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Essential Utilities, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2018 March (Form 10-Q)

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON DC  20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One) 

 QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934. 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018 

 TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934. 

For the transition period from_______________ to _______________

Commission File Number 1-6659 

AQUA AMERICA, INC. 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 





 

 

 

Pennsylvania

23-1702594

(State or other jurisdiction of

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

Identification No.)



 

762 W. Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania

19010 -3489

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)



 

(610) 527-8000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)



(Former Name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report.)



Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes   No 



Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes   No 



Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company, and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12(b)-2 of the Exchange Act.:   



 

Large accelerated filer 

Accelerated filer 

Non-accelerated filer  (do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company 

Emerging growth company  

 



If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 



Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes   No 

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of  

April 30,  2018:  177,897,654

  

 


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 



TABLE OF CONTENTS



 



Page

Part I – Financial Information



 

Item 1.  Financial Statements:

 



 

Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) – March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Net Income (unaudited) –
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017



 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited) –
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017



 

Consolidated Statements of Capitalization (unaudited) –
March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017



 

Consolidated Statement of Equity (unaudited) –
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018  



 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow (unaudited) –
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017



 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)



 

Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations

25 



 

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

29 



 

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

29 

 

Part II – Other Information

 

 

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings

29 



 

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

29 



 

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

30 



 

Item 6.  Exhibits

30 



 

Exhibit Index

31 



 

Signatures

32 







 

1


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts) 

(UNAUDITED)





 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 



 

March 31,

 

December 31,

Assets

 

2018

 

2017

Property, plant and equipment, at cost

 

$

7,088,016 

 

$

7,003,993 

Less:  accumulated depreciation

 

 

1,627,797 

 

 

1,604,133 

Net property, plant and equipment

 

 

5,460,219 

 

 

5,399,860 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

 

3,202 

 

 

4,204 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenues, net

 

 

91,818 

 

 

98,596 

Inventory, materials and supplies

 

 

15,290 

 

 

14,361 

Prepayments and other current assets

 

 

12,274 

 

 

12,542 

Assets held for sale

 

 

1,558 

 

 

1,543 

Total current assets

 

 

124,142 

 

 

131,246 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Regulatory assets

 

 

731,417 

 

 

713,971 

Deferred charges and other assets, net

 

 

38,696 

 

 

38,485 

Investment in joint venture

 

 

7,004 

 

 

6,671 

Goodwill

 

 

42,230 

 

 

42,230 

Total assets

 

$

6,403,708 

 

$

6,332,463 

Liabilities and Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock at $.50 par value, authorized 300,000,000 shares, issued 180,955,861 and 180,700,251 as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017

 

$

90,478 

 

$

90,350 

Capital in excess of par value

 

 

809,624 

 

 

807,135 

Retained earnings

 

 

1,147,828 

 

 

1,132,556 

Treasury stock, at cost, 3,058,248 and 2,986,308 shares as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017

 

 

(75,771)

 

 

(73,280)

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

 

 -

 

 

860 

Total stockholders' equity

 

 

1,972,159 

 

 

1,957,621 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

 

 

2,084,283 

 

 

2,029,358 

Less:  debt issuance costs

 

 

21,217 

 

 

21,605 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion, net of debt issuance costs

 

 

2,063,066 

 

 

2,007,753 

Commitments and contingencies (See Note 14)

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

 

103,832 

 

 

113,769 

Loans payable

 

 

20,342 

 

 

3,650 

Accounts payable

 

 

40,211 

 

 

59,165 

Book overdraft

 

 

12,685 

 

 

21,629 

Accrued interest

 

 

24,624 

 

 

21,359 

Accrued taxes

 

 

22,971 

 

 

23,764 

Other accrued liabilities

 

 

34,470 

 

 

41,152 

Total current liabilities

 

 

259,135 

 

 

284,488 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred credits and other liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits

 

 

786,014 

 

 

769,073 

Customers' advances for construction

 

 

90,599 

 

 

93,186 

Regulatory liabilities

 

 

543,449 

 

 

541,910 

Other

 

 

107,746 

 

 

107,341 

Total deferred credits and other liabilities

 

 

1,527,808 

 

 

1,511,510 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Contributions in aid of construction

 

 

581,540 

 

 

571,091 

Total liabilities and equity

 

$

6,403,708 

 

$

6,332,463 



 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements beginning on page 8 of this report.

 



 

2


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET INCOME

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)







 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Operating revenues

 

$

194,347 

 

$

187,787 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operations and maintenance

 

 

73,946 

 

 

67,890 

Depreciation

 

 

35,967 

 

 

33,837 

Amortization

 

 

130 

 

 

189 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

 

14,967 

 

 

14,737 

Total operating expenses

 

 

125,010 

 

 

116,653 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

 

69,337 

 

 

71,134 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Other expense (income):

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

23,471 

 

 

21,326 

Allowance for funds used during construction

 

 

(2,867)

 

 

(3,193)

Gain on sale of other assets

 

 

(196)

 

 

(269)

Equity (earnings) loss in joint venture

 

 

(382)

 

 

30 

Other

 

 

603 

 

 

1,238 

Income before income taxes

 

 

48,708 

 

 

52,002 

Provision for income tax (benefit) expense

 

 

(2,131)

 

 

2,930 

Net income

 

$

50,839 

 

$

49,072 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

0.29 

 

$

0.28 

Diluted

 

$

0.29 

 

$

0.28 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Average common shares outstanding during the period:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

177,801 

 

 

177,479 

Diluted

 

 

178,238 

 

 

177,969 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash dividends declared per common share

 

$

0.2047 

 

$

0.1913 



 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements beginning on page 8 of this report.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 





 

3


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

(In thousands of dollars) 

(UNAUDITED)

  





 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Net income

 

$

50,839 

 

$

49,072 

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized holding gain on investments, net of tax expense of $31 for the three months ended March 31, 2017

 

 

 -

 

 

58 

Comprehensive income

 

$

50,839 

 

$

49,130 



 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements beginning on page 8 of this report.

 

  



 

4


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CAPITALIZATION 

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts) 

(UNAUDITED)







 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

March 31,

 

December 31,



 

 

2018

 

2017

Stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Common stock, $.50 par value

 

 

$

90,478 

 

$

90,350 

    Capital in excess of par value

 

 

 

809,624 

 

 

807,135 

    Retained earnings

 

 

 

1,147,828 

 

 

1,132,556 

    Treasury stock, at cost

 

 

 

(75,771)

 

 

(73,280)

    Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

 

 -

 

 

860 

Total stockholders' equity

 

 

 

1,972,159 

 

 

1,957,621 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt of subsidiaries (substantially collateralized by utility plant):

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Range

Maturity Date Range

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.00% to  0.99%

2023 to 2033

 

 

4,148 

 

 

4,196 

1.00% to  1.99%

2019 to 2035

 

 

12,626 

 

 

12,914 

2.00% to  2.99%

2019 to 2033

 

 

18,817 

 

 

19,254 

3.00% to  3.99%

2019 to 2056

 

 

474,525 

 

 

475,232 

4.00% to  4.99%

2020 to 2057

 

 

631,513 

 

 

631,599 

5.00% to  5.99%

2019 to 2043

 

 

205,445 

 

 

205,578 

6.00% to  6.99%

2018 to 2036

 

 

44,000 

 

 

44,000 

7.00% to  7.99%

2022 to 2027

 

 

32,146 

 

 

32,335 

8.00% to  8.99%

2021 to 2025

 

 

5,968 

 

 

6,092 

9.00% to  9.99%

2018 to 2026

 

 

25,700 

 

 

25,700 

10.00% to 10.99%

2018

 

 

6,000 

 

 

6,000 



 

 

 

1,460,888 

 

 

1,462,900 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes payable to bank under revolving credit agreement, variable rate, due 2021

 

 

117,000 

 

 

60,000 

Unsecured notes payable:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bank notes at 1.975% and 2.48% due 2018 and 2019

 

 

100,000 

 

 

100,000 

Notes at 3.01% and 3.59% due 2027 and 2041

 

 

245,000 

 

 

245,000 

Notes ranging from 4.62% to 4.87%, due 2018 through 2024

 

 

122,800 

 

 

122,800 

Notes ranging from 5.20% to 5.95%, due 2018 through 2037

 

 

142,427 

 

 

152,427 

Total long-term debt

 

 

 

2,188,115 

 

 

2,143,127 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

 

 

103,832 

 

 

113,769 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

 

 

2,084,283 

 

 

2,029,358 

Less:  debt issuance costs

 

 

 

21,217 

 

 

21,605 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion, net of debt issuance costs

 

 

2,063,066 

 

 

2,007,753 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total capitalization

 

 

$

4,035,225 

 

$

3,965,374 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements beginning on page 8 of this report.

 



 



 

5


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EQUITY 

(In thousands of dollars)

(UNAUDITED)





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

Capital in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 



 

Common

 

Excess of

 

Retained

 

Treasury

 

Comprehensive

 

 

 



 

Stock

 

Par Value

 

Earnings

 

Stock

 

Income

 

Total

Balance at December 31, 2017

 

$

90,350 

 

$

807,135 

 

$

1,132,556 

 

$

(73,280)

 

$

860 

 

$

1,957,621 

Net income

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

50,839 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

50,839 

Dividends

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(36,386)

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(36,386)

Sale of stock (11,252 shares)

 

 

 

 

355 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

361 

Repurchase of stock (71,940 shares)         

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(2,491)

 

 

 -

 

 

(2,491)

Equity compensation plan (181,670 shares)

 

 

91 

 

 

(91)

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Exercise of stock options (62,688 shares)

 

 

31 

 

 

979 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,010 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 -

 

 

1,443 

 

 

(41)

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,402 

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - financial instruments

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

860 

 

 

 -

 

 

(860)

 

 

 -

Other  

 

 

 -

 

 

(197)

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(197)

Balance at March 31, 2018

 

$

90,478 

 

$

809,624 

 

$

1,147,828 

 

$

(75,771)

 

$

 -

 

$

1,972,159 



Refer to Note 15 - Recent Accounting Pronouncements for a discussion of the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - financial instruments

See notes to consolidated financial statements beginning on page 8 of this report.

 

  

 

 

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Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW 

(In thousands of dollars) 

(UNAUDITED)



  



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

50,839 

 

$

49,072 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

36,097 

 

 

34,026 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

(2,849)

 

 

2,681 

Provision for doubtful accounts

 

 

896 

 

 

1,111 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

1,444 

 

 

1,312 

Loss on sale of market-based business unit

 

 

 -

 

 

278 

Gain on sale of other assets

 

 

(196)

 

 

(269)

Net change in receivables, inventory and prepayments

 

 

5,402 

 

 

5,729 

Net change in payables, accrued interest, accrued taxes and other accrued liabilities

 

 

(996)

 

 

(4,519)

Pension and other postretirement benefits contributions

 

 

(5,217)

 

 

(7,711)

Other

 

 

2,934 

 

 

(507)

Net cash flows from operating activities

 

 

88,354 

 

 

81,203 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment additions, including the debt component of allowance for funds used during construction of $782 and $721

 

 

(105,136)

 

 

(94,562)

Acquisitions of utility systems and other, net

 

 

(190)

 

 

(220)

Net proceeds from the sale of market-based business unit and other assets

 

 

174 

 

 

639 

Other

 

 

(75)

 

 

(171)

Net cash flows used in investing activities

 

 

(105,227)

 

 

(94,314)

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Customers' advances and contributions in aid of construction

 

 

1,742 

 

 

1,585 

Repayments of customers' advances

 

 

(1,014)

 

 

(511)

Net proceeds of short-term debt

 

 

16,692 

 

 

21,197 

Proceeds from long-term debt

 

 

66,996 

 

 

117,879 

Repayments of long-term debt

 

 

(21,898)

 

 

(89,666)

Change in cash overdraft position

 

 

(8,944)

 

 

(2,403)

Proceeds from issuing common stock

 

 

361 

 

 

360 

Proceeds from exercised stock options

 

 

1,010 

 

 

1,536 

Repurchase of common stock

 

 

(2,491)

 

 

(2,053)

Dividends paid on common stock

 

 

(36,386)

 

 

(33,945)

Other

 

 

(197)

 

 

(206)

Net cash flows from financing activities

 

 

15,871 

 

 

13,773 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 

 

(1,002)

 

 

662 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

 

4,204 

 

 

3,763 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

3,202 

 

$

4,425 



Non-cash investing activities:

Property, plant and equipment additions purchased at the period end, but not yet paid for

 

$

23,629 

 

$

27,084 

Non-cash customer advances and contributions in aid of construction

 

 

4,979 

 

 

4,282 



 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements beginning on page 8 of this report.

 



 

7


 

Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation 



The accompanying consolidated balance sheets and statements of capitalization of Aqua America, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) at March 31, 2018, the consolidated statements of net income and comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 the consolidated statements of cash flow for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, and the consolidated statement of equity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 are unaudited, but reflect all adjustments, consisting of only normal recurring accruals, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present a  fair statement of its consolidated financial position, consolidated changes in equity, consolidated results of operations, and consolidated cash flow for the periods presented.  Because they cover interim periods, the statements and related notes to the financial statements do not include all disclosures and notes normally provided in annual financial statements and, therefore, should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.  The results of operations for interim periods may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year.  The December 31, 2017 consolidated balance sheet data presented herein was derived from the Company’s December 31, 2017 audited consolidated financial statements, but does not include all disclosures and notes normally provided in annual financial statements.  Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation in the consolidated statements of net income as a result of the adoption, in the first quarter of 2018, of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) accounting guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost (refer to Note 15 – Recent Accounting Pronouncements).



The preparation of financial statements often requires the selection of specific accounting methods and policies.  Further, significant estimates and judgments may be required in selecting and applying those methods and policies in the recognition of the assets and liabilities in its consolidated balance sheets, the revenues and expenses in its consolidated statements of net income, and the information that is contained in its summary of significant accounting policies and notes to consolidated financial statements.  Making these estimates and judgments requires the analysis of information concerning events that may not yet be complete and of facts and circumstances that may change over time.  Accordingly, actual amounts or future results can differ materially from those estimates that the Company includes currently in its consolidated financial statements, summary of significant accounting policies, and notes.



There have been no changes to the summary of significant accounting policies, other than as described in Note 2 – Revenue Recognition as a result of the adoption of a new accounting pronouncement adopted on January 1, 2018, previously identified in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.  

 

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Table of Contents

AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

Note 2 – Revenue Recognition



The Company recognizes  revenue as water and wastewater services are provided to our customers, which happens over time as the service is delivered and the performance obligation is satisfied.  The Company’s utility revenues recognized in an accounting period include amounts billed to customers on a cycle basis and unbilled amounts based on estimated usage from the last billing to the end of the accounting period.  Unbilled amounts are calculated by deriving estimates based on average usage of the prior monthThe Company’s actual results could differ from these estimates, which would result in operating revenues being adjusted in the period that the revision to our estimates is determined.  Unbilled amounts are included in accounts receivable and unbilled revenues, net on the consolidated balance sheet.   



Generally, payment is due within 30 days once a bill is issued to a customer.  Sales tax and other taxes we collect on behalf of government authorities, concurrent with our revenue-producing activities, are primarily excluded from revenue.  The Company has determined that its revenue recognition is not materially different under the FASB’s new accounting standard for revenue from contracts with customer, and has not made any changes to our accounting policy.  The Company’s revenues are being reported identical to how they were reported under the FASB’s former accounting standard for revenue recognitionThe following table presents our revenues disaggregated by major source and customer class:







 

 

 

 

 

 



Three Months Ended



March 31,2018



Water Revenues

Wastewater Revenues

Other Revenues

Regulated:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Residential

$

113,837 

$

17,532 

$

 -

Commercial

 

30,342 

 

2,888 

 

 -

Fire protection

 

7,938 

 

 -

 

 -

Industrial

 

6,360 

 

463 

 

 -

Other water

 

11,021 

 

 -

 

 -

Other wastewater

 

 -

 

791 

 

 -

Other utility

 

 -

 

 -

 

2,335 

Regulated segment total

 

169,498 

 

21,674 

 

2,335 

Other and eliminations

 

 -

 

 -

 

840 

Consolidated

$

169,498 

$

21,674 

$

3,175 



 

 

 

 

 

 



Regulated Segment Revenues – These revenues are composed of three main categories:  water, wastewater, and other.  Water revenues represent revenues earned for supplying customers with water service.  Wastewater revenues represent revenues earned for treating wastewater and releasing it into the water supply.  Other revenues are associated fees that relate to the regulated business but are not water and wastewater revenues.  See description below for a discussion on the performance obligation for each of these revenue streams.



9


 

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

Tariff Revenues – These revenues are categorized by customer class:  residential, commercial, fire protection, industrial, and other water and other wastewater.  The rates that generate these revenues are approved by the respective state utility commission, and revenues are billed cyclically and accrued for when unbilled.  Other water and other wastewater revenues consist primarily of fines, penalties, surcharges, and availability lot fees.  Our performance obligation for tariff revenues is to provide potable water or wastewater treatment service to customers.  This performance obligation is satisfied over time as the services are rendered.



Other Utility Revenues – Other utility revenues represent revenues earned primarily from:  antenna revenues, which represent fees received from telecommunication operators that have put cellular antennas on our water towers, operation and maintenance and billing contracts, which represent fees earned from municipalities for our operation of their water or wastewater treatment services or performing billing services, and fees earned from developers for accessing our water mains.  The performances obligations vary for these revenues, but all are primarily recognized over time as the service is delivered.



Other and EliminationsOther and eliminations consist of our market-based revenues, which comprises:   Aqua Infrastructure and Aqua Resources (described below), and intercompany eliminations for revenue billed between our subsidiaries. 



Aqua Infrastructure is the holding company for our 49% investment in a joint venture that operates a private pipeline system to supply raw water to natural gas well drilling operations in the Marcellus Shale of north central Pennsylvania.  The joint venture earns revenues through providing non-utility raw water supply services to companies which enter into a water supply contract in the natural gas drilling industry.  The performance obligation is to deliver non-potable water to its customers.  Aqua Infrastructure’s share of the revenues recognized by the joint venture is reflected, net, in equity earnings in joint venture on our consolidated statements of net income.   



Aqua Resources earns revenues by providing non-regulated water and wastewater services through operating and maintenance contracts, and third party water and sewer line repair service.  The performance obligations are performing agreed upon services in the contract, most commonly operation of third party water or wastewater treatment services, or billing services, or allowing the use of our logo to a third party water and sewer line repair service.  Revenues are primarily recognized over time as service is delivered.





Note 3 –  Goodwill 



The following table summarizes the changes in the Company’s goodwill, by business segment:

 





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Regulated

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Segment

 

Other

 

Consolidated

Balance at December 31, 2017

 

$

37,389 

 

$

4,841 

 

$

42,230 

Goodwill acquired

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Balance at March 31, 2018

 

$

37,389 

 

$

4,841 

 

$

42,230 



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 







  

Note 4 –  Acquisitions 



During the first three months of 2018, the Company completed three acquisitions of water and wastewater utility systems in various states adding 448 customers.  The total purchase price of these utility systems consisted of $190 in cash.  The purchase price allocation for these acquisition consisted primarily of acquired property, plant and equipment.  The pro forma effect of the businesses acquired is not material either individually or collectively to the Company’s results of operations.



During 2017, the Company completed four acquisitions of water and wastewater utility systems in various states adding 1,003 customers.  The total purchase price of these utility systems consisted of $5,860 in cash, which resulted in $72 of goodwill being recorded.  The pro forma effect of the businesses acquired is not material either individually or collectively to the Company’s results of operations. 



As part of the Company’s growth-through-acquisition strategy, the Company has entered into purchase agreements to acquire the water or wastewater utility system assets of six municipalities for a total combined purchase price in cash of $150,700, which we plan to finance by the issuance of long-term debt.  The purchase price for these pending acquisitions is subject to certain adjustments at closing, and the pending acquisitions are subject to regulatory approvals, including the final determination of the fair value of the rate base acquired.  Closings for these acquisitions are expected to occur by the end of 2018, subject to the timing of the regulatory approval process.  These acquisitions are expected to add approximately 16,325 customers in two of the states that the Company operates in.     



Note 5 –  Assets Held for Sale



In the first quarter of 2017, the Company decided to market for sale a water system that serves approximately 265 customersThis water system is reported as assets held for sale in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.







]

 

Note 6  Financial Instruments 

 

The Company follows the FASB’s accounting guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures, which defines fair value and establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities.  That framework provides a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value.  The hierarchy gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements).  The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:



·

Level 1:  unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access; 

 

·

Level 2:  inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted market prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in non-active markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; or 

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

 

·

Level 3:  inputs that are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement. 



The asset’s or liability’s fair value measurement level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.  Valuation techniques used need to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.  There have been no changes in the valuation techniques used to measure fair value, or asset or liability transfers between the levels of the fair value hierarchy for the quarter ended March 31, 2018



Financial instruments are recorded at carrying value in the financial statements and approximate fair value as of the dates presented.  The fair value of these instruments is disclosed below in accordance with current accounting guidance related to financial instruments. 



The fair value of loans payable is determined based on its carrying amount and utilizing Level 1 methods and assumptions.    As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the carrying amount of the Company’s loans payable was $20,342 and $3,650, respectively, which equates to their estimated fair value.  The Company’s assets underlying the deferred compensation and non-qualified pension plans are determined by the fair value of mutual funds, which are based on quoted market prices from active markets utilizing Level 1 methods and assumptions.  As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the carrying amount of these securities was $21,576 and $21,776,  which equates to their fair value, and is reported in the consolidated balance sheet in deferred charges and other assetsThe fair value of cash and cash equivalents, which is comprised of uninvested cash, is determined based on the net asset value per unit utilizing Level 1 methods and assumptions.  As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the carrying amounts of the Company's cash and cash equivalents was $3,202 and $4,204, respectively, which equates to their fair value.



Unrealized gain and losses on equity securities held in conjunction with our non-qualified pension plan is as follows:







 

 

 



 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

Net loss recognized during the period on equity securities

 

$

21 

Less:  net gain / loss recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period

 

 

 -

Unrealized loss recognized during the reporting period on equity securities still held at the reporting date

 

$

21 

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 



The net loss recognized on equity securities is presented on the consolidated statements of net income on the line item “Other.”  Additionally, the unrealized gain recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2017, was reported on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. 



The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s long-term debt is as follows:



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

March 31,

 

December 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Carrying amount

 

$

2,188,115 

 

$

2,143,127 

Estimated fair value

 

 

2,235,447 

 

 

2,262,785 

 



The fair value of long-term debt has been determined by discounting the future cash flows using current market interest rates for similar financial instruments of the same duration utilizing Level 2 methods and assumptions. 



The Company’s customers’ advances for construction have a carrying value of $90,599 as of March 31, 2018, and $93,186 as of December 31, 2017.  Their relative fair values cannot be accurately estimated because future refund payments depend on several variables, including new customer connections, customer consumption levels, and future rates.  Portions of these non-interest bearing instruments are payable annually through 2028 and amounts not paid by the respective contract expiration dates become non-refundable.  The fair value of these amounts would, however, be less than their carrying value due to the non-interest bearing feature.

 

Note 7  –  Net Income per Common Share 

 

Basic net income per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.  Diluted net income per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and potentially dilutive shares.  The dilutive effect of employee stock-based compensation is included in the computation of diluted net income per common share.  The dilutive effect of stock-based compensation is calculated using the treasury stock method and expected proceeds upon exercise or issuance of the stock-based compensation.  The treasury stock method assumes that the proceeds from stock-based compensation are used to purchase the Company’s common stock at the average market price during the period.  The following table summarizes the shares, in thousands, used in computing basic and diluted net income per common share: 





 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Average common shares outstanding during the period for basic computation

 

177,801 

 

177,479 

Dilutive effect of employee stock-based compensation

 

437 

 

490 

Average common shares outstanding during the period for diluted computation

 

178,238 

 

177,969 



 

 

 

 



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, all of the Company’s employee stock options were included in the calculations of diluted net income per share as the calculated cost to exercise the stock options was less than the average market price of the Company’s common stock during these periods.

 

Note 8  –  Stock-based Compensation 

 

Under the Company’s 2009 Omnibus Equity Compensation Plan, as amended as of February 27, 2014 (the “2009 Plan”), as approved by the Company’s shareholders to replace the 2004 Equity Compensation Plan (the “2004 Plan”), stock options, stock units, stock awards, stock appreciation rights, dividend equivalents, and other stock-based awards may be granted to employees, non-employee directors, and consultants and advisors.  No further grants may be made under the 2004 Plan.  The 2009 Plan authorizes 6,250,000 shares for issuance under the plan.  A maximum of 3,125,000 shares under the 2009 Plan may be issued pursuant to stock awards, stock units and other stock-based awards, subject to adjustment as provided in the 2009 Plan.  During any calendar year, no individual may be granted (i) stock options and stock appreciation rights under the 2009 Plan for more than 500,000 shares of Company stock in the aggregate or (ii) stock awards, stock units or other stock-based awards under the 2009 Plan for more than 500,000 shares of Company stock in the aggregate, subject to adjustment as provided in the 2009 Plan.  Awards to employees and consultants under the 2009 Plan are made by a committee of the Board of Directors of the Company, except that with respect to awards to the Chief Executive Officer, the committee recommends those awards for approval by the non-employee directors of the Board of Directors.  In the case of awards to non-employee directors, the Board of Directors makes such awards.  At March 31, 2018,  3,454,922 shares were still available for issuance under the 2009 Plan.   

 

Performance Share Units – A performance share unit (“PSU”) represents the right to receive a share of the Company’s common stock if specified performance goals are met over the three-year performance period specified in the grant, subject to exceptions through the respective vesting period, generally three years.  Each grantee is granted a target award of PSUs, and may earn between 0% and 200% of the target amount depending on the Company’s performance against the performance goals.  The following table provides compensation costs for stock-based compensation related to PSUs: 





 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses

 

$

859 

 

$

870 

Income tax benefit

 

 

241 

 

 

353 

 

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

The following table summarizes the PSU transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2018:   





 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

Number

 

Weighted



 

 

of

 

Average



 

 

Share Units

 

Fair Value

Nonvested share units at beginning of period

 

 

452,333 

 

$

26.16 

Granted

 

 

87,593 

 

 

37.65 

Performance criteria adjustment

 

 

(33,109)

 

 

29.71 

Forfeited

 

 

(5,522)

 

 

29.59 

Share units vested in prior period and issued in current period

 

 

9,400 

 

 

26.54 

Share units issued

 

 

(136,081)

 

 

31.70 

Nonvested share units at end of period

 

 

374,614 

 

 

26.48 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A portion of the fair value of PSUs was estimated at the grant date based on the probability of satisfying the market-based conditions using the Monte Carlo valuation method, which assesses probabilities of various outcomes of market conditions.  The other portion of the fair value of the PSUs is based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock at the grant date, regardless of whether the market-based condition is satisfied.  The per unit weighted-average fair value at the date of grant for PSUs granted during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 was $37.65 and $30.79, respectively.  The fair value of each PSU grant is amortized monthly into compensation expense on a straight-line basis over their respective vesting periods, generally 36 months.  The accrual of compensation costs is based on the Company’s estimate of the final expected value of the award, and is adjusted as required for the portion based on the performance-based condition.  The Company assumes that forfeitures will be minimal, and recognizes forfeitures as they occur, which results in a reduction in compensation expense.  As the payout of the PSUs includes dividend equivalents, no separate dividend yield assumption is required in calculating the fair value of the PSUs.  The recording of compensation expense for PSUs has no impact on net cash flows.   



Restricted Stock UnitsA restricted stock unit (“RSU”) represents the right to receive a share of the Company’s common stock.  RSUs are eligible to be earned at the end of a specified restricted period, generally three years, beginning on the date of grant.  The Company assumes that forfeitures will be minimal, and recognizes forfeitures as they occur, which results in a reduction in compensation expense.  As the payout of the RSUs includes dividend equivalents, no separate dividend yield assumption is required in calculating the fair value of the RSUs.  The following table provides the compensation cost and income tax benefit for stock-based compensation related to RSUs:



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses

 

$

351 

 

$

281 

Income tax benefit

 

 

100 

 

 

116 

 



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

The following table summarizes the RSU transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2018





 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

Number

 

Weighted



 

 

of

 

Average



 

 

Stock Units

 

Fair Value

Nonvested stock units at beginning of period

 

 

116,787 

 

$

29.46 

Granted

 

 

54,073 

 

 

34.91 

Stock units vested in prior period and issued in current period

 

 

1,467 

 

 

31.47 

Stock units vested and issued

 

 

(42,836)

 

 

26.39 

Forfeited

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Nonvested stock units at end of period

 

 

129,491 

 

 

31.78 

 



The per unit weighted-average fair value at the date of grant for RSUs granted during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 was $34.91 and $30.37, respectively.   



Stock Options –  A stock option represents the option to purchase a number of shares of common stock of the Company as specified in the stock option grant agreement at the exercise price per share as determined by the closing market price of our common stock on the grant dateStock options are exercisable in installments of 33% annually, starting one year from the grant date and expire 10 years from the grant date.    The fair value of each stock option is amortized into compensation expense using the graded-vesting method, which results in the recognition of compensation costs over the requisite service period for each separately vesting tranche of the stock options as though the stock options were, in substance, multiple stock option grants.  The following table provides the compensation cost and income tax benefit for stock-based compensation related to stock options:



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses

 

$

94 

 

$

30 

Income tax benefit

 

 

58 

 

 

92 



 

 

 

 

 

 

The fair value of options was estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  The following assumptions were used in the application of this valuation model:





 

 



2018

2017

Expected term (years)

5.46  5.45 

Risk-free interest rate

2.72%  2.01% 

Expected volatility

17.2%  17.7% 

Dividend yield

2.37%  2.51% 

Grant date fair value per option

$       5.10

$       4.07



Historical information was the principal basis for the selection of the expected term and dividend yield.  The expected volatility is based on a weighted-average combination of historical and implied volatilities over a time period that approximates the expected term of the option.  The risk-free interest rate was

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

selected based upon the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the expected term of the option.



The following table summarizes stock option transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2018:



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

Weighted

 

Weighted

 

 

 



 

 

 

Average

 

Average

 

Aggregate



 

 

 

Exercise

 

Remaining

 

Intrinsic



 

Shares

 

Price

 

Life (years)

 

Value

Outstanding at beginning of period

 

364,932 

 

$

19.83 

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

160,859 

 

 

34.51 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

(2,371)

 

 

30.47 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired / Cancelled

 

(41)

 

 

30.47 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

(62,688)

 

 

16.11 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at end of period

 

460,691 

 

$

25.40 

 

6.2 

 

$

4,060 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at end of period

 

225,594 

 

$

17.24 

 

2.6 

 

$

3,794 

 



Stock Awards –      Stock awards represent the issuance of the Company’s common stock, without restriction.  The issuance of stock awards results in compensation expense which is equal to the fair market value of the stock on the grant date, and is expensed immediately upon grant.  The following table provides the compensation cost and income tax benefit for stock-based compensation related to stock awards:









 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses

 

$

140 

 

$

131 

Income tax benefit

 

 

40 

 

 

54 



The following table summarizes stock award transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2018:







 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 



 

Number

 

Weighted



 

of

 

Average



 

Stock Awards

 

Fair Value

Nonvested stock awards at beginning of period

 

 -

 

$

 -

Granted

 

4,130 

 

 

33.90 

Vested

 

(4,130)

 

 

33.90 

Nonvested stock awards at end of period

 

 -

 

$

 -



The per unit weighted-average fair value at the date of grant for stock awards granted during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 was $33.90 and $32.15, respectively.

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

 

Note 9  –  Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits   

 

The Company maintains a qualified defined benefit pension plan (the “Pension Plan”), a nonqualified pension plan, and other postretirement benefit plans for certain of its employees.  The net periodic benefit cost is based on estimated values and an extensive use of assumptions about the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, the rate of future compensation increases received by the Company’s employees, mortality, turnover, and medical costs.  The following tables provide the components of net periodic benefit cost:



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Pension Benefits



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Service cost

 

$

812 

 

$

794 

Interest cost

 

 

2,874 

 

 

3,108 

Expected return on plan assets

 

 

(4,553)

 

 

(4,270)

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

132 

 

 

145 

Amortization of actuarial loss

 

 

1,823 

 

 

2,001 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

1,088 

 

$

1,778 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Other



 

Postretirement Benefits



 

 

Three Months Ended



 

 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Service cost

 

$

262 

 

$

255 

Interest cost

 

 

708 

 

 

737 

Expected return on plan assets

 

 

(677)

 

 

(647)

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

(127)

 

 

(127)

Amortization of actuarial loss

 

 

296 

 

 

291 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

462 

 

$

509 



The components of net periodic benefit cost other than service cost are presented on the consolidated statements of net income on the line item “Other.”  



The Company made cash contributions of $5,198 to its Pension Plan during the first three months of 2018,  and intends to make additional cash contributions of $7,286 to the Pension Plan during the remainder of 2018

 

Note 10 –  Water and Wastewater Rates 

 

During the first three months of 2018, the Company’s operating divisions in Illinois and Ohio were granted base rate increases designed to increase total operating revenues on an annual basis by $8,640On April 6, 2018, the base rate case in Illinois was petitioned for a rehearing;  however, this petition was

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

denied on April 19, 2018The other parties to the case have thirty days to file an appeal.  The approved rates, for which we have billed $300 to date in March 2018, are in effect, but could be subject to refund if an appeal is grantedFurther, during the first three months of 2018, the Company’s operating divisions in Pennsylvania and North Carolina received approval to bill infrastructure rehabilitation surcharges designed to increase total operating revenues on an annual basis by $9,731.



As of February 10, 2018, the Company has been billing interim rates in Virginia, which has a base rate case filing in progress.  As of March 31, 2018, $821 of billings is subject to refund pending the conclusion of the rate case.  

 

Note 11 –  Taxes Other than Income Taxes 

 

The following table provides the components of taxes other than income taxes:



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Property

 

$

6,749 

 

$

6,785 

Gross receipts, excise and franchise

 

 

3,265 

 

 

3,175 

Payroll

 

 

3,275 

 

 

3,124 

Regulatory assessments

 

 

627 

 

 

629 

Pumping fees

 

 

991 

 

 

944 

Other

 

 

60 

 

 

80 

Total taxes other than income

 

$

14,967 

 

$

14,737 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 





Note 12 –  Segment Information 

 

The Company has ten operating segments and one reportable segment.  The Regulated segment, the Company’s single reportable segment, is comprised of eight operating segments representing its water and wastewater regulated utility companies which are organized by the states where the Company provides water and wastewater services.  These operating segments are aggregated into one reportable segment because each of these operating segments has the following similarities: economic characteristics, nature of services, production processes, customers, water distribution or wastewater collection methods, and the nature of the regulatory environment.



Two operating segments are included within the Other category below.  These segments are not quantitatively significant and are comprised of Aqua Infrastructure and Aqua Resources.  Aqua Infrastructure provides non-utility raw water supply services for firms in the natural gas drilling industry.    Aqua Resources provides water and wastewater service through operating and maintenance contracts with municipal authorities and other parties close to its utility companies’ service territories; and offers, through a third party, water and sewer line repair service and protection solutions to households.  In addition to these segments, Other is comprised of other business activities not included in the reportable segment, including corporate costs that have not been allocated to the Regulated segment and intersegment eliminations.  Corporate costs include general and administrative expenses, and interest expense.   



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

The following table presents information about the Company’s reportable segment:



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Three Months Ended

 

Three Months Ended



 

March 31, 2018

 

March 31, 2017



 

Regulated

 

Other

 

Consolidated

 

Regulated

 

Other

 

Consolidated

Operating revenues

 

$

193,507 

 

$

840 

 

$

194,347 

 

$

186,349 

 

$

1,438 

 

$

187,787 

Operations and maintenance expense

 

 

71,303 

 

 

2,643 

 

 

73,946 

 

 

66,272 

 

 

1,618 

 

 

67,890 

Depreciation

 

 

35,958 

 

 

 

 

35,967 

 

 

33,666 

 

 

171 

 

 

33,837 

Amortization

 

 

88 

 

 

42 

 

 

130 

 

 

209 

 

 

(20)

 

 

189 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

72,058 

 

 

(2,721)

 

 

69,337 

 

 

72,305 

 

 

(1,171)

 

 

71,134 

Interest expense, net

 

 

21,708 

 

 

1,763 

 

 

23,471 

 

 

19,777 

 

 

1,549 

 

 

21,326 

Allowance for funds used during construction

 

 

2,867 

 

 

 -

 

 

2,867 

 

 

3,193 

 

 

 -

 

 

3,193 

Income tax expense (benefit)

 

 

(643)

 

 

(1,488)

 

 

(2,131)

 

 

3,856 

 

 

(926)

 

 

2,930 

Net income (loss)

 

 

54,027 

 

 

(3,188)

 

 

50,839 

 

 

50,896 

 

 

(1,824)

 

 

49,072 

Capital expenditures

 

 

105,136 

 

 

 -

 

 

105,136 

 

 

94,409 

 

 

153 

 

 

94,562 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 







 

 

 

 

 

 



 

March 31,

 

December 31,



 

2018

 

2017

Total assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Regulated

 

$

6,321,372 

 

$

6,236,109 

  Other

 

 

82,336 

 

 

96,354 

  Consolidated

 

$

6,403,708 

 

$

6,332,463 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note 13 –  Commitments and Contingencies 

 

The Company is routinely involved in various disputes, claims, lawsuits and other regulatory and legal matters, including both asserted and unasserted legal claims, in the ordinary course of business.  The status of each such matter, referred to herein as a loss contingency, is reviewed and assessed in accordance with applicable accounting rules regarding the nature of the matter, the likelihood that a loss will be incurred, and the amounts involved.  As of March 31, 2018, the aggregate amount of $20,231 is accrued for loss contingencies and is reported in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as other accrued liabilities and other liabilities.  These accruals represent management’s best estimate of probable loss (as defined in the accounting guidance) for loss contingencies or the low end of a range of losses if no single probable loss can be estimated.  For some loss contingencies, the Company is unable to estimate the amount of the probable loss or range of probable losses.  While the final outcome of these loss contingencies cannot be predicted with certainty, and unfavorable outcomes could negatively impact the Company, at this time in the opinion of management, the final resolution of these matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.  Further, the Company has insurance coverage for certain of these loss contingencies, and as of March 31, 2018, estimates that approximately $8,231 of the amount accrued for these matters are probable of recovery through insurance, which amount is also reported in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as deferred charges and other assets, net.



Although the results of legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, there are no pending legal proceedings to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or to which any of its properties is

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

the subject that are material or are expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.



In addition to the aforementioned loss contingencies, the Company self-insures its employee medical benefit program, and maintains stop-loss coverage to limit the exposure arising from these claims.  The Company’s reserve for these claims totaled $1,451 at March 31, 2018 and represents a reserve for unpaid claim costs, including an estimate for the cost of incurred but not reported claims.  

 

Note 14 –  Income Taxes 

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company’s Federal net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforward decreased by $6,760.  In addition, during the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company’s state NOL carryforward increased by $3,866.  As of March 31, 2018, the balance of the Company’s Federal NOL was $56,542.  The Company believes its Federal NOL carryforward is more likely than not to be recovered and requires no valuation allowance.  As of March 31, 2018, the balance of the Company’s gross state NOL was $631,124, a portion of which is offset by a valuation allowance because the Company does not believe the state NOLs are more likely than not to be realized.  The Company’s Federal and state NOL carryforwards begin to expire in 2032 and 2023, respectively.  The Company’s Federal and state NOL carryforwards are reduced by an unrecognized tax position, on a gross basis, of $64,814 and $85,380, respectively.  The amounts of the Company’s Federal and state NOL carryforwards prior to being reduced by the unrecognized tax positions were $121,356 and $716,504 respectively.  The Company records its unrecognized tax benefit as a reduction to its deferred income tax liability. 



In accordance with a 2012 settlement agreement with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, Aqua Pennsylvania expenses, for tax purposes, qualifying utility asset improvement costs, which results in a substantial reduction in income tax expense and greater net income and cash flows.  The Company’s effective income tax rate for the first quarter of 2018 and 2017 was -4.4% and 5.6%, respectively. 



As of March 31, 2018,  the total gross unrecognized tax benefit was $18,143.   As a result of the regulatory treatment afforded for qualifying infrastructure improvements in Pennsylvania,  $24,834, if recognized, would affect the Company’s effective tax rate.  At December 31, 2017, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $17,583.    



Accounting rules for uncertain tax positions specify that tax positions for which the timing of resolution is uncertain should be classified as long-term liabilities.  Judgment is required in evaluating the Company’s uncertain tax positions and determining the provision for income taxes.  Management believes that an adequate provision has been made for any adjustments that may result from tax examinations.  Although the timing of income tax audit resolutions and negotiations with taxing authorities is highly uncertain, the Company does not anticipate a significant change to the total amount of unrecognized income tax benefits within the next 12 months.



On December 22, 2017, President Trump signed the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Acts” (the “TCJA”) into law.  Substantially all of the provisions of the TCJA are effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017.  The TCJA includes significant changes to the Code and the taxation of business entities, and includes specific provisions related to regulated public utilities.  Significant changes that

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

impact the Company included in the TCJA are a reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective January 1, 2018, and a limitation of the utilization of NOLs arising after December 31, 2017 to 80% of taxable income with an indefinite carryforward.  The specific TCJA provisions related to our regulated entities generally allow for the continued deductibility of interest expense, the elimination of full expensing for tax purposes of certain property acquired after September 27, 2017 and the continuation of certain rate normalization requirements for accelerated depreciation benefits.  Our market-based companies still qualify for 100% deductibility of qualifying property acquired after September 27, 2017.



In accordance with the FASB’s accounting guidance for income taxes, the tax effects of changes in tax laws must be recognized in the period in which the law is enacted, or December 22, 2017 for the TCJA.  Additionally, deferred tax assets and liabilities are required to be measured at the enacted tax rate expected to apply when temporary differences are to be realized or settled.  Thus, at the date of enactment, the Company’s deferred taxes were re-measured based upon the new tax rate.  For our regulated entities, the change in deferred taxes is recorded as either an offset to a regulatory asset or liability and may be subject to refund to customers.  In instances where the deferred tax balances are not in ratemaking, such as the Company’s market-based operations, the change in deferred taxes is recorded as an adjustment to our deferred tax provision.



The staff of the SEC has recognized the complexity of reflecting the impacts of the TCJA, and on December 22, 2017 issued guidance, which clarifies accounting for income taxes if information is not yet available or complete and provides for up to a one year period in which to complete the required analyses and accounting (the measurement period).  The guidance describes three scenarios (or “buckets”) associated with a company’s status of accounting for income tax reform:  (1) a company is complete with its accounting for certain effects of tax reform, (2) a company is able to determine a reasonable estimate for certain effects of tax reform and records that estimate as a provisional amount, or (3) a company is not able to determine a reasonable estimate and therefore continues to apply the FASB’s accounting guidance, based on the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately prior to the TCJA being enacted.



The Company has completed or has made a reasonable estimate for the measurement and accounting of the effect of the TCJA which were reflected in the December 31, 2017 financial statements, which resulted in a decrease to the accumulated deferred income tax liability of $303,320.  Additionally, due to the reduction in the Company’s corporate income tax rate,  in the first quarter of 2018, the Company reserved $2,532 for amounts expected to be refundable to utility customers.  During the first quarter of 2018, in Illinois and Virginia, the Company’s base rates have been adjusted to reflect the lower corporate income tax rate, and Texas and New Jersey implemented adjusted tariff rates in the second quarter of 2018.            



One of our states, Pennsylvania, has not yet issued an accounting or procedural order addressing how the TCJA changes are to be reflected in our utility customer rates.  As of December 31, 2017, the Company had provisionally estimated that $175,108 of deferred income tax liabilities for our Pennsylvania subsidiary will be a regulatory liability.  Additionally, two operating divisions in Ohio operate under locally-negotiated contractual rates with their respective counties, and it is expected that negotiations will result in a contract that will return to customers the effects of the reduction in the corporate net income tax rate under the TCJA; however, these negotiations have not yet started.  As of December 31, 2017, the Company had provisionally estimated that $9,419 of deferred income tax liabilities for these two

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

divisions will be a regulatory liability.  Overall, the Company has applied a reasonable interpretation of the impact of the TCJA and a reasonable estimate of the regulatory resolution.  Further clarification of the TCJA and regulatory resolution may change the amounts estimated of the deferred income tax provision and the accumulated deferred income tax liability.      



The Company’s regulated operations accounting for income taxes are impacted by the FASB’s accounting guidance for regulated operations.  Reductions in accumulated deferred income tax balances due to the reduction in the Federal corporate income tax rates to 21% under the provisions of the TCJA will result in amounts previously collected from utility customers for these deferred taxes to be refundable to such customers, generally through reductions in future rates.  The TCJA includes provisions that stipulate how these excess deferred taxes related to certain accelerated tax depreciation deduction benefits are to be passed back to customers.  Potential refunds of other deferred taxes will be determined by our state regulators.  Our state regulatory commissions have or are in the process of issuing procedural orders directing how the tax law changes are to be reflected in our utility customer rates. 

 

Note 15 –  Recent Accounting Pronouncements   



In March 2017, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost (net benefit cost).  Historically, net benefit cost is reported as an employee cost within operating income, net of amounts capitalized.  The guidance requires the bifurcation of net benefit cost.  The service cost component will be presented with other employee compensation costs in operating income and the other components of net benefit cost will be reported separately outside of operating income, and will not be eligible for capitalization.  The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within that reporting period, and is to be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost, and on a prospective basis for the capitalization of only the service cost component of net benefit cost.  On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the updated guidance, which did not have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position, and resulted in the reclassification, for the three months ended March 31, 2017, of $1,238 for the other components of net benefit cost from operations and maintenance expense to other in the consolidated statements of net income.



In February 2016, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on accounting for leases, which requires lessees to establish a right-of-use asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months.  For income statement purposes, leases will be classified as either operating or finance.  Operating leases will result in straight-line expense while finance leases will result in a front-loaded expense pattern.  The updated accounting guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption available.  The Company is evaluating the requirements of the updated guidance to determine the impact of adoption. 



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

(UNAUDITED)

 

In January 2016, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities, which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments, including the requirement to measure certain equity investments at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income.  The updated guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 31, 2017.  On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the updated guidance, which did not have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position, and resulted in the recognition of $860 of previous unrealized gains, which was recorded as an adjustment to beginning retained earnings (refer to the presentation of “cumulative effect of change in accounting principle – financial instruments” on the Company’s consolidated statement of equity).  



In May 2014, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on recognizing revenue from contracts with customers, which outlines a single comprehensive model that an entity will apply to determine the measurement of revenue and timing of recognition.  The underlying principle is that an entity will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.  The updated guidance also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to fulfill a contract.  The updated guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods therein, using either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective approach reflecting the application of the updated guidance in each prior reporting period, or (ii) a modified retrospective approach with the cumulative effect of initially adopting the updated guidance recognized through retained earnings at the date of adoption.  In 2016, the Company performed an evaluation of the requirements of the updated guidance and believes that the impact of adoption will not result in a material change in the Company’s measurement of revenue.  In 2017, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”) power and utility entities revenue recognition task force determined that contributions in aid of construction are not in the scope of the new standard, and submitted its recommendation to the AICPA’s revenue recognition working group for approval.  The Company implemented the updated guidance using the modified retrospective approach on January 1, 2018, which did not result in a change in the Company’s measurement of revenue, and reached the following conclusions:



·

The Company’s tariff sale contracts, including those with lower credit quality customers, are generally deemed to be probable of collection, and thus the timing of revenue recognition will continue to be concurrent with the delivery of water and wastewater services, consistent with our current practice.

·

Contributions in aid of construction are outside of the scope of the standard, and will continue to be accounted for as a noncurrent liability.

 



 

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

 MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF 

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

 

Item 2 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 

 

Forward-looking Statements 

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and other sections of this Quarterly Report contain, in addition to historical information, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  These forward-looking statements address, among other things: the projected impact of various legal proceedings; the projected effects of recent accounting pronouncements; prospects, plans, objectives, expectations and beliefs of management, as well as information contained in this report where statements are preceded by, followed by or include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “future,” “potential,” “probably,” “predictions,” “intends,” “will,” “continue,” “in the event” or the negative of such terms or similar expressions.  Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions concerning future events, and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements.  These risks and uncertainties include, among others: the effects of regulation, abnormal weather, changes in capital requirements and funding, acquisitions, changes to the capital markets, and our ability to assimilate acquired operations, as well as those risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in such report.  As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.  We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.     

 

General Information 

 

Aqua America, Inc. (“we”, “us”, “our” or the “Company”), a Pennsylvania corporation, is the holding company for regulated utilities providing water or wastewater services to what we estimate to be almost three million people in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, Illinois, North Carolina, New Jersey, Indiana, and Virginia.  Our largest operating subsidiary, Aqua Pennsylvania, provides water or wastewater services to approximately one-half of the total number of people we serve, who are located in the suburban areas in counties north and west of the City of Philadelphia and in 27 other counties in Pennsylvania.  Our other regulated utility subsidiaries provide similar services in seven other states.  In addition, the Company’s market-based activities are conducted through Aqua Infrastructure, LLC and Aqua Resources, Inc.  Aqua Infrastructure provides non-utility raw water supply services for firms in the natural gas drilling industry.    Aqua Resources provides water and wastewater service through operating and maintenance contracts with municipal authorities and other parties close to our utility companies’ service territories; and offers, through a third party, water and wastewater line repair service and protection solutions to households.   



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

 MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF 

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

 

Aqua America, Inc., which prior to its name change in 2004 was known as Philadelphia Suburban Corporation, was formed in 1968 as a holding company for its primary subsidiary, Aqua Pennsylvania, formerly known as Philadelphia Suburban Water Company.  In the early 1990s, we embarked on a growth-through-acquisition strategy focused on water and wastewater operations.  Our most significant transactions to date have been the merger with Consumers Water Company in 1999, the acquisition of the regulated water and wastewater operations of AquaSource, Inc. in 2003, the acquisition of Heater Utilities, Inc. in 2004, and the acquisition of American Water Works Company, Inc.’s regulated operations in Ohio in 2012.  Since the early 1990s, our business strategy has been primarily directed toward the regulated water and wastewater utility industry, where we have more than quadrupled the number of regulated customers we serve, and has extended our regulated operations from southeastern Pennsylvania to include operations in seven other states.  Currently, the Company seeks to acquire businesses in the U.S. regulated sector, which includes water and wastewater utilities and other regulated utilities, and to opportunistically pursue growth ventures in select market-based activities, such as infrastructure opportunities that are supplementary and complementary to our regulated businesses.



The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes.



Financial Condition

 

During the first three months of 2018, we had $105,136 of capital expenditures, expended $190 for the acquisition of water and wastewater utility systems, issued $66,996 of long-term debt, and repaid debt and made sinking fund contributions and other loan repayments of $21,898. The capital expenditures were related to new and replacement water mains, improvements to treatment plants, tanks, hydrants, and service lines, well and booster improvements, and other enhancements and improvements.  The issuance of long-term debt was comprised principally of the funds borrowed under our revolving credit facility. 



At March 31, 2018, we had $3,202 of cash and cash equivalents compared to $4,204 at December 31, 2017.  During the first three months of 2018, we used the proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt and internally generated funds to fund the cash requirements discussed above and to pay dividends.

 

At March 31, 2018, our $250,000 unsecured revolving credit facility, which expires in February 2021, had $113,189 available for borrowing.  At March 31, 2018, we had short-term lines of credit of $135,500, of which $115,158 was available for borrowing.  One of our short-term lines of credit is an Aqua Pennsylvania $100,000 364-day unsecured revolving credit facility with four banks, which is used to provide working capital, and as of March 31, 2018, $79,658 was available for borrowing.          



Our short-term lines of credit of $135,500 are subject to renewal on an annual basis.  Although we believe we will be able to renew these facilities, there is no assurance that they will be renewed, or what the terms of any such renewal will be.     

 

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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

 MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF 

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

 

The Company’s consolidated balance sheet historically has had a negative working capital position whereby routinely our current liabilities exceed our current assets.  Management believes that internally generated funds along with existing credit facilities and the proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt will be adequate to provide sufficient working capital to maintain normal operations and to meet our financing requirements for at least the next twelve months. 



Results of Operations 



Analysis of First Quarter of 2018 Compared to First Quarter of 2017 



Revenues increased by $6,560 or 3.5%, primarily due to an increase in customer water consumption, an increase in water and wastewater rates and infrastructure rehabilitation surcharges of $5,097, and additional water and wastewater revenues of $1,634 associated with a larger customer base due to organic growth and utility acquisitions, offset by a reserve, recognized in the first quarter of 2018, of $2,532 for amounts expected to be refundable to utility customers associated with the decrease in the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% due to the TCJA    

 

Operations and maintenance expenses increased by $6,056 or 8.9%,  primarily due to an increase in labor expense of $1,559, which included additional overtime expenses for increased maintenance activities, an increase in postretirement benefits of $1,442, and an increase in maintenance expenses of $1,057, mainly resulting from expenses incurred due to more severe winter weather conditions



Depreciation expense increased by $2,130 or 6.3%, primarily due to the utility plant placed in service since March 31,  2017

 

Interest expense increased by $2,145 or 10.1%, primarily due to an increase in average borrowings, offset by a decrease in our effective interest rate



Allowance for funds used during construction (“AFUDC”) decreased by $326, due to a decrease in the average balance of utility plant construction work in progress, to which AFUDC is applied. 



Equity earnings in joint venture increased by $412 due to an increase in the sale of raw water to firms in the natural gas drilling industry. 



Other decreased by $635 primarily due to a decrease in the non-service cost components of our net benefit cost for pension and postretirement benefits.   



Our effective income tax rate was -4.4% in the first quarter of 2018 and 5.6% in the first quarter of 2017.  The effective income tax rate decreased due to the reduction in the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, and the effect of additional tax deductions recognized in the first quarter of 2018 for certain qualifying infrastructure improvements for Aqua Pennsylvania.  A revenue reserve has been recognized in the first quarter of 2018 for the amounts expected to be refundable to utility customers associated with the decrease in the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% due to the TCJA.         



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AQUA AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

 

 MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF 

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

 

Net income increased by $1,767 or 3.6%, primarily as a result of the factors described above. 





Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

 

We describe the impact of recent accounting pronouncements in Note 15,  Recent Accounting Pronouncements, to the consolidated financial statements in this report.

 

 

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Item 3  – Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 

 

We are subject to market risks in the normal course of business, including changes in interest rates and equity prices.  There have been no significant changes in our exposure to market risks since December 31, 2017.  Refer to Item 7A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed February 28, 2018, for additional information.

 

Item 4  – Controls and Procedures 

 

(a)

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures 

 

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report are effective such that the information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.   

 

(b)

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

 

No change in our internal control over financial reporting occurred during our most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Part II.  Other Information

 

Item 1 – Legal Proceedings 

 

We are party to various legal proceedings.  Although the results of legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, there are no pending legal proceedings to which we or any of our subsidiaries is a party or to which any of our properties is the subject that we believe are material or are expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.   

 

Item 1A – Risk Factors 

 

There have been no material changes to the risks disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed February 28, 2018, under “Part 1, Item 1A – Risk Factors.”

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Table of Contents

 

Item 2 – Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds



The following table summarizes the Company’s purchases of its common stock for the quarter ended March 31, 2018:





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

Maximum



 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of

 

Number of



 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

Shares



 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchased

 

that May



 

 

 

 

 

 

as Part of

 

Yet be



 

Total

 

 

 

 

Publicly

 

Purchased



 

Number

 

Average

 

Announced

 

Under the



 

of Shares

 

Price Paid

 

Plans or

 

Plan or

Period

 

Purchased (1)

 

per Share

 

Programs

 

Programs

January 1-31, 2018

 

2,662 

 

$

36.37 

 

 -

 

 -

February 1-28, 2018

 

68,805 

 

$

34.56 

 

 -

 

 -

March 1-31, 2018

 

473 

 

$

33.84 

 

 -

 

 -

Total

 

71,940 

 

$

34.63 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

(1)

These amounts include the following:  (a) 63,941 shares we acquired from employees associated with the withholding of shares to pay certain withholding taxes upon the vesting of stock-based compensation; and (b) 7,999 shares we acquired from our employees who elected to pay the exercise price of their stock options (and then hold shares of the stock), upon exercise, by delivering to us shares of our common stock in accordance with the terms of our equity compensation plan that were previously approved by our shareholders and disclosed in our proxy statements.  These features of our equity compensation plan are available to all employees who receive stock-based compensation under the plan.  We purchased these shares at their fair market value, as determined by reference to the closing price of our common stock on the day prior to the option exercise.     

 

Item 6 – Exhibits  

 

The information required by this Item is set forth in the Exhibit Index hereto which is incorporated herein by reference.

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Table of Contents

 

EXHIBIT INDEX 

















 

 

Exhibit No. 

 

 Description 

31.1 

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

31.2 

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

32.1 

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

32.2 

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

101.INS

 

XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.DEF

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.LAB

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRES

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document



31


 

Table of Contents

 

SIGNATURES 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be executed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. 



May 9, 2018



 

 

 

 

 



 

Aqua America, Inc.                  



 

Registrant



 

 

 



 

 

 



 

 

 



 

/s/ Christopher H. Franklin 



 

Christopher H. Franklin



 

Chairman, President and



 

Chief Executive Officer



 

 

 



 

 

 



 

 

 



 

/s/ David P. Smeltzer



 

David P. Smeltzer



 

Executive Vice President and



 

Chief Financial Officer 

 

32