Private companies are rarely criticized for hiring public relations firms to promote their image or advertising agencies to push their products.But when public entities like water and wastewater agencies hire such firms for communications support, they can encounter a backlash. “You’re a monopoly,” goes the argument. “Why are you spending tax or ratepayer dollars just to make yourself look good?”That argument doesn’t withstand scrutiny — public agencies rarely engage in mere image polishing. Money they spend on communications generally goes toward legitimate exercises in public education or public participation, sometimes required by law.But when is it legitimate to bring in
