41 |
|
|
May 5, 2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
3,600 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
May 4, 2017 |
|
|
7,900 |
|
|
|
355,105 |
|
Ronald H. Dix |
|
|
14,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
10.06 |
|
|
July 16, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
20,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
7.13 |
|
|
May 18, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
16,200 |
|
|
|
9,800 |
|
|
|
7.00 |
|
|
May 2, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,800 |
|
|
|
2,700 |
|
|
|
18.33 |
|
|
May 9, 2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
720 |
|
|
|
2,880 |
|
|
|
31.41 |
|
|
May 5, 2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
3.600 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
May 4, 2017 |
|
|
7,500 |
|
|
|
337,125 |
|
Horst E. Gras |
|
|
4,600 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
10.06 |
|
|
July 16, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
7,600 |
|
|
|
7.00 |
|
|
May 2, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,440 |
|
|
|
2,160 |
|
|
|
18.33 |
|
|
May 9, 2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
May 4, 2017 |
|
|
4,800 |
|
|
|
215,760 |
|
Dennis J. Webb |
|
|
600 |
|
|
|
2,400 |
|
|
|
31.41 |
|
|
May 5, 2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
2,400 |
|
|
|
24.94 |
|
|
May 4, 2017 |
|
|
5,933 |
|
|
|
266,688 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
There were no stock or option awards outstanding for any of the named executive
officers as of December 31, 2007 that were related to equity incentive programs,
the realization of which would depend on specific financial or performance
outcomes. |
|
|
|
(2) |
|
Restricted stock awards generally vest 100% after three years from date
of grant. A portion of the stock options with an expiration date of May 2, 2013,
vest at a rate of 25% per year, starting May 2, 2006, with full vesting on May 2,
2009. The exercisable and unexercisable portion of those options, respectively,
are 6,400 and 3,200 for Mr. Meeusen, 4,000 and 5,000 for Mr. Dix, 0 and 5,000 for
Mr. Johnson, 0 and 3,600 for Mr. Gras, and 0 and 3,600 for Mr. Webb. All other
stock options vest as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expiration Date |
|
Grant Date |
|
Vesting Term |
|
Full Vesting |
July 16, 2009
|
|
July 16, 1999
|
|
20% per year
|
|
July 16, 2004 |
May 18, 2011
|
|
May 18, 2001
|
|
20% per year
|
|
May 18, 2006 |
Jan. 29, 2012
|
|
Jan. 29, 2002
|
|
20% per year
|
|
Jan. 29, 2007 |
May 2, 2013
|
|
May 2, 2003
|
|
20% per year
|
|
May 2, 2008 |
May 9, 2015
|
|
May 9, 2005
|
|
20% per year
|
|
May 9, 2010 |
May 5, 2016
|
|
May 5, 2006
|
|
20% per year
|
|
May 5, 2011 |
May 4, 2017
|
|
May 4, 2007
|
|
20% per year
|
|
May 4, 2012 |
Option Exercises and Stock Vested
The following table sets forth information relating to the number of stock options exercised
during the last fiscal year for each of the named executive officers on an aggregate basis. No
stock awards vested in 2007.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 OPTION EXERCISES |
|
|
Number of Shares |
|
Value Realized on |
|
|
Acquired on Exercise (#) |
|
Exercise ($) |
Richard A. Meeusen |
|
|
13,200 |
|
|
$ |
433,983 |
|
Richard E. Johnson |
|
|
18,200 |
|
|
$ |
495,093 |
|
Ronald H. Dix |
|
|
16,500 |
|
|
$ |
422,748 |
|
Horst E. Gras |
|
|
12,000 |
|
|
$ |
329,140 |
|
Dennis J. Webb |
|
|
11,920 |
|
|
$ |
262,468 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
For further details regarding options and restricted stock, see the description of
the LTIP in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis. |
Pension Benefits
The following table sets forth the actuarial present value of each named executive officers
accumulated benefit under each defined benefit plan, assuming benefits are paid at normal
retirement age based on current levels of compensation. Except for Mr. Gras, the valuation method
and all material assumptions applied in quantifying the present value of the current accumulated
benefit for each of the named executive officers are included under the caption Pension Plans in
Note 7 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K, and
such information is incorporated herein by reference. The table also shows the number of years of
credited service under each such plan, computed as of the same pension plan measurement date used
in the companys audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2007. The table also
reports any pension benefits paid to each named executive officer during the year.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pension Benefits As Of December 31, 2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Present Value of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Years |
|
Accumulated Benefit |
|
Payments During |
Name |
|
Plan Name |
|
Credited Service |
|
($) |
|
2007 ($) |
Richard A. Meeusen |
|
Qualified Pension Plan |
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
159,447 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Supplemental Retirement Plan |
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
136,667 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Executive Supplemental Plan |
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
91,580 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
Richard E. Johnson |
|
Qualified Pension Plan |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
83,292 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Supplemental Retirement Plan |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
35,605 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Executive Supplemental Plan |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
57,244 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
Ronald H. Dix |
|
Qualified Pension Plan |
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
786,036 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Supplemental Retirement Plan |
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
480,177 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Executive Supplemental Plan |
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
329,383 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
Horst E. Gras |
|
Value of Insurance Policy (translated from Euros) |
|
|
15 |
|
|
|
360,321 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dennis J. Webb |
|
Qualified Pension Plan |
|
|
23 |
|
|
|
303,275 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-qualified Unfunded Supplemental Retirement Plan |
|
|
23 |
|
|
|
41,577 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
Qualified Pension Plan
We maintain a defined benefit pension plan covering all domestic salaried employees, including
each named executive officer except Mr. Gras. Mr. Gras, a German resident and citizen, is not
covered by the defined benefit pension plan. Through our European subsidiary, we provide Mr. Gras
with an insurance policy that provides benefits similar to those of the other named executives
covered by the cash balance plan.
Prior to 1997, the pension plan was a traditional defined benefit plan with benefits based on
a final average pay formula. In 1997, the pension plan was modified to become a cash balance
plan. Mr. Dix, because of his age and service, has the choice of receiving a cash balance or
obtaining retirement benefits according to the prior pension plans final average pay formula,
which has been retained under the modified pension plan as a minimum benefit for employees who had
attained age 50 and completed 10 or more years of service as of December 31, 1996. The other named
domestic executive officers are not eligible to participate in the prior pension plan and therefore
all participate in the cash balance plan.
All prior pension plan participants, including Mr. Dix, are eligible for normal retirement
at age 65 and for early retirement at age 55 with ten or more years of service. Mr. Dix is
currently eligible for early retirement. The other named domestic executive officers participate
in the cash balance plan, under which benefits are not affected by age or years of service.
Under the cash balance plan, Messrs. Meeusen, Johnson and Webb each have an account balance
which is credited each year with dollar amounts equal to 5% of compensation, plus 2% of
compensation in excess of the Social Security wage base and certain transitional benefits based on
years of service at the time of the pension plan conversion. Interest is credited to the account
balance each year at a rate of interest based upon 30-year U.S. Treasury securities.
Mr. Dixs pension benefits will be computed under the prior pension plan formula. The monthly
pension at normal retirement (age 65) under this formula is equal to (i) the sum of (A) nine-tenths
percent (0.9%) of the participants average monthly compensation (based on the highest 60 months of
the last 120 months compensation) multiplied by the participants years of service, not to exceed
30, and (B) six-tenths percent (0.6%) of the
participants average monthly compensation in excess of covered compensation, (ii) multiplied
by the participants years of service, not to exceed 30.
Non-Qualified Unfunded Supplemental Retirement Plan
Since benefits under our pension program are based on taxable earnings, any deferral of salary
or bonus can result in a reduction of pension benefits. To correct for this reduction,
participants in the salary deferral program also participate in a nonqualified unfunded
supplemental retirement benefit plan designed to compensate for reduced pension benefits caused by
the deferral of salary. Benefits under this plan represent the difference between normal pension
benefits that the officer would have earned if no salary had been deferred, and the reduced benefit
level due to the salary deferral.
Internal Revenue Service regulations limit the amount of compensation to be considered in
qualified pension benefit calculations to $225,000 in 2007, and varying amounts for prior years.
Any employee, including any named executive officer, whose compensation is in excess of the
Internal Revenue Service limits also participates in the nonqualified unfunded supplemental
retirement plan. Benefits from this plan are calculated to provide the participant the same
pension benefits as if there were no compensation limit. These benefits are included in the table
above.
Non-Qualified Unfunded Executive Supplemental Plans
Messrs. Meeusen and Johnson participate in an unfunded nonqualified supplemental executive
retirement plan. This is a defined contribution plan, under which we contribute annually 7.5% of
each participants annual salary. Participants may elect a lump-sum payout or annual installments
up to ten years. Interest is credited monthly on the beginning of the year balance at the prime
rate of interest.
Mr. Dix participates in an unfunded nonqualified executive supplemental retirement plan. This
is a defined benefit plan, which provides for the payment of 20% of his final monthly salary for
120 months after retirement.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
The following table sets forth annual executive and company contributions under
non-qualified defined contribution and other deferred compensation plans, as well each named
executive officers withdrawals, earnings and fiscal-year end balances in those plans.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 2007 ($) |
|
|
Executive |
|
Company |
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate |
|
Aggregate Balance |
|
|
Contributions in |
|
Contributions in |
|
Aggregate Earnings |
|
Withdrawals/ |
|
at December 31, |
Name |
|
2007 (1)(2) |
|
2007 |
|
in 2007 (2) |
|
Distributions |
|
2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Richard E. Johnson |
|
|
25,100 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,192 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
108,432 |
|
Ronald H. Dix |
|
|
43,398 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,683 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
66,510 |
|
Dennis J. Webb |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10,518 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
186,652 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
All executive officers, except Mr. Gras, are permitted to participate in a
Salary Deferral Plan. Under this plan, officers may elect to defer up to 50% of their
annual base salary and up to 100% of their annual bonuses. Participants may elect to
defer payment for a specified period of time or until retirement or separation from
service. Participants may also elect a lump-sum payout or annual installments up to
ten years. Interest is credited quarterly on the deferred balances at an annual
interest rate equal to the sum of the five-year U.S. Treasury constant maturities rate
of interest plus one and one-half percent. Mr. Meeusen does not participate in the
plan. |
|
|
|
(2) |
|
All executive contributions shown in the above table are also included
in the Summary Compensation Table as part of salary or bonus, along with the portion
of the 2007 earnings shown in the above table that are considered above-market (as
quantified in Note 5 to the Summary Compensation Table). |
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control
We have entered into Key Executive Employment and Severance Agreements (each referred to as a
KEESA) with all executive officers (except Mr. Gras), whose expertise has been critical to our
success, to remain with us in the event of any merger or transition period. Each KEESA provides
for payments in the event there is a change in control and (1) the named executive officers
employment with us terminates (whether by us, the named executive officer or otherwise) within 180
days prior to the change in control and (2) it is reasonably demonstrated by the named executive
officer that (A) any such termination of employment by us (i) was at the request of a third party
who has taken steps reasonably calculated to effect a change in control or (ii) otherwise arose in
connection with or in anticipation of a change in control, or (B) any such termination of
employment by the named executive officer took place because of an event that allowed the
termination for good reason, which event (i) occurred at the request of a third party who has taken
steps reasonably calculated to effect a change in control or (ii) otherwise arose in connection
with or in anticipation of a change in control.
There are two forms of the KEESA. The KEESA for the Chairman, President and Chief Executive
Officer provides for payment of salary and annual incentive compensation for three years, as well
as the actuarial equivalent of the additional retirement benefits the executive officer would have
earned had he remained employed for three more years, continued medical, dental, and life insurance
coverage for three years, outplacement services and financial planning counseling. The KEESA for
all other named executive officers provides for payment of two years salary and annual incentive
compensation, along with two years coverage pursuant to the other benefits set forth above. Any
named executive officer who receives compensation under the KEESA is restricted from engaging in
competitive activity for a period of six months after termination and is required to maintain
appropriate confidentiality relative to all company information.
For purposes of each KEESA a change in control is deemed to have occurred if (1) any person
(other than the company or any of its subsidiaries, a trustee or other fiduciary holding securities
under any employee benefit plan of the company or any of its subsidiaries, an underwriter
temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities or a corporation owned,
directly or indirectly, by our shareholders in substantially the same proportions as their
ownership of stock in the company) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of
15% or more of our voting securities; or (2) the following individuals cease for any reason to
constitute a majority of the number of directors then serving: individuals who, on July 31, 1999,
constituted the Board of Directors and any new director whose appointment or election by the Board
of Directors or nomination for election by our shareholders was approved by a vote of at least
two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors on July 31, 1999 or
whose appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so approved; or (3) our
shareholders approve a merger, consolidation or share exchange of the company with any other
corporation or approve the issuance of our voting securities in connection with a merger,
consolidation or share exchange of the company, with limited exceptions; or (4) our shareholders
approve a plan of complete liquidation or dissolution of the company or an agreement for the sale
or disposition by us of all or substantially all of our assets (in one transaction or a series of
related transactions within any period of 24 consecutive months), other than a sale or disposition
by us of all or substantially all of our assets to an entity at least 75% of the combined voting
power of the voting securities of which are owned by persons in substantially the same proportions
as their ownership of the company immediately prior to such sale.
For purposes of each KEESA good reason means that the named executive officer has determined
in good faith that any of the following events has occurred: (1) any breach of the KEESA by us
other than an isolated, insubstantial and inadvertent failure not occurring in bad faith that we
promptly remedy; (2) any reduction in the named executive officers base salary, percentage of base
salary available as incentive compensation or bonus opportunity or benefits, in each case relative
to those most favorable to the named executive officer in effect at any time during the 180-day
period prior to the change in control or, to the extent more favorable to the named executive
officer, those in effect after the change in control; (3) a material adverse change, without the
named executive officers prior written consent, in the named executive officers working
conditions or status with us from such
working conditions or status in effect during the 180-day period prior to the change in
control or, to the extent more favorable to the named executive officer, those in effect after the
change in control; (4) the relocation of the named executive officers principal place of
employment to a location more than 35 miles from the named executive officers principal place of
employment on the date 180 days prior to the change in control; (5) we require the named executive
officer to travel on business to a materially greater extent than was required during the 180-day
period prior to the change in control; (6) we terminate the named executive officers employment
after a change in control without delivering the required notice, in specified circumstances.
The following table describes the potential payments upon termination or a change of control.
This table assumes the named executive officers employment was terminated on December 28, 2007,
the last business day of our prior fiscal year. While Mr. Gras does not have a KEESA, German law
would provide him with similar benefits, which are translated at the year end exchange rate.
KEESA Benefits if Exercised At December 31, 2007 ($)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Medical |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salary and |
|
Retirement |
|
Dental |
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
Bonus |
|
Benefits |
|
Life |
|
Other |
|
Total |
Richard A. Meeusen |
|
|
1,992,000 |
|
|
|
71,001 |
|
|
|
55,177 |
|
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
2,136,278 |
|
Richard E. Johnson |
|
|
781,200 |
|
|
|
28,304 |
|
|
|
34,790 |
|
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
861,361 |
|
Ronald H. Dix |
|
|
781,200 |
|
|
|
98,881 |
|
|
|
34,790 |
|
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
925,938 |
|
Horst E. Gras |
|
|
974,330 |
|
|
|
131,131 |
|
|
|
34,790 |
|
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
1,155,251 |
|
Dennis J. Webb |
|
|
663,000 |
|
|
|
24,359 |
|
|
|
34,415 |
|
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
736,774 |
|
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The Governance Committee has reviewed and discussed the above Compensation Discussion and
Analysis with management and, based on such review and discussion, has recommended to the Board of
Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this proxy statement and in
our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate Governance Committee
Kenneth P. Manning, Chairman
Ulice Payne, Jr.
Andrew J. Policano
John J. Stollenwerk
|
|
|
Director Compensation
Compensation Philosophy and Role of the Committee
Our compensation policies for directors are designed to attract and retain the most qualified
individuals to serve on the Board of Directors in the industry in which we operate. We believe
that director compensation packages are comparable relative to the competitive market. Director
compensation is determined by the Governance Committee with approval by the full Board of
Directors.
Recommendations regarding outside director compensation are made by the Governance Committee.
The compensation consultant provides the Governance Committee with a competitive compensation
analysis of outside director compensation programs relative to our industry for use in their
decision-making. Although the compensation consultant provides market data for consideration by
the Governance Committee in setting director compensation levels and programs, the compensation
consultant does not make specific recommendations on individual compensation amounts for the
directors, nor does the consultant determine the amount or form of director compensation. All
decisions on director compensation levels and programs are made by the full Board of Directors
based on the recommendation provided by the Governance Committee.
Director Compensation Table and Components of Director Compensation
The following table summarizes the director compensation for 2007 for all of our non-employee
directors. Messrs. Meeusen and Dix do not receive any additional compensation for their services
as directors beyond the amounts previously disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table.
Director Compensation for 2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fees Earned or Paid |
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
in Cash ($) |
|
Stock Awards ($) (1) |
|
Total ($) |
Thomas J. Fischer |
|
|
42,500 |
|
|
|
39,984 |
|
|
|
82,484 |
|
Kenneth P. Manning |
|
|
40,500 |
|
|
|
39,984 |
|
|
|
80,484 |
|
Ulice Payne, Jr. |
|
|
38,500 |
|
|
|
39,984 |
|
|
|
78,484 |
|
Andrew J. Policano |
|
|
36,500 |
|
|
|
39,984 |
|
|
|
76,484 |
|
Steven J. Smith |
|
|
40,500 |
|
|
|
39,984 |
|
|
|
80,484 |
|
John J. Stollenwerk |
|
|
38,500 |
|
|
|
39,984 |
|
|
|
78,484 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Under the 2007 Director Stock Grant Plan, each director was awarded a grant of stock
valued at $40,000. The amount was divided by the closing price of the stock on the date of
grant and rounded down to the nearest whole share amounting to 1,666 shares of common stock
on April 30, 2007. This column reflects the value of that award. There were no other stock
awards or options granted in 2007, and no other awards that fully or partially vested in
2007. As of December 31, 2007, the outstanding number of vested option awards for directors
were: Mr. Fischer (30,400), Mr. Manning (6,400), Mr. Payne (30,400), Mr. Policano (6,400),
Mr. Smith (32,400) and Mr. Stollenwerk (6,400). There were no outstanding stock awards at
December 31, 2007. |
Retainer and Meeting Fees. Non-employee directors receive a $5,750 quarterly retainer, $1,500
for each Board of Directors meeting attended and $1,000 for each committee meeting attended. In
addition, they are reimbursed for out-of-pocket travel, lodging and meal expenses. The chairman of
the Audit Committee receives an annual fee of $4,000. All other committee chairmen and the lead
outside director each receive an annual fee of $2,000.
All non-employee directors also receive an annual stock grant of shares equal to $40,000 in
whole shares as determined by the closing market price for a share of common stock on the date of
grant rounded down to the nearest whole share.
Badger Meter Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors. Directors may elect to defer their
compensation, in whole or in part, in a stock and/or cash account of the Badger Meter Deferred
Compensation Plan for Directors.
Our directors do not participate in any stock option plans, incentive plans or pension plans,
and receive no perquisites, benefits or other forms of compensation, other than as disclosed above.
AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The Audit Committee is established by the Board of Directors for the primary purpose of
assisting the Board of Directors in the oversight of the integrity of our financial statements, our
compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the independent auditors qualifications and
independence, the performance of our internal audit function and independent auditors, and our
system of disclosure controls and system of internal controls regarding finance, accounting, legal
compliance and ethics that management and the Board of Directors have established. The Audit
Committee is made up of a group of independent directors and is required to meet at least quarterly
and report to the Board of Directors regularly. It met five times in 2007.
The Audit Committee is vested with all responsibilities and authority required by Rule 10A-3
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. It is comprised of the four members of the Board of
Directors named below, each of whom is independent as required by the American Stock Exchange and
U.S. Securities Exchange Commission rules currently in effect. The Board of Directors evaluates
the independence of the directors on at least an annual basis. All four members of the Audit
Committee have been determined by the Board of Directors to be financial experts as defined by
Securities and Exchange Commission rules. The Audit Committee acts under a written charter
available on our website at www.badgermeter.com.
Our management (management) has the primary responsibility for the preparation of financial
statements and the reporting process, including the systems of internal controls. In fulfilling
its oversight responsibilities, the Audit Committee reviewed with management our audited financial
statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2007, including discussion regarding the
propriety of the application of accounting principles by us, the reasonableness of significant
judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the financial statements, and the clarity of
disclosures in the financial statements. Management represented to the Audit Committee that our
financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States. The Audit Committee also reviewed and discussed our audited 2006 financial
statements with our independent auditors, Ernst & Young LLP, who are responsible for expressing an
opinion on the conformity of our audited financial statements with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles.
Ernst & Young LLP provided the Audit Committee the written disclosures and the letter required
by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (regarding independence discussions with audit
committees), and the Audit Committee discussed with Ernst and Young LLP the firms independence
from management and the company, including the matters in those written disclosures.
Prior to the audits, the Audit Committee discussed with Ernst & Young LLP and the companys
internal auditors the overall scope and plans for their respective audits. Ernst and Young LLP
conducted their independent audit. The Audit Committee met with Ernst & Young LLP, with and
without management present, to discuss the results of their audit examinations, their evaluations
of our internal controls, and the overall quality of our financial reporting, as well as the
matters required to be discussed by the Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61 (regarding
communication with audit committees), as amended, and other professional standards and regulatory
requirements as currently in effect.
Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the
Board of Directors that the audited financial statements be included in our Annual Report on Form
10-K for fiscal 2007 for filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
All members of the Audit Committee have approved the foregoing report.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Audit and Compliance Committee
Thomas J. Fischer, Chairman
Kenneth P. Manning
Ulice Payne, Jr.
Steven J. Smith
|
|
|
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS
AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
The Governance Committee met three times during 2007. There were no Governance Committee
interlocks.
2008 RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN PROPOSAL
General
Our Board of Directors approved the Badger Meter, Inc. 2008 Restricted Stock Plan (referred to
as the 2008 Plan) on February 15, 2008, subject to approval by the Companys shareholders. The
2008 Plan, if approved by our shareholders, will become effective on May 1, 2008.
As of February 29, 2008, there were 14,540,021 shares of common stock issued and outstanding,
and the closing price of a share of common stock on the American Stock Exchange on that date was
$38.17.
The following summary of the 2008 Plan is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full
text of the 2008 Plan, which is attached to this Proxy Statement as Appendix A. Any defined term
used in this section of the proxy statement has the meaning given it in the 2008 Plan.
Purpose
The 2008 Plan has two complementary purposes: (1) to promote the success of our company by
providing incentives to our officers and other key employees and the officers and other key
employees of our subsidiaries that will link their personal interests to our long-term financial
success and to growth in value; and (2) to permit us and our subsidiaries to attract, motivate and
retain experienced and knowledgeable employees upon whose judgment, interest and special efforts
our success is largely dependent.
Administration
The 2008 Plan will be administered by the Governance Committee. The committee has full power
and discretionary authority to implement the 2008 Plan including, without limitation, the authority
to select Participants, grant Restricted Stock Awards and determine the terms and conditions of
each such Awards. The committee has broad authority to modify, adjust or waive any of the
restrictions and/or limitations of the 2008 Plan. The committees determinations and decisions
made pursuant to the provisions of the 2008 Plan are final, conclusive and binding.
Eligibility
The committee may grant Restricted Stock Awards to any full-time, exempt employee of our
company or our subsidiaries or to such other key employees as the committee may determine. As of
February 29, 2008, we and our subsidiaries had approximately 220 Eligible Employees eligible to
receive Awards under the 2008 Plan. The number of Eligible Employees is expected to increase over
time based upon our future growth.
Stock Subject to the Plan; Limitations on Awards
The number of shares of common stock available for Restricted Stock Awards under the 2008 Plan
will be 100,000, subject to adjustment as set forth below. Shares of common stock to be granted
under the 2008 Plan will come from our authorized but unissued shares or from treasury shares. If
a Restricted Stock Award is forfeited or terminated for any reason, the Restricted Shares subject
to such Award will be available for regranting under the 2008 Plan.
No individual Participant may be granted Restricted Stock Awards under the 2008 Plan for more
than 20,000 shares.
Restricted Stock Awards
The committee has authority to determine the number of Restricted Shares subject to an Award
as well as the terms and conditions applicable to such Award, including the term of the Restriction
Period, which is the time
period during which such shares are restricted, and any conditions relating to the lapse of
the Restriction Period, including the attainment of one or more Performance Goals, if any, set by
the committee.
The committee has determined that the initial Awards of Restricted Shares under the 2008 Plan
will vest 100% after a three-year Restriction Period.
Termination of Employment
If a Participant leaves our employ (other than by reason of death or Total and Permanent
Disability) prior to the expiration of the applicable Restriction Period, then he or she forfeits
all of his or her Restricted Shares, provided that the Governance Committee may waive the
forfeiture of the Restricted Shares as long as the termination was not for Cause. In the event of
a Change in Control, all Restricted Shares automatically vest in full.
Transfer Restrictions
A Participant may not sell, transfer, assign or otherwise transfer his or her Restricted
Shares during the Restriction Period. During the applicable Restriction Period, we (or our
transfer agent) will hold all stock certificates representing Restricted Shares.
Participant Rights
During the Restriction Period, the Participant has the right to vote his or her Restricted
Shares until vested or forfeited. During the Restriction Period, any dividends or other
distributions with respect to Restricted Shares will be held by us (or our transfer agent) pending
vesting or forfeiture.
Adjustments
In the event of a merger, reorganization, consolidation, recapitalization, stock dividend,
stock split or other comparable change in our corporate structure affecting the common stock, the
committee will make such equitable changes or adjustments as it deems necessary or appropriate to
any or all of the number and class of Shares deliverable under the 2008 Plan, the individual
Participant Award limit and the number and class of shares subject to outstanding Restricted Stock
Awards.
Amendment and Termination
The Board of Directors may amend or terminate the 2008 Plan at any time, subject to applicable
law and the vested rights of Participants. The 2008 Plan will terminate on April 30, 2018, unless
earlier terminated by the Board of Directors or when all shares of common stock available for
issuance have been issued.
Tax Withholding
We are entitled to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to us, an amount
sufficient to satisfy all taxes required by law to be withheld with respect to the issuance of
Restricted Shares under the 2008 Plan or the lapse of the Restriction Period. We also have the
right to withhold common stock as to which the Restriction Period has lapsed and which have a fair
market value sufficient to satisfy all taxes required by law to be withheld..
Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences
Generally, a Participant will not recognize income, and we will not be entitled to a
deduction, at the time a Restricted Stock Award is made under the 2008 Plan, unless the Participant
makes the election described below. A Participant who has not made such an election will recognize
ordinary income at the time the Restriction Period ends in an amount equal to the fair market value
of the Restricted Shares at that time. We will generally be entitled to a corresponding deduction
in the same amount and at the same time as the Participant recognizes income. Under certain
circumstances involving a Change in Control, we may not be entitled to a deduction with respect to
Restricted Shares granted to certain executive officers. Any otherwise taxable disposition of the
common stock after
the Restriction Period ends will result in a capital gain or loss to the extent the amount
realized from the sale differs from the tax basis, i.e., the fair market value of the common stock
on the date the Restriction Period ends. Dividends, if any, paid in cash and received by a
Participant prior to the time the Restriction Period ends will constitute ordinary income to the
Participant in the year paid, and we will generally be entitled to a corresponding deduction for
such payments. (The 2008 Plan currently contemplates that no dividends will be paid on Restricted
Shares until the Restriction Period ends, although the committee has authority to accelerate the
payment of such dividends.) Any dividends paid in common stock will be treated as an Award of
additional Restricted Shares subject to the tax treatment described herein.
A Participant may, within 30 days after the date of a Restricted Stock Award, elect under
Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code to recognize ordinary income as of the date of the Award
in an amount equal to the fair market value of such Restricted Stock on the date of the Award (less
the amount, if any, the Participant paid for such Restricted Shares). If the Participant makes a
proper election, then we will generally be entitled to a corresponding deduction in the same amount
and at the same time as the Participant recognizes income. If the Participant makes the election,
then cash dividends, if any, that the Participant receives with respect to the Restricted Shares
will be treated as dividend income to the Participant in the year of payment and will not be
deductible by us. Any otherwise taxable disposition of the Restricted Shares (other than by
forfeiture) or the common stock received upon the termination of the Restriction Period will result
in a capital gain or loss. If the Participant who has made an election subsequently forfeits the
Restricted Stock, then the Participant will not be entitled to deduct any loss. In addition, we
would then be required to include in its ordinary income the amount of any deduction we originally
claimed with respect to such shares.
New Plan Benefits
We cannot currently determine the Awards that may be granted under the 2008 Plan in the future
to the executive officers named in this proxy statement, other executive officers, directors (who
are also Eligible Employees) or other persons. The committee will make such determinations from
time to time.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
Securities available under our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2007, are listed
under EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION Equity Compensation Plan Information as of December 31, 2007
earlier in this proxy statement.
Equity Compensation Plan Information as of December 31, 2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities Remaining |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Available for Future |
|
|
Securities to be Issued |
|
Weighted-Average |
|
Issuance under Equity |
|
|
upon Exercise of |
|
Exercise Price of |
|
Compensation Plans |
|
|
Outstanding Options, |
|
Outstanding Options, |
|
(Excluding Securities |
|
|
Warrants and Rights |
|
Warrants and Rights |
|
Reflected |
Plan Category |
|
(#) |
|
($) |
|
in Column 1)(#) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity
compensation plans
approved by security
holders |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
STOCK OPTION PLANS: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1989 Plan |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
1993 Plan |
|
|
5,200 |
|
|
|
9.38 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
1995 Plan |
|
|
37,920 |
|
|
|
8.94 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
1997 Plan |
|
|
114,550 |
|
|
|
9.54 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
1999 Plan |
|
|
274,600 |
|
|
|
9.51 |
|
|
|
260 |
|
2003 Plan |
|
|
171,600 |
|
|
|
10.32 |
|
|
|
524,120 |
|
2007 DIRECTOR STOCK |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
|
|
GRANT PLAN: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity compensation
plans not approved by
security holders |
|
None |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Total |
|
|
603,870 |
|
|
|
9.71 |
|
|
|
524,380 |
|
Vote Required
The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes represented and voted at the annual meeting
(assuming a quorum is present) is required to approve the 2008 Plan. Any shares not voted at the
annual meeting (whether as a result of broker non-votes, abstentions or otherwise) with respect to
the 2008 Plan will have no impact on the vote, assuming a quorum is present. Shares of common
stock represented at the annual meeting by executed but unmarked proxies will be voted FOR the 2008
Plan.
THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE FOR
THE 2008 RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO OUR RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
The Board of Directors has unanimously approved and is recommending that shareholders approve an
amendment to our Restated Articles of Incorporation to eliminate the classified Board structure and
provide for the annual election of directors. If the proposal is approved, the terms of all
directors, including those elected at this annual meeting, will expire at the 2009 Annual Meeting
and all directors will be elected annually beginning at the 2009 Annual Meeting. If the proposal
is not approved, the Board of Directors will remain classified and the directors elected at this
annual meeting will serve for a three-year term.
Article
Fourth of our Restated Articles of Incorporation currently provide for the classification of the
Board of Directors into three classes designated as Class I, Class II and Class III, with the
term of office of each class being three years. Our Board of Directors and the Governance
Committee have considered the arguments in favor of and against a classified Board of Directors
on several occasions. While the Board of Directors believes that the classified structure has
provided stability and facilitated the development by our directors of a deep understanding of
our business and markets and the ability to plan and execute long-term strategies for the
direction of our company, the Board of Directors also recognizes growing sentiment among
shareholders that annual election of directors would increase the directors accountability to
our shareholders. Therefore, the Board of Directors is recommending approval of the proposed
amendment to Article Fourth of our Restated Articles of Incorporation to declassify the Board
of Directors. If approved by the shareholders, beginning at the 2009 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders, all directors will be elected annually to one-year terms.
The proposed amendment is attached to this Proxy Statement as Appendix B. If approved, the
amendment will become effective upon filing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial
Institutions, which the we intend to do promptly following the annual meeting.
The affirmative vote of shareholders holding at least seventy percent (70%) of the outstanding
shares of common stock is required to approve the amendment to declassify the Board of Directors.
Any shares not voted at the annual meeting (whether as a result of broker non-votes, abstentions or
otherwise) with respect to the amendment to declassify the Board of
Directors will have the same effect as a vote
against the proposal. Shares of common stock represented at the annual meeting by executed but
unmarked proxies will be voted FOR the amendment to declassify the Board of Directors.
THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF THE AMENDMENT TO
ARTICLE FOURTH OF THE RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FIRM FEES
Ernst & Young LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, has been selected to
audit us and our subsidiaries for 2008. Representatives of Ernst & Young LLP will be present at
the annual meeting to respond to appropriate questions and to make a statement if they desire to do
so. Fees for professional services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm
in each of the last two fiscal years is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Audit (1) |
|
$ |
407,200 |
|
|
$ |
520,400 |
|
Audit Related (2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
15,000 |
|
Tax |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
All other Fees |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Fees |
|
$ |
407,200 |
|
|
$ |
535,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Includes annual financial statement audit, review of our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and
statutory audits required internationally. |
|
(2) |
|
Includes primarily internal control consultations in 2006. |
As part of its duties, the Audit Committee pre-approves services provided by Ernst & Young
LLP. In selecting Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the
fiscal year ending December 31, 2008, the Audit Committee has determined that the non-audit
services provided by Ernst & Young LLP are compatible with maintaining the independence of Ernst &
Young LLP. No additional non-audit services will be performed without the Audit Committees prior
approval.
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires our officers, directors and
persons who beneficially own more than ten percent of our common stock to file reports concerning
the ownership of our equity securities with the Securities and Exchange Commission and us. Based
solely on a review of the copies of such forms furnished to us, we believe that all reports
required by Section 16(a) to be filed by us on behalf of our insiders were filed on a timely basis.
OTHER MATTERS
We have filed an Annual Report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission for
our fiscal year ended December 31, 2007. The Form 10-K is posted on our Web site at
www.badgermeter.com. We will provide a copy of this Form 10-K without exhibits to each person who
is a record or beneficial holder of shares of common stock on the record date for the annual
meeting. We will provide a copy of the exhibits without charge to each person who is a record or
beneficial holder of shares of common stock on the record date for the annual meeting who submits a
written request for it. Requests for copies of the Form 10-K should be addressed to Secretary,
Badger Meter, Inc., 4545 West Brown Deer Road, P.O. Box 245036, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53224-9536;
(414) 355-0400.
Pursuant to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, services that deliver our
communications to shareholders that hold their stock through a bank, broker or other holder of
record may deliver to multiple shareholders sharing the same address a single copy of our annual
report to shareholders and proxy statement. Upon written or oral request, we will promptly deliver
a separate copy of the annual report to shareholders and/or proxy statement to any shareholder at a
shared address to which a single copy of each document was delivered, or a single copy to any
shareholders sharing the same address to whom multiple copies were delivered. Shareholders may
notify us of their requests by writing or calling the Secretary, Badger Meter, Inc., 4545 West
Brown Deer Road, P.O. Box 245306, Milwaukee, WI, 53224-9536; (414) 355-0400.
The cost of solicitation of proxies will be borne by us. Brokers, nominees and custodians who
hold stock in their names and who solicit proxies from the beneficial owners will be reimbursed by
us for out-of-pocket and reasonable clerical expenses.
The Board of Directors does not intend to present at the annual meeting any matters other than
those set forth herein and does not presently know of any other matters that may be presented at
the annual meeting by others. However, if any other matters should properly come before the annual
meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the enclosed proxy to vote said proxy on any
such matters in accordance with their best judgment.
A shareholder wishing to include a proposal in the proxy statement for the 2009 Annual Meeting
of Shareholders pursuant to Rule 14a-8 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
(referred to as Rule 14a-8), must forward the proposal to our Secretary by November 19, 2008.
A shareholder who intends to present business, other than a shareholders proposal pursuant to
Rule 14a-8, at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (including nominating persons for election
as directors) must comply with the requirements set forth in our Restated By-Laws. Among other
things, to bring business before an annual meeting, a shareholder must give written notice thereof,
complying with the Restated By-Laws, to our Secretary not less than 60 days and not more than 90
days prior to the second Saturday in the month of April (subject to certain exceptions if the
annual meeting is advanced or delayed a certain number of days). Accordingly, if we do not receive
notice of a shareholder proposal submitted otherwise than pursuant to Rule 14a-8 between January
11, 2009 and February 10, 2009, then the notice will be considered untimely and we will not be
required to present such proposal at the 2009 Annual Meeting. If the Board of Directors chooses to
present such proposal at the 2009 Annual Meeting, then the persons named in proxies solicited by
the Board of Directors for the 2009 Annual Meeting may exercise discretionary voting power with
respect to such proposal.
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William R.A. Bergum Secretary |
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MARCH ___, 2008
PRELIMINARY
COPY SUBJECT TO CHANGE DATED MARCH 7, 2008
APPENDIX
A
BADGER METER, INC.
2008 RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN
ARTICLE 1.
PURPOSE AND DURATION
Section 1.1 Purpose. The Badger Meter, Inc. 2008 Restricted Stock
Plan has two complementary purposes: (a) to promote the success of the Company by providing
incentives to the officers and other key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries that will
link their personal interests to the long-term financial success of the Company and to growth in
value; and (b) to permit the Company and its subsidiaries to attract, motivate and retain
experienced and knowledgeable employees upon whose judgment, interest, and special efforts the
successful conduct of the Companys operations is largely dependent.
Section 1.2 Duration. Subject to the approval of the Companys
shareholders at the Companys 2008 annual meeting of shareholders, the Plan will become effective
on May 1, 2008. The Plan shall continue in effect until the earliest of: (a) April 30, 2018, (b)
the date the Board terminates the Plan pursuant to Article 9 herein, or (c) the date all Shares
reserved for issuance under the Plan have been issued.
ARTICLE 2.
DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION
Section 2.1 Definitions. Wherever used in the Plan, the following
terms shall have the meanings set forth below and, when the meaning is intended, the initial letter
of the word is capitalized:
(a) Affiliate shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Rule 12b-2 under the
Exchange Act.
(b) Award means a grant of Restricted Shares.
(c) Beneficial Owner (or derivatives thereof) shall have the meaning ascribed to
such term in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
(d) Board means the Board of Directors of the Company.
(e) Cause means: (1) if the Participant is subject to an employment agreement,
severance agreement or similar agreement with the Company or any of its subsidiaries that contains
a definition of cause, such definition; or (2) otherwise, any of the following as determined by
the Committee: (a) violation of the provisions of any employment agreement, non-competition
agreement, confidentiality agreement, or similar agreement with the Company or any of its
subsidiaries, or the Companys or any of its subsidiaries code of ethics, as then in effect; (b)
conduct rising to the level of gross negligence or willful misconduct in the course of employment
with the Company or any of its subsidiaries; (c) commission of an act of dishonesty or disloyalty
involving the Company or any of its subsidiaries; (d) violation of any federal, state or local law
in connection with the Participants employment; or (e) breach of any fiduciary duty to the Company
or any of its subsidiaries.
(f) Change in Control means the occurrence of any one of the following:
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(i) |
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any Person (other than Excluded Persons, as defined below) is
or becomes the Beneficial Owner (as such term is defined in Rule
13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of
the Company (not including in the securities beneficially owned by such
Person any securities acquired directly from the Company or its
Affiliates after January 1, 2008, pursuant to express authorization by
the Board that refers to this exception and not including securities of
the Company subject to proxies held by such Person, but including
securities of the Company subject to exercisable options held by such
Person) representing 15% or more of either the then outstanding shares
of common stock of the Company or the combined voting power of the
Companys then outstanding voting securities. Excluded Persons shall
mean (A) the Company; (B) any subsidiary of the Company; (C) any
employee benefit plan of the Company or any subsidiary of the Company
(collectively, Employee Benefit Plans); (D) any entity holding
securities for or pursuant to the terms of any Employee Benefit Plans;
(E) any trustee, administrator or fiduciary of any Employee Benefit
Plans in their capacities as such; (F) an underwriter temporarily
holding securities pursuant to an offering of such securities; (G) a
corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the shareholders of the
Company in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of
stock in the Company; and (H) any Person who has reported or is
required to report their ownership on Schedule 13G under the Exchange
Act (or any comparable or successor report) or on Schedule 13D under
the Exchange Act (or any comparable or successor report), which
Schedule 13D does not disclose pursuant to Item 4 thereto (or any
comparable successor item or section) an intent, or reserve the right,
to engage in a control transaction, any contested solicitation for the
election of directors or any of the other actions specified in Item 4
thereto (or any comparable successor item or section), who
inadvertently becomes the Beneficial Owner of 15% or more of either the
then outstanding shares of common stock of the Company or the combined
voting power of the Companys then outstanding voting securities and,
within ten business days of being requested by the Company to advise it
regarding the same, certifies to the Company that such Person acquired
15% or more of either the then outstanding shares of common stock of
the Company or the combined voting power of the Companys then
outstanding voting securities inadvertently and who or which, together
with all Affiliates and associates, thereafter does not acquire
additional shares of common stock or voting securities of the Company
while the Beneficial Owner of 15% or more of either the then
outstanding shares of common stock of the Company or the combined
voting power of the Companys then outstanding voting securities;
provided, however, that if the Person requested to so certify fails to
do so within ten business days or breaches or violates such
certification, then such Person shall cease to be an Excluded Person
immediately after such ten business day period or such breach or
violation; or |
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(ii) |
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the following individuals cease for any reason to constitute
a majority of the number of directors then serving: individuals who,
on January 1, 2008, constituted the Board and any new director (other
than a director |
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whose initial assumption of office is in connection with an actual or
threatened election contest, including but not limited to a consent
solicitation, relating to the election of directors of the Company,
as such terms are used in former Rule 14a-11 of Regulation 14A under
the Exchange Act) whose appointment or election by the Board or
nomination for election by the Companys shareholders was approved by
a vote of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the directors then still in
office who either were directors on January 1, 2008, or whose
appointment, election or nomination for election was previously so
approved; or |
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(iii) |
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the shareholders of the Company approve a merger,
consolidation or share exchange of the Company with any other
corporation or approve the issuance of voting securities of the Company
in connection with a merger, consolidation or share exchange of the
Company in connection with a merger, consolidation or share exchange of
the Company (or any direct or indirect subsidiary of the Company)
pursuant to applicable stock exchange requirements, other than (A) a
merger, consolidation or share exchange which would result in the
voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior to such
merger, consolidation or share exchange continuing to represent (either
by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities
of the surviving entity or any parent thereof) at least 50% of the
combined voting power of the voting securities of the Company of such
surviving entity or any parent thereof outstanding immediately after
such merger, consolidation or share exchange, or (B) a merger,
consolidation or share exchange effected to implement a
recapitalization of the Company (or similar transaction) in which no
Person (other than an Excluded Person) is or becomes the Beneficial
Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company (not
including in the securities beneficially owned by such Person any
securities acquired directly from the Company or its Affiliates after
January 1, 2008 pursuant to express authorization by the Board that
refers to this exception) representing 15% or more of either the then
outstanding shares of common stock of the Company or the combined
voting power of the Companys then outstanding voting securities; or |
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the shareholders of the Company approve a plan of complete
liquidation or dissolution of the Company or an agreement for the sale
or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of the
Companys assets (in one transaction or a series of related
transactions within any period of 24 consecutive months), other than a
sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of the
Companys assets to an entity at least 75% of the combined voting power
of the voting securities of which are owned by Persons in substantially
the same proportions as their ownership of the Company immediately
prior to such sale. |
(g) Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as interpreted by rules and
regulations issued pursuant thereto, all as amended and in effect from time to time. Any reference
to a specific provision of the Code shall be deemed to include reference to any successor provision
thereto.
(h) Committee means the Corporate Governance Committee of the Board, or such other
committee appointed by the Board to administer the Plan pursuant to Article 3 herein.
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(i) Company means Badger Meter, Inc., a Wisconsin corporation, and any successor
as provided in Article 12.
(j) Eligible Employee means a full-time exempt employee of the Company or any of
its subsidiaries or such other key employees as determined by the Committee.
(k) Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as interpreted by
rules and regulations issued pursuant thereto, all as amended and in effect from time to time. Any
reference to a specific provision of the Exchange Act shall be deemed to include reference to any
successor provision thereto.
(l) Fair Market Value means with respect to any property other than Shares, such
value as is determined by the Committee, and means with respect to Shares, (1) the closing price of
the Shares as of the date in question, or, if no closing price is available on that date, then the
closing price on the immediately preceding business day on which there is a closing price, if such
security is listed or admitted for trading on any domestic national securities exchange, as
officially reported on the principal securities exchange on which the Shares are listed; (2) if not
reported as described in clause (1), the closing sale price of the Shares as of the date in
question, or, if no closing sale price is available on that date, then the closing sale price on
the immediately preceding business day on which there is a closing sale price, as reported by any
system of automated dissemination of quotations of securities prices then in common use, if so
quoted; or (3) if not reported as described in clause (1) or quoted as described in clause (2),
then the Committee shall determine in good faith and on a reasonable basis the applicable Fair
Market Value, which determination shall be conclusive.
(m) Inimical Conduct means any act or omission that is inimical to the best
interests of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, as determined by the Committee in its sole
discretion, including but not limited to: (1) violation of the provisions of any employment
agreement, non-competition agreement, confidentiality agreement, or similar agreement with the
Company or any of its subsidiaries, or the Companys or any of its subsidiaries code of ethics, as
then in effect; (2) taking any steps or doing anything which would damage or negatively reflect on
the reputation of the Company or any of its subsidiaries; or (3) failure to comply with applicable
laws relating to trade secrets, confidential information or unfair competition.
(n) Participant means an Eligible Employee who has been granted an Award.
(o) Performance Goals means any goal(s) the Committee establishes that relate to
one or more of the following with respect to the Company or any one or more of its subsidiaries or
other business units: net sales; cost of sales; gross income; operating income; earnings before
interest and taxes; earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization; income from
continuing operations; net income; basic earnings per share; diluted earnings per share; cash flow;
net cash provided by operating activities; net cash provided by operating activities less net cash
used in investing activities; ratio of debt to debt plus equity; return on shareholder equity;
return on invested capital; return on average total capital employed; return on net assets employed
before interest and taxes; operating working capital; average accounts receivable (calculated by
taking the average of accounts receivable at the end of each month); average inventories
(calculated by taking the average of inventories at the end of each month); and economic value
added. As to each Performance Goal, the relevant measurement of performance shall be computed in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, but, unless otherwise determined by
the Committee, will exclude the effects of (1) extraordinary, unusual and/or non-recurring
items of gain or loss; (2) gains or losses on the disposition of a business; (3) changes in tax or
accounting regulations or laws; or (4) the effect of a merger or acquisition, that in each case the
Company identifies in its audited financial statements, including footnotes, or the Managements
Discussion and
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Analysis section of the Companys annual report on Form 10-K. In the case of Awards that the
Committee determines will not be considered performance-based compensation under Code Section
162(m), the Committee may establish other Performance Goals not listed in the Plan.
(p) Person shall have the meaning given in Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act, as
modified and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) thereof.
(q) Plan means this Badger Meter, Inc. 2008 Restricted Stock Plan, as from time to
time amended and in effect.
(r) Restricted Shares means Shares that are subject to a Restriction Period.
(s) Restriction Period means the period during which Shares issued under the Plan
may not be transferred and are subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture.
(t) Retirement means a voluntary termination of employment from the Company and
its subsidiaries (other than for Cause) in accordance with a Company retirement plan or policy.
(u) Securities Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as interpreted by rules and
regulations issued pursuant thereto, all as amended and in effect from time to time. Any reference
to a specific provision of the Securities Act shall be deemed to include reference to any successor
provision thereto.
(v) Share means a share of the common stock, $1 par value, of the Company, or such
other securities specified in Section 4.4.
(w) Total and Permanent Disability means the Participants inability to perform
the material duties of his occupation as a result of a medically-determinable physical or mental
impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last
for a period of at least 12 months, as determined by the Committee. The Participant will be
required to submit such medical evidence or to undergo a medical examination by a doctor selected
by the Committee as the Committee determines is necessary in order to make a determination
hereunder.
Section 2.2 Construction. Wherever any words are used in the
masculine, they shall be construed as though they were used in the feminine in all cases where they
would so apply; and wherever any words are use in the singular or the plural, they shall be
construed as though they were used in the plural or the singular, as the case may be, in all cases
where they would so apply. Titles of articles and sections are for general information only, and
the Plan is not to be construed by reference to such items.
Section 2.3 Severability. In the event any provision of the Plan is
held illegal or invalid for any reason, the illegality or invalidity shall not affect the remaining
parts of the Plan, and the Plan shall be construed and enforced as if the said illegal or invalid
provision had not been included.
ARTICLE 3.
ADMINISTRATION
Section 3.1 The Committee. The Plan shall be administered by the
Committee. If at any time the Committee shall cease to exist, then the Plan shall be administered
by the Board or another
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committee appointed by the Board, and each reference to the Committee herein shall be deemed
to refer to the Board or such committee appointed by the Board.
Section 3.2 Authority of the Committee. In addition to the
authority specifically granted to the Committee in the Plan, and subject to the provisions of the
Plan, the Committee shall have full power and discretionary authority to: (a) select Participants,
grant Awards, and determine the terms and conditions of each such Award, including but not limited
to the Restriction Period and the number of Shares to which the Award will relate; (b) administer
the Plan, including but not limited to the power and authority to construe and interpret the Plan
and any award agreement; (c) correct errors, supply omissions or reconcile inconsistencies in the
terms of the Plan and any award agreement; (d) establish, amend or waive rules and regulations, and
appoint such agents, as it deems appropriate for the Plans administration; and (e) make any other
determinations, including factual determinations, and take any other action as it determines is
necessary or desirable for the Plans administration.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall have no authority to act to adversely
affect the rights or benefits granted under any outstanding Award without the consent of the person
holding such Award (other than as specifically provided herein).
Section 3.3 Decision Binding. The Committees determination and
decisions made pursuant to the provisions of the Plan and all related orders or resolutions of the
Board shall be final, conclusive and binding on all persons who have an interest in the Plan or an
Award, and such determinations and decisions shall not be reviewable.
Section 3.4 Procedures of the Committee. The Committees
determinations must be made by not less than a majority of its members present at the meeting (in
person or otherwise) at which a quorum is present, or by written majority consent, which sets forth
the action, is signed by each member of the Committee and filed with the minutes for proceedings of
the Committee. A majority of the entire Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of
business. Service on the Committee shall constitute service as a director of the Company so that
the Committee members shall be entitled to indemnification, limitation of liability and
reimbursement of expenses with respect to their Committee services to the same extent that they are
entitled under the Companys By-laws and Wisconsin law for their services as directors of the
Company.
Section 3.5 Award Agreements. The Committee shall evidence the
grant of each Award by an award agreement which shall be signed by an authorized officer of the
Company and by the Participant, and shall contain such terms and conditions as may be approved by
the Committee, subject to the terms of the Plan. Terms and conditions of such Awards need not be
the same in all cases.
ARTICLE 4.
SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN; ADJUSTMENTS
Section 4.1 Number of Shares. Subject to adjustment as provided in
Section 4.4, the aggregate number of Shares that may be issued under the Plan shall not exceed One
Hundred Thousand (100,000) Shares.
Section 4.2 Lapsed Awards. If any Award is forfeited or terminated
for any reason, the Restricted Shares subject to such Award that are forfeited shall be available
for the grant of a new Award under the Plan.
Section 4.3 Individual Limit. Subject to adjustment as provided in
Section 4.4, no Participant may be granted Awards during the term of the Plan of more than 20,000
Restricted Shares.
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Section 4.4 Adjustments in Number of Shares. In the event that the
Board or the Committee, as the case may be, shall determine that any dividend or other distribution
(whether in the form of cash, Shares, or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse
split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, spin-off, combination, repurchase, or share exchange,
or other similar corporate transaction or event, affects the Shares such that an adjustment is
appropriate in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the rights of holders of Awards under
the Plan, then the Board or the Committee, as the case may be, shall make such equitable changes or
adjustments as it deems necessary or appropriate to any or all of: (a) the number and class of
Shares which may be delivered under the Plan; (b) the individual Share limit described in Section
4.3; and (c) the number and class of Shares subject to
outstanding Awards; provided, however, that
the number of Shares subject to any individual Award shall be rounded down to the nearest whole
number.
ARTICLE 5.
PARTICIPATION
Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall have the authority to select the
Eligible Employees to receive Awards. No Eligible Employee shall have any right to be granted an
Award, even if previously granted an Award.
ARTICLE 6.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF AWARDS
Section 6.1 Grant of Award. Subject to the terms and provisions of
the Plan, the Committee shall have the authority to determine the number of Shares to which an
Award shall relate, the term of the Restriction Period and conditions for lapse thereof, including
but not limited to the attainment of one or more Performance Goals, and any other terms and
conditions of an Award.
Section 6.2 Terms and Conditions of Awards.
(a) Period of Restriction. Unless the Committee determines otherwise,
Restricted Shares may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or
hypothecated by a Participant prior to the lapse of the Restriction Period, other than by will or
the laws of descent and distribution. The Restricted Shares shall be subject to a substantial risk
of forfeiture until the termination of the applicable Restriction Period as set forth in the
Participants award agreement or as provided herein. During the Restriction Period, the Company
shall have the right to hold the Restricted Shares. During the Restriction Period, Restricted
Shares may not participate in the Badger Meter, Inc. Automatic Dividend Reinvestment and Stock
Purchase Plan.
(b) Certificate Legend. At the Committees direction, each certificate
representing Restricted Shares may bear the following legend:
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THE SALE OR OTHER TRANSFER OF THE SHARES OF STOCK REPRESENTED BY
THIS CERTIFICATE, WHETHER VOLUNTARY, INVOLUNTARY, OR BY OPERATION OF
LAW, IS SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER SET FORTH IN THE
BADGER METER, INC. 2008 RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN, IN THE RULES AND
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SUCH PLAN AND/OR IN A
RESTRICTED STOCK AGREEMENT, DATED ___. A COPY OF
THE 2008 RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN, SUCH RULES AND ADMINISTRATIVE |
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PROCEDURES AND SUCH RESTRICTED STOCK AGREEMENT MAY BE OBTAINED FROM
THE SECRETARY OF BADGER METER, INC. |
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(c) Removal of Restrictions. Except as otherwise provided in this Article
6, Restricted Shares shall become vested in, and freely transferable by, a Participant after the
last day of the Restriction Period. Once the Restricted Shares are released from the restrictions,
a Participant shall be entitled to have the legend required by subsection (b) removed from his or
her stock certificate representing such shares.
(d) Voting Rights. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, during the
Restriction Period Participants holding Restricted Shares may exercise full voting rights with
respect to those Shares.
(e) Dividends and Other Distributions. Any dividends or other distributions
paid or delivered with respect to Restricted Shares will be subject to the same terms and
conditions (including risk of forfeiture) as the Restricted Shares to which they relate, and
payment or delivery thereof will be deferred accordingly; provided, however, that at any time and
from time to time the Committee may, in its sole discretion, provide for the earlier payout of
deferred and/or current dividends and distributions. No such deferred amount shall bear interest.
(f) Direct Registration. Notwithstanding anything in this Plan to the
contrary, the Company in its sole discretion may issue Shares or Restricted Shares hereunder
pursuant to the direct registration system, and, in lieu of the issuance of certificated Shares or
Restricted Shares, may issue uncertificated Shares or Restricted Shares, respectively, to the
account of the Participant. Any references to Share or Restricted Share certificates shall, in
such event, be deemed to refer to uncertificated Shares or Restricted Shares, as the case may be
Section 6.3 Termination of Employment. Except as otherwise provided
by the Committee in a Participants award agreement, upon a Participants termination of employment
with the Company and its subsidiaries, the following rules shall apply:
(a) Death, Disability or Retirement. If a Participants termination of
employment is due to death, Retirement or Total and Permanent Disability at a time when the
Participant could not have been terminated for Cause, any remaining Restriction Period shall
automatically lapse as of the date of such termination of employment or death, as applicable.
(b) Termination for Other Reasons. If the Participants employment
terminates for any reason not described above, then any Restricted Shares still subject to a
Restriction Period as of the date of such termination shall automatically be forfeited and returned
to the Company; provided, however, that in the event of an involuntary termination of the
employment of a Participant by the Company or any of its subsidiaries other than for Cause, the
Committee may waive the automatic forfeiture of any or all such Shares and may add such new
restrictions to such Restricted Shares as it, in its sole and absolute discretion, deems
appropriate.
(c) Suspension. The Committee may suspend payment or delivery of Shares
(without liability for interest thereon) pending its determination of whether a Participant was or
should have been terminated for Cause or whether a Participant has engaged in Inimical Conduct.
Section 6.4 Other Restrictions. The Committee may impose such other
restrictions on any Awards granted under the Plan (including after the Restriction Period lapses)
as it may deem
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advisable including, without limitation, restrictions under applicable Federal or state
securities laws, and the Company may legend certificates to give appropriate notice of such
restrictions.
ARTICLE 7.
RIGHTS OF PARTICIPANTS
Section 7.1 Employment. Nothing in the Plan shall interfere with or
limit in any way the right of the Company or any of its subsidiaries to terminate any Participants
employment at any time, nor confer upon any Participant any right to continue in the employ of the
Company or any of its subsidiaries.
Section 7.2 No Implied Rights; Rights on Termination of Service.
Neither the establishment of the Plan nor any amendment thereof shall be construed as giving any
Participant or any other person any legal or equitable right unless such right shall be
specifically provided for in the Plan or conferred by specific action of the Committee in
accordance with the terms and provisions of the Plan.
Section 7.3 No Funding. Except as provided in Section 6.2(e),
Participants will only receive Shares upon the expiration of the Restriction Period for Awards.
Neither the Participant nor any other person shall acquire, by reason of the Plan or any Award, any
right in or title to any assets, funds or property of the Company and its subsidiaries whatsoever
including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, any specific funds, assets, or other
property which the Company or its subsidiaries may, in their sole discretion, set aside in
anticipation of a liability hereunder. Any amounts which may become payable hereunder shall be
paid from the general assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, as applicable. The Participant
shall have only a contractual right to the amounts, if any, payable hereunder unsecured by any
asset of the Company or its subsidiaries. Nothing contained in the Plan constitutes a guarantee by
the Company or its subsidiaries that the assets of the Company or its subsidiaries shall be
sufficient to pay to any person any amount which may become payable hereunder.
Section 7.4 Other Restrictions. As a condition to the issuance of
any Shares under the Plan, the Committee may require a Participant to enter into a restrictive
stock transfer agreement or other shareholders agreement with the Company.
ARTICLE 8.
CHANGE IN CONTROL
The Restriction Period for each outstanding Award shall automatically lapse upon a Change in
Control.
ARTICLE 9.
AMENDMENT, MODIFICATION, AND TERMINATION
Section 9.1 Amendment, Modification, and Termination of the Plan.
The Board may amend or terminate the Plan at any time, subject to the following limitations: (a)
shareholders must approve any amendment of the Plan if the Committee determines such approval is
required by: (i) the Exchange Act, (ii) the Code, (iii) the listing requirements of the American
Stock Exchange or any principal securities exchange or market on which the Shares are then traded,
or (iv) any other applicable law. Without the written consent of the affected Participant or
except as expressly provided in the Plan, no termination, amendment or modification of the Plan
shall adversely affect any Award theretofore granted under the Plan.
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Section 9.2 Amendment of Award Agreements. The Committee may at any
time amend any outstanding award agreement; provided, however, that any amendment that decreases or
impairs the rights of a Participant under such agreement shall not be effective unless consented to
by the Participant in writing, except that Participant consent shall not be required if an Award is
amended, adjusted or cancelled under Section 4.4 .
Section 9.3 Survival Following Termination. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, to the extent provided in the Plan, the authority of (a) the Committee to amend, alter,
adjust, suspend, discontinue or terminate any Award, waive any conditions or restrictions with
respect to any Award, and otherwise administer the Plan and any Award and (b) the Board to amend
the Plan, shall continue beyond the date of the Plans termination. Termination of the Plan shall
not affect the rights of Participants with respect to Awards previously granted to them, and all
unexpired Awards shall continue in force and effect after termination of the Plan except as they
may lapse or be terminated by their own terms and conditions.
Section 9.4 Shareholder Re-Approval. If determined by the Company,
in order to continue to grant performance-based Awards under Code Section 162(m), the material
terms of the Plan shall be re-approved by the Companys shareholders no later than the first annual
shareholders meeting (or special meeting in lieu of such meeting) that occurs in 2013.
ARTICLE 10.
WITHHOLDING
Section 10.1 Tax Withholding. The Company shall have the power and
the right to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to the Company, an applicable
amount sufficient to satisfy foreign, Federal, state and local taxes (including the Participants
F.I.C.A. obligation) required by law to be withheld (the tax amount) with respect to the issuance
of Shares under the Plan or the lapse of the Restriction Period. The Company shall also have the
right to withhold Shares as to which the Restriction Period has lapsed and which have a Fair Market
Value on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld is determined (the tax date) equal to all
or any portion of the amount otherwise to be collected subject to any limitations prescribed by
applicable law (in all cases, only that number of whole Shares the Fair Market Value of which does
not exceed the tax amount shall be withheld or delivered and the Participant shall make a cash
payment to the Company equal to any excess amount to be withheld or collected). The value of the
Shares to be withheld is to be based on the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the tax date.
Section 10.2 Stock Delivery or Withholding. Participants may elect,
subject to the approval of the Committee and such rules as it shall prescribe, to satisfy the
withholding requirement, in whole or in part, by tendering to the Company previously-acquired
Shares (or by having the Company withhold Shares as to which the Restriction Period has lapsed) in
an amount having a Fair Market Value equal to the tax amount. Such election must be made on or
before the tax date. Once made, the election is irrevocable. The value of the Shares to be
tendered (or withheld) is to be based on the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the tax date.
ARTICLE 11.
LEGENDS; PAYMENT OF EXPENSES
Section 11.1 Legends. The Company may endorse such legend or
legends upon the certificates for Shares issued under the Plan, including but not limited to the
legends referenced in Section 6.2(b) and Section 6.4, and may issue such stop transfer
instructions to its transfer agent in respect of such Shares as it determines to be necessary,
appropriate or convenient to (a) prevent a violation of, or to
10
perfect an exemption from, the registration requirements of the Securities Act, applicable
state securities laws or other legal requirements, or (b) implement the provisions of the Plan or
any agreement between the Company and a Participant with respect to such Shares.
Section 11.2 Payment of Expenses. The Company shall pay for all
issuance taxes with respect to the issuance of Shares under the Plan, as well as all fees and
expenses incurred by the Company in connection with such issuance.
ARTICLE 12.
SUCCESSORS
All obligations of the Company under the Plan respecting Awards shall be binding on any
successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or
indirect purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business
and/or assets of the Company. The Plan shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
Participants and their heirs, executors, administrators or legal representatives.
ARTICLE 13.
REQUIREMENTS OF LAW
Section 13.1 Requirements of Law. The granting of Awards and the
issuance of Shares under the Plan shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations,
and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be
required.
Section 13.2 Governing Law. The Plan and the rights and obligations
hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of
Wisconsin (excluding any choice of law rules that may direct the application of the laws of another
jurisdiction).
* * *
11
PRELIMINARY
COPY SUBJECT TO CHANGE DATED MARCH 7, 2008
APPENDIX
B
ARTICLE FOURTH
(1) Number and Tenure of Directors.
There shall be a Board of Directors which shall consist of such number of Directors as shall from
time to time be specified in the Bylaws but which shall not be less than three (3). The Directors
shall serve for a term of one year, and until their successors are elected and qualified, or with
regard to any Director until that Directors earlier death, resignation or removal. If there is a
vacancy, including a vacancy because of a newly created directorship, the person elected to fill
that vacancy shall serve until the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders and until that persons
successor is elected and qualified.
PRELIMINARY
PROXY CARD SUBJECT TO CHANGE DATED MARCH 7, 2008
PROXY
2008 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
BADGER METER, INC.
The undersigned hereby appoints Richard A. Meeusen, Ronald H. Dix and William R.A. Bergum, or
any of them, as proxies for the undersigned at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Badger Meter,
Inc. to be held on Friday, April 25, 2008, at Badger Meter, Inc., 4545 W. Brown Deer Road,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at 8:30 a.m., local time, and any adjournments or postponements thereof, to
vote the shares of stock which the undersigned is entitled to vote at said Meeting or any
adjournment or postponements thereof hereby revoking any other Proxy executed by the undersigned
for such Meeting. The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Annual Meeting of
Shareholders and the Proxy Statement.
This Proxy when properly executed will be voted in the manner directed herein by the
undersigned shareholder. If no direction is made, the Proxy will be voted FOR the election
of the nominees listed below; FOR approval of
the Badger Meter, Inc. 2008 Restricted Stock Plan; and FOR
approval of the amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation
to declassify the Board of Directors. This Proxy is being
solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors.
COMPLETE AND SIGN BELOW. DETACH AND RETURN USING THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED.
BADGER METER, INC. 2008 ANNUAL MEETING
1. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS:
THREE-YEAR TERM: 1 Ronald H. Dix 2 Thomas J. Fischer 3 Richard A. Meeusen
FOR ___ WITHHOLD AUTHORITY ___
(INSTRUCTION: To withhold authority to vote for a nominee, write the nominees name in the space
provided below.)
2. Approval
of the Badger Meter, Inc. 2008 Restricted Stock Plan:
FOR ___ AGAINST ___ ABSTAIN ___
3. Approval
of the amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation to
declassify the Board of Directors:
FOR ___ AGAINST ___ ABSTAIN ___
4. In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may
properly come before the Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.
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Date , 2008 |
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Please sign exactly as your name appears
on your stock certificate as shown
directly to the left. Joint owners should
each sign personally. A corporation
should sign in full corporate name by duly
authorized officers. When signing as
attorney, executor, administrator, trustee
or guardian, give full title as such. |