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CPU Plans ‘Bright Future’ Celebration on May 16

Customers invited to 120th anniversary reception from 2-4 p.m. at CPU’s office

Customers of Clarksdale Public Utilities will be the guests of honor during a “Bright Future” celebration recognizing CPU’s 120th anniversary of serving the community. Area residents and business owners are invited to drop by the utility’s main office at 416 Third Street on May 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. to meet employees, enjoy refreshments and learn about CPU’s commitment to a brighter future of service, innovation and community growth.

“There is no better way to celebrate our 120th anniversary than by focusing on our customers and the future of Clarksdale and CPU,” said CPU General Manager Curtis B. Boschert. “Our relationship with customers has always been at the heart of CPU’s mission, which is providing reliable utility services at the lowest reasonable cost. It is a mission we pledge to uphold as we work toward a ‘Bright Future’ for customers and the community.”

CPU’s “Bright Future” initiative is a series of programs and events highlighting the utility’s new strategy to improve service and offer innovative technologies to increase customer satisfaction and drive growth. The initiative builds on CPU’s legacy of community support and its role in providing services that have powered Clarksdale through many eras and generations.

Most homes were lit with gas lamps and candles and lacked running water when Clarksdale’s water and light department began operating an electric power plant in 1899 to serve a growing city of 1,800 residents. The utility soon expanded to supply water and sewer services and eventually built a new power plant on Third Street. It later became Clarksdale Public Utilities.

As Clarksdale grew and electricity became a common convenience, CPU played a pivotal role in providing the utility services required to attract new businesses and industries and help strengthen the local economy. CPU also made prudent investments to support growth, incorporate modern technologies and improve reliability. In 1958, CPU began operating the new South Plant at 240 Hicks St., and in 1965 its new wastewater treatment plant went into service.

Today, CPU has 80 employees and serves approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale. The utility continues investments in upgrades and enhancements to keep its services operating reliably and efficiently while holding rates below state and national averages. CPU also offers several billing and payment options that give customers more control over their utility accounts, billing cycles and household budgets.

Effective and accountable governance is a CPU strength that factors into the utility’s longevity in Clarksdale. Last year, the CPU Commission became the first municipal utility governing board in Mississippi and in the nation to have all of its members certified by the American Public Power Association Public Utility Governance Certification Program.

“We are looking forward to a great turnout on May 16 as we celebrate CPU’s anniversary with our customers,” said Boschert. “CPU is an integral part of the community and we are prepared to meet Clarksdale’s current and future needs by upholding the values that have made us successful for the past 120 years. Our focus remains on service, leadership, trust and accountability.”

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.