Atmos Energy 2001 Annual Report Download - page 19

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13
However, the colder weather also led to higher delinquencies
by customers who did
not pay their bills. As a result, our customer
accounts receivable increased, as did our
provision for doubtful
accounts. In part, the delinquencies rose as a result of state regula-
tory rules that prohibit disconnecting customers for nonpayment
during the winter-heating months and extremely lenient payment
options permitted by some states.
We have stepped up collection efforts and have installed new
measures to qualify customers before they are initially connected
or reconnected to our distribution system. We also have worked with social service
and public assistance agencies as well as state regulators to help customers restore
their service as soon as possible.
Increased security
To protect our customers, employees and assets, Atmos always has stressed safety
as the highest priority in all its operations.
Because of the terrorist strikes on September 11, our business units have heightened
their security precautions. We have reviewed our business continuity plans, discussed
security matters with public officials and law enforcement agencies and increased the
vigilance at our facilities.
Our business units have well-established coordination and communication
procedures with firefighters, law enforcement agencies and other emergency officials.
We also have relationships with other gas companies in the region to assist each
other in case of an emergency.
2001 Utility Gross Margins
Irrigation 2%
Residential
60%
Commercial
21%
Industrial 5%
Public Authority 4%
Transportation 8%