Project Description & Overview
With the guidance of Raftelis Consultants, the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority and Rivanna Solid Waste Authority initiated a joint strategic planning process beginning in June 2022 to update the organizational vision and a framework for guiding the utility into the future. The strategic framework will help guide investment, allocate resources, and provide a structure for annual reviews to assure that long-term goals and objectives are achieved.

Strategic Plan
In June 2022, the RWSA and RSWA began a joint strategic planning process with Raftelis Consultants. This initiative aims to update their organizational vision and create a framework for future guidance.
The strategic framework will help prioritize investments, allocate resources, and facilitate annual reviews to ensure long-term goals are met.
Process
Rivanna’s strategic planning process was designed to assure a shared vision of Rivanna’s ultimate goals, a collective understanding of the available resources, the principles upon which strategies are based, and acceptance of the direction and urgency of the strategic and operating plans, which will be integrated into the way Rivanna is operated on a day-to-day basis.
The planning process involved input from a broad group of internal and external stakeholders. Major elements of the process included: Stakeholder Input, Foundation Workshops, Goal Teams, Strategy Workshops, and Project Steering Team Review.
Goal Teams
The Goal Teams, comprised of more than 60 employees from across the organization, are knowledgeable, energized, and committed to the implementation of the Strategies for their respective Goals.
Communication & Collaboration
To elevate awareness of the Authorities’ impact and value through proactive communication, effective partnerships, and community involvement
Environmental Stewardship
To demostrate and promote best practices in sustainability, resources conservation, and environmental education.
Workforce Development
To attract, develop, and retain a professional, highly skilled, engaged, and diverse team
Optimization and Resiliency
To empower a culture of innovative and collaborative thinking that advances efficient operational processes, technology modernization, and risk mitigation.
Planning and Infrastructure
To address evolving needs by planning, delivering, and maintaining dependable infrastructure and facilities in a financially responsible manner.
Project Timeline
Strategic Planning Project Kick-off Meeting
June 15, 2017
Survey
June 26, 2017
June 26 – July 14: On-Line Survey for All Employees
Public Meeting hosted by Rivanna and Raftelis
August 3, 2017
Work Session #1
August 22, 2017
Goal Teams Workshops
September 19, 2017
Strategy Workshop
October 12, 2017
Work Session #2
November 14, 2017
Implementation Workshops
January 30, 2018
Focus Groups
June 8, 2022
Foundation Workshop
July 7, 2022
RWSA Board Approval
November 15, 2022
RSWA Board Approval
November 15, 2022