Aging infrastructure among top issues facing LADWP, city audit finds

 Aging infrastructure and lack of implementation plans are among the top issues facing the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, according to an audit released today by city officials.
A group of people monitor construction crews demolishing a portion of the Mulholland Drive bridge along the 405 Freeway September 29, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. The 405 Freeway is completely shut down for a 10 mile stretch this weekend for the demolition that is part of a larger $1-billion freeway improvement project. Photo credit Jonathan Alcorn/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Aging infrastructure and lack of implementation plans are among the top issues facing the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, according to an audit released today by city officials.

The report, jointly issued Mayor Eric Garcetti, City Controller Ron Galperin and the city council, analyzed risks and opportunities for improvements at the LADWP.

The challenges span several areas, including sustainability, water and power infrastructure, information technology, cybersecurity and emergency management, according to the audit.

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Let your voice be heard on the political stage that has the greatest impact on your daily life as an Angeleno.
What would you like to ask the next mayor of L.A.? Leave your questions in the comments or email them to debate@knxnews.com.
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The report found that aging infrastructure in the city could impact service reliability and long-term costs, if not addressed. Many programs intended to address challenges due to regulations and aging infrastructure lack detailed implementation and will ``demand significant program management acumen,'' the report states.

The department is also facing vacancies and lacking in specific expertise in areas of information technology and cybersecurity, the report found. Another concern raised by the report was the LADWP's ability to meet financial targets.

``Ensuring that L.A. residents have access to a modern, reliable public utility that delivers affordable water and power to their homes and businesses must be a top priority for the city,'' Galperin said. ``The LADWP has made progress on a number of fronts in recent years, but ethical and operational issues highlight the clear need for greater transparency and accountability at the department. This report identifies opportunities to improve how LADWP functions and serves its ratepayers in the region.''

The full report can be viewed here.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Jonathan Alcorn/Getty Images