Preliminary Proxy Statement
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. )
Filed by the Registrant þ
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant o
Check the appropriate box:
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Preliminary Proxy Statement |
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Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) |
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Definitive Proxy Statement |
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Definitive Additional Materials |
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Soliciting Material Pursuant to §240.14a-12 |
PURE CYCLE CORPORATION
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PURE CYCLE CORPORATION
500 E. 8th Ave, Suite 201
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 292-3456
NOTICE
OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To be held on January 11, 2011
TO PURE CYCLES SHAREHOLDERS:
You are cordially invited to attend the annual meeting of the shareholders of Pure Cycle
Corporation (the Company). The meeting will be held at 1550 Seventeenth Street, Suite 500,
Denver, Colorado 80202, at the offices of Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP, on January 11, 2011 at
2:00 p.m. Mountain Time for the following purposes:
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To elect a board of seven directors to serve until the next annual meeting of
shareholders, or until their successors have been duly elected and qualified; |
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2. |
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To ratify the appointment of GHP Horwath, P.C. as the Companys independent registered
public accounting firm for the 2011 fiscal year; |
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3. |
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To approve the issuance of shares of common stock upon conversion of a $5.2 million
Convertible Negotiable Promissory Note payable by the Company to PAR Investment Partners,
L.P., a 5% or greater shareholder of the Company; and |
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4. |
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To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any
adjournment(s) or postponement(s) thereof. |
Only shareholders of record as of 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time on November 22, 2010 will be entitled to
notice of or to vote at this meeting or any adjournment(s) thereof.
Whether or not you plan to attend, please vote promptly by following the instructions on the
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials or, if you requested a printed set
of proxy materials, by completing, signing and dating the enclosed proxy and returning it in the
accompanying postage-paid envelope. Shareholders who attend the meeting may revoke their proxies
and vote in person if they so desire.
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BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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/s/ Scott E. Lehman
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Scott E. Lehman, Secretary |
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December 2, 2010
PURE CYCLE CORPORATION
500 E. 8th Ave, Suite 201
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 292-3456
PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To be held on January 11, 2011
ABOUT THE MEETING
This proxy statement is being made available to shareholders in connection with the solicitation of
proxies by the board of directors of PURE CYCLE CORPORATION (the Company) for use at the annual
meeting of shareholders of the Company (the Meeting) to be held at 1550 Seventeenth Street,
Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80202, at the offices of Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP on January 11, 2011
at 2:00 p.m. Mountain Time or at any adjournment thereof. The cost of soliciting proxies is being
paid by the Company. The Companys officers, directors, and other regular employees may, without
additional compensation, solicit proxies personally or by other appropriate means.
Why did I receive a one-page notice in the mail regarding the Internet availability of proxy
materials instead of a full set of proxy materials?
Pursuant to the rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Company is
required to provide access to its proxy materials via the Internet. Accordingly, the Company
furnished proxy materials to its shareholders primarily via the Internet, rather than mailing these
materials to each shareholder. On or about December 2, 2010, the Company mailed to each
shareholder of record and beneficial owners (other than those who previously requested electronic
delivery) an Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials.
How can I get access to the proxy materials?
Instructions on how to access the proxy materials, including this proxy statement and the Companys
Annual Report on Form 10-K, on-line may be found in the Important Notice Regarding the Availability
of Proxy Materials, as well as instructions to request a printed set of such materials. You may
also request the proxy materials by contacting the Companys transfer agent: Computershare Trust
Company, Inc., 350 Indiana Street, Suite #800, Golden, Colorado 80401, telephone: (303) 262-0600
or 1-800-962-4284, or by writing the Companys Secretary at the Companys address set forth above.
If you would like to receive the Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials via
email rather than regular mail in future years, please follow the instructions in the Notice.
Choosing to receive future notices by email will help the Company reduce the costs and
environmental impact of the Companys shareholder meetings.
What is the purpose of the Meeting?
At the Meeting, shareholders are asked to act upon the matters outlined above in the Notice of
Annual Meeting of Shareholders and as described in this proxy statement. The matters to be
considered are (i) the election of directors, (ii) the ratification of the appointment of the
Companys independent auditors for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2011, (iii) the approval of
the issuance of shares of common stock upon conversion of a $5.2 million note payable, and (iv)
such other matters as may properly come before the Meeting. Management will be available to
respond to appropriate questions.
Who is entitled to vote?
Only shareholders of record as of 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time on November 22, 2010 (the Record Date),
are entitled to vote on matters presented at the Meeting. On the Record Date, there were
22,055,499 shares of the Companys 1/3 of $.01 par value common stock (common stock) issued and
outstanding.
- 1 -
What are my voting rights?
If you were a shareholder of record on the Record Date you will be entitled to vote all of the
shares you held on the Record Date at the Meeting or any postponements or adjournments thereof. If
your shares are held in an account at a bank, brokerage firm, or other nominee, then you are the
beneficial owner of shares held in street name. If you wish to vote in person at the Meeting,
you must obtain a valid proxy from the nominee that holds your shares. Whether you hold shares
directly as the shareholder of record or beneficially in street name, you may direct how your
shares are voted without attending the Meeting.
Each outstanding share of the Companys common stock will be entitled to one vote on each matter
acted upon. There is no cumulative voting.
How do I vote?
If you are the shareholder of record, you may vote your shares by following the instructions in the
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials mailed on or about December 2, 2010
or, if you have received a printed set of the proxy materials, you may vote your shares by
completing, signing and dating the enclosed proxy card and then mailing it to the Companys
transfer agent in the pre-addressed envelope provided. You may also vote your shares by calling
the transfer agent at the number listed on the proxy card. If your shares are held beneficially in
street name, you may vote your shares by following the instructions provided by your broker.
Can I change or revoke my vote?
A proxy may be revoked by a shareholder any time prior to the exercise thereof by written notice to
the Secretary of the Company, by submission of another proxy bearing a later date or by attending
the Meeting and voting in person.
Is my vote confidential?
Proxy instructions, ballots and voting tabulations that identify individual shareholders are
handled in a manner that protects your voting privacy. Your vote will not be disclosed within the
Company or to third parties, except: (1) as necessary to meet applicable legal requirements, (2) to
allow for the tabulation of votes and certification of the vote, and (3) to facilitate a successful
proxy solicitation. Occasionally shareholders provide written comments on their proxy cards, which
are forwarded to management of the Company.
Will my shares held in street name be voted if I do not provide my proxy?
If you hold your shares through a bank, broker, or other nominee, your shares must be voted by the
nominee. If you do not provide voting instructions, under the rules of the securities exchanges,
the nominees discretionary authority to vote your shares is limited to routine matters.
Proposal 1 for the election of directors and proposal 3 for the conversion of the promissory note
are not considered routine matters for this purpose, so if you do not provide your proxy, your
shares will not be voted at the Meeting with respect to the election of directors or proposal 3.
In this case your shares will be treated as broker non-votes and will not be counted for purposes
of determining the election of directors or whether proposal 3 has been approved.
A broker non-vote occurs when a nominee holding shares for a beneficial owner does not vote on a
particular proposal because the nominee does not have discretionary voting power with respect to
that item and has not received voting instructions from the beneficial owner.
What is a quorum?
The presence, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of
common stock constitutes a quorum at the Meeting for the election of directors and for the other
proposals. Abstentions and broker non-votes are counted for the purposes of determining whether a
quorum is present at the Meeting.
- 2 -
How many votes are required to approve the proposals?
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Election of Directors The election of directors requires the affirmative vote of a
plurality of the votes cast by shares represented in person or by proxy and entitled to vote
for the election of directors. This means that the nominees receiving the most votes from
those eligible to vote will be elected. You may vote FOR all of the nominees or your vote
may be WITHHELD with respect to one or more of the nominees; however, a withheld vote or a
broker non-vote (defined above) will have no effect on the outcome of the election. |
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Ratification of auditors, conversion of note payable to common stock and other matters -
The number of votes cast in favor of the proposal at the Meeting must exceed the number of
votes cast against the proposal for the approval of proposals 2 and 3 and other matters. For
proposals 2 and 3 and any other business matters to be voted on, you may vote FOR,
AGAINST, or you may ABSTAIN. Abstentions and broker non-votes will not be counted as
votes for or against a proposal and, therefore, have no effect on the vote. |
If no specification is made, then the shares will be voted FOR the directors nominated by the
board of directors and FOR proposals 2 and 3 and otherwise, in accordance with the
recommendations of the board of directors.
Does the Company expect there to be any additional matters presented at the Meeting?
Other than the items of business described in this proxy, the Company is not aware of any other
business to be acted upon at the Meeting. If you grant a proxy, the persons named as
proxy-holders, Mark W. Harding and Harrison H. Augur, have the discretion to vote your shares on
any additional matter properly presented for a vote at the Meeting. If for any unforeseen reason
any of the director nominees are not available for election at the date of the Meeting, the named
proxy-holders will vote your shares for such other candidates as may be nominated by the board.
When will the results of the voting being announced?
The Company will announce preliminary results at the Meeting and will publish final results in a
current report on Form 8-K to be filed within 4 days of the date of the Meeting.
VOTING SECURITIES AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS THEREOF
The following table sets forth information as of November 22, 2010, as to the beneficial ownership
of shares of the Companys common stock by (i) each person (or group of affiliated persons) known
to the Company to own beneficially 5% or more of the common stock, (ii) each director of the
Company and each nominee for director, (iii) each executive officer and (iv) all directors and
executive officers as a group. All information is based on information filed by such persons with
the SEC and other information provided by such persons to the Company. Except as otherwise
indicated, the Company believes that each of the beneficial owners listed has sole investment and
voting power with respect to such shares. On November 22, 2010, there were 22,055,499 shares
outstanding. Shares not outstanding but deemed beneficially owned by virtue of the right of a
person to acquire shares within 60 days of November 22, 2010, are included as outstanding and
beneficially owned for that person, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing
the percentage ownership of any other person.
- 3 -
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Amount and nature of |
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Percent of |
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Name and address of beneficial owner |
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beneficial ownership |
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class |
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Mark W. Harding ** |
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727,243 |
1 |
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3.3 |
% |
Harrison H. Augur ** |
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122,384 |
2 |
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* |
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Arthur G.
Epker III - One International Place, Suite 2401, Boston, MA 02110 |
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12,500 |
3 |
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* |
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Richard L. Guido ** |
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20,000 |
4 |
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* |
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Peter C. Howell ** |
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18,000 |
5 |
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* |
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George M. Middlemas - 225 W. Washington, #1500, Chicago, IL 60606 |
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20,000 |
6 |
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* |
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H. Hunter White - 301 St. Charles Ave., 3rd Floor, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
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3,000,000 |
7 |
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13.6 |
% |
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All officers and directors as a group (7 persons) |
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3,920,127 |
8 |
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17.7 |
% |
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PAR Capital Management, Inc. / PAR Investment Partners, L.P. / PAR Group, L.P.
One International Place, Suite 2401, Boston, MA 02110 |
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4,000,871 |
9 |
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18.1 |
% |
High Plains A&M, LLC - 301 St. Charles Ave., 3rd Floor, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
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3,000,000 |
10 |
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13.6 |
% |
Wellington Management Company, LLP - 75 State Street, Boston, MA 02109 |
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2,158,195 |
11 |
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9.8 |
% |
Trigran Investments, Inc. / Trigran Investments, L.P.
630 Dundee Road, Suite 230, Northbrook, IL 60062 |
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1,923,944 |
12 |
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8.7 |
% |
RMB Capital Management, LLC - 115 S. LaSalle Street, 34th Floor, Chicago, IL 60603 |
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1,442,262 |
13 |
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6.5 |
% |
Tealwood Asset Management, Inc. - 80 South 8th Street, Suite 1225, Minneapolis, MN
55402 |
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1,367,579 |
14 |
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6.2 |
% |
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* |
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Less than 1% |
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** |
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Address is the Companys address: 500 E. 8th Ave, Suite 201, Denver, CO 80203 |
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Includes 210,000 shares of common stock held by SMA Investments, LLLP, a limited liability
limited partnership controlled by Mr. Harding. |
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Includes 20,000 shares purchasable by Mr. Augur under currently exercisable options.
Includes 10,000 shares of common stock held by Patience Partners, L.P., a limited partnership
in which a foundation controlled by Mr. Augur is a 60% limited partner and Patience Partners
LLC is a 40% general partner. Patience Partners LLC is a limited liability company in which
Mr. Augur owns a 50% membership interest. Includes 46,111 shares of common stock held by
Auginco, a Colorado partnership, which is owned 50% by Mr. Augur and 50% by his wife. |
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Includes 12,500 shares purchasable by Mr. Epker under currently exercisable options.
Excludes 4,000,871 shares of common stock held directly by PAR Investment Partners, L.P.
(PIP). PAR Capital Management, Inc. (PCM), as the general partner of PAR Group, L.P.
(PGL), which is the general partner of PIP, has investment discretion and voting control
over shares held by PIP. No shareholder, director, officer or employee of PCM has beneficial
ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 (the Exchange Act)) of any shares held by PIP. The shares held by PIP are part of a
portfolio managed by Mr. Epker. As an officer of PCM, Mr. Epker has the authority to trade
the securities held by PIP, however, Mr. Epker disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares
held by PIP. |
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Includes 20,000 shares purchasable by Mr. Guido under currently exercisable options. |
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Includes 17,500 shares purchasable by Mr. Howell under currently exercisable options. |
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Includes 20,000 shares purchasable by Mr. Middlemas under currently exercisable options. |
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By reason of his status as a member and manager of High Plains A&M, LLC, (HP A&M), Mr.
White has voting authority and investment power over the 3,000,000 shares issued to HP A&M.
Mr. White disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares held by HP A&M except to the extent of
his pecuniary interest therein, which is approximately 66% or approximately 2,000,000 shares
of common stock. HP A&M has pledged 2,250,000 of its shares of common stock. Mr. Whites
interest in the shares pledged would equate to a pledge of approximately 1,500,000 of the
shares in which he claims pecuniary interest. |
- 4 -
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8. |
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Includes the following shares: |
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a. |
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210,000 shares held by SMA Investments, LLLP as described in number 1 above, |
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b. |
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90,000 shares purchasable by directors and officers under exercisable options,
and |
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c. |
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10,000 shares of common stock held by Patience Partners, L.P., and 46,111
shares of common stock held by Auginco, as described in number 2 above. |
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9. |
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This disclosure is based on the Schedule 13D/A filed by PIP, PGL and PCM on October 8, 2010.
PIP owns directly 4,000,871 shares. PGL, through its control of PIP as general partner, has
sole voting and dispositive power with respect to all 4,000,871 shares owned beneficially by
PIP. PCM, through its control of PGL as general partner, has sole voting and dispositive
power with respect to all 4,000,871 shares owned beneficially by PIP. |
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10. |
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This disclosure is based on a Schedule 13G filed by HP A&M on September 11, 2006. By reason
of the status of each of H. Hunter White, Mark D. Campbell and M. Walker Baus as a member and
manager of HP A&M, each of them is deemed a beneficial owner of these shares. Each of them
disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares held by HP A&M except to the extent of his
pecuniary interest in the limited liability company. |
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This disclosure is based on a Schedule 13G/A filed by Wellington Management Company, LLP
(Wellington) on February 12, 2010. Wellington, in its capacity as investment adviser, may
be deemed to beneficially own shares owned of record by clients of Wellington. Wellington
shares dispositive power over 2,158,195 shares and voting power over 1,499,695 shares. |
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12. |
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This disclosure is based on a Schedule 13G/A filed by Trigran Investments, Inc. (TII),
Trigran Investments, L.P. (TIL), Douglas Granat, Lawrence A. Oberman and Steven G. Simon on
February 12, 2010. It includes 1,198,640 shares of common stock owned by TIL. By reason of
its role as the general partner of TIL, TII may be considered the beneficial owner of the
shares owned by TIL. By reason of their role as controlling shareholders and sole directors
of TII, each of Douglas Granat, Lawrence A. Oberman and Steven G. Simon may be considered the
beneficial owners of shares beneficially owned by TII. |
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This disclosure is based on a Schedule 13G filed by RMB Capital Management, LLC on February
5, 2010. |
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14. |
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This disclosure is based on a Schedule 13G filed by Tealwood Asset Management, Inc.
(Tealwood) on November 3, 2010. Tealwood has sole dispositive power over 1,367,579 and
voting power over 1,085,318 shares. |
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth the Companys directors, director nominees, and executive officer
and their positions currently held with the Company.
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Name |
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Age |
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Position |
Mark W. Harding
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47 |
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Director, President, CEO and CFO * |
Harrison H. Augur
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68 |
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Chairman of the Board * |
Arthur G. Epker III
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48 |
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Director * |
Richard L. Guido
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66 |
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Director * |
Peter C. Howell
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61 |
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Director * |
George M. Middlemas
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64 |
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Director * |
H. Hunter White
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56 |
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* |
The principal occupation and other information about each of the individuals listed above,
including the period during which each has served as director or officer can be found beginning on
page 15.
- 5 -
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND BOARD MATTERS
Board Leadership Structure
The Companys board of directors has chosen to separate the positions of Chief Executive
Officer and Chairman of the board. Keeping these positions separate allows the Companys Chief
Executive Officer to focus on developing and implementing the Companys business plans and
supervising the Companys day-to-day operations and allows the Companys Chairman to lead the board
of directors in its oversight and advisory roles. Because of the many responsibilities of the
board of directors and the significant time and effort required by each of the Chairman and the
Chief Executive Officer to perform their respective duties, the Company believes that having
separate persons in these roles enhances the ability of each to discharge those duties effectively
and, as a corollary, enhances the Companys prospects for success. The board of directors also
believes that having separate positions provides a clear delineation of responsibilities for each
position and fosters greater accountability of management.
Board Risk and Oversight
Our board of directors, as a whole and through its committees, has responsibility for the oversight
of risk management. With the oversight of the Companys full board of directors, the Companys
executive officer is responsible for the day-to-day management of the material risks the Company
faces. In its oversight role, the board of directors has the responsibility to satisfy itself that
the risk management processes designed and implemented by management are adequate and functioning
as designed. Annually, the board of directors holds strategic planning sessions with management to
discuss strategies, key challenges, risks and opportunities for the Company. This involvement of
the board of directors in setting the Companys business strategy is a key part of its oversight of
risk management, its assessment of managements appetite for risk, and its determination of what
constitutes an appropriate level of risk for the Company. Additionally, the board of directors
regularly receives updates from management regarding certain risks the Company faces, including
various operating risks. Management attends meetings of the board of directors and its committees
on a regular basis, and as is otherwise needed, and are available to address any questions or
concerns raised by the board on risk management and any other matters.
The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing risk management of financial matters, financial
reporting, the adequacy of the Companys risk-related internal controls, internal investigations,
and enterprise risks, generally. The Nominating Committee oversees the Companys corporate
governance guidelines and governance-related risks, such as board independence, as well as
management and director succession planning. The Compensation Committee oversees risks related to
compensation policies and practices, and is responsible for establishing and maintaining
compensation policies and programs designed to create incentives consistent with the Companys
business strategy that do not encourage excessive risk-taking.
Board Membership and Director Independence
Director Independence - At least a majority of the members of the board and all members of the
boards Audit, Compensation, and Nominating Committees must be independent in accordance with the
listing standards of The NASDAQ Stock Market. The board has determined that four of the six
current members, Messrs. Augur, Guido, Howell, and Middlemas, are independent pursuant to the
standards of The NASDAQ Stock Market.
Terms of Directors and Officers - All directors are elected for one-year terms which expire at the
annual meeting of shareholders or when their successors are duly elected and qualified. The
Companys officers are elected annually by the board of directors and hold office until their
successors are duly elected and qualified.
Family Relationships of Directors and Officers - None of the current directors or officers, or
nominees for director, is related to any other officer or director of the Company or to any nominee
for director.
Board
meetings held - The board of directors and each of the standing committees described below
meet throughout the year on a set schedule. They also hold special meetings and act by written
consent from time to time as appropriate. The Companys non-management directors meet regularly in
executive sessions without management present. The executive sessions of non-management directors
are held in conjunction with each regularly scheduled board meeting.
- 6 -
During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010, the board of directors held five (5) meetings. All
board members attended 75% or more of the aggregate of the total number of meetings of the board of
directors and the total number of meetings held by all committees of the board on which the
director served except Mr. Middlemas. All of the Companys board members are expected to attend
the annual meetings. All of the Companys board members attended the 2010 Annual Meeting.
Committees
The Board has three standing committees: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Nominating
and Corporate Governance Committee (the Nominating Committee). Each of the committees regularly
reports on its activities and actions to the full board of directors.
Membership in the standing committees for 2010 is set forth below:
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Fiscal 2010 Committee Membership |
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Audit |
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Compensation |
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Nominating |
Director |
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Committee |
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Committee |
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Committee |
M. Harding |
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H. Augur |
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X |
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X |
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X |
A. Epker |
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X |
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X |
R. Guido |
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X |
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Chair |
P. Howell |
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Chair |
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G. Middlemas |
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Chair |
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Audit Committee - The Audit Committee consists of Mr. Howell (Chair) and Messrs. Augur and
Guido. The board of directors has determined that all of the members of the Audit Committee are
independent within the meaning of the listing standards of The NASDAQ Stock Market and the SEC
rules governing audit committees. In addition, the board has determined that Mr. Howell meets the
SEC criteria of an audit committee financial expert by reason of his understanding of Accounting
Principles Generally Accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and the application of GAAP,
his education, his experiences as an auditor and chief financial officer, and his understanding of
financial statements. See Mr. Howells biography under Election of Directors (Proposal No. 1) for
additional information.
The functions to be performed by the Audit Committee include the appointment, retention,
compensation and oversight of the Companys independent auditors, including pre-approval of all
audit and non-audit services to be performed by such auditors. The Audit Committee Charter is
available on the Companys website at www.purecyclewater.com. The Audit Committee held six (6)
meetings during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010.
Compensation Committee - The Compensation Committee consists of Mr. Middlemas (Chairman) and
Messrs. Augur and Epker. The board of directors has determined that all members of the Compensation
Committee are independent with the meaning of the listing standards of The NASDAQ Stock Market.
The functions to be performed by the Compensation Committee include establishing the compensation
of officers, evaluating the performance of officers and key employees, and administering employee
incentive compensation plans. The Compensation Committee typically meets with the Chief Executive
Officer to obtain information about employee performance and compensation recommendations. It also
has the authority to engage outside advisors to assist the committee with its functions. The
Compensation Committee has the power to delegate authority to the CEO or a subcommittee to make
certain determinations with respect to compensation for employees who are not executive officers.
The Companys Compensation Committee Charter is available on the Companys website at
www.purecyclewater.com. The Compensation Committee held two (2) meetings during the fiscal year
ended August 31, 2010.
- 7 -
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee - The Nominating Committee consists of Messrs. Guido
(Chairman), Epker and Augur. The board of directors has determined that all the members of the
Nominating Committee are independent within the meaning of the listing standards of The NASDAQ
Stock Market. The principal responsibilities of the Nominating Committee are to identify and
nominate qualified individuals to serve as members of the board and to make recommendations to the
board with respect to director compensation. In addition, the Nominating Committee is responsible
for establishing the Companys Corporate Governance Guidelines and evaluating the board and its
processes. In selecting nominees for the board, the Nominating Committee is seeking a board with a
variety of experience and expertise, and in selecting nominees it will consider business experience
in the industry in which the Company operates, financial expertise, independence from the Company,
experience with publicly traded companies, experience with relevant regulatory matters in which the
Company is involved, and a reputation for integrity and professionalism. The Company does not have
a formal policy with respect to the consideration of diversity in identifying director nominees,
but it considers diversity as part of its overall assessment of the boards functions and needs.
Nominees must be at least 21 years of age and less than 70. Identification of prospective board
members is done by a combination of methods, including word-of-mouth in industry circles, inquiries
of outside professionals and recommendations made to the Company. The Nominating Committee Charter
is available on the Companys website at www.purecyclewater.com. The Nominating Committee held two
(2) meetings during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010.
The Nominating Committee will consider nominations for director made by shareholders of record
entitled to vote. In order to make a nomination for election at the 2012 annual meeting, a
shareholder must provide notice, along with supporting information (discussed below) regarding such
nominee, to the Companys Secretary by August 4, 2011, in accordance with the Companys bylaws.
The Nominating Committee evaluates nominees recommended by shareholders utilizing the same criteria
it uses for other nominees.
Each shareholder recommendation should be accompanied by the following:
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The full name, address, and telephone number of the person making the recommendation, and
a statement that the person making the recommendation is a shareholder of record (or, if the
person is a beneficial owner of the Companys shares but not a record holder, a statement
from the record holder of the shares verifying the number of shares beneficially owned), and
a statement as to whether the person making the recommendation has a good faith intention to
continue to hold those shares through the date of the Companys next annual meeting; |
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The full name, address, and telephone number of the candidate being recommended,
information regarding the candidates beneficial ownership of the Companys equity
securities, any business or personal relationship between the candidate and the person making
the recommendation, and an explanation of the value or benefit the person making the
recommendation believes the candidate would provide as a director; |
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A statement signed by the candidate that he or she is aware of and consents to being
recommended to the Nominating Committee and will provide such information as the Nominating
Committee may request for its evaluation of candidates; |
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A description of the candidates current principal occupation, business or professional
experience, previous employment history, educational background, and any areas of particular
expertise; |
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Information about any business or personal relationships between the candidate and any of
the Companys customers, suppliers, vendors, competitors, directors or officers, or other
persons with any special interest regarding any transactions between the candidate and the
Company; and |
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Any information in addition to the above about the candidate that would be required to be
included in the Companys proxy statement (including without limitation information about
legal proceedings in which the candidate has been involved within the past ten years). |
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation - No interlocking relationship exists
between any member of the board of directors or the Compensation Committee and any other companys
board of directors or compensation committee.
- 8 -
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
The Company has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for its directors, officers and
employees, which is available on the Companys website at www.purecyclewater.com.
Shareholder Communications with the Board
The board of directors has adopted a policy for shareholders to send communications to the board.
The policy is available on the Companys website. Shareholders wishing to send communications to
the board may contact the Chairman of the board at the Companys principal place of business or
e-mail chairman@purecyclewater.com. All such communications shall be shared with the members of
the board, or if applicable, a specified committee or director.
Director Compensation
Directors who are employees of the Company receive no fees for board service. Currently,
Mr. Harding is the only director who is also an employee. Each non-employee director receives a
payment of $10,000 for each full year in which he or she serves as a director, with an additional
payment of $1,000 for each committee on which he or she serves, and $1,000 for serving as chairman
of the board. Directors receive $500 for attendance at each board meeting and, if committee
meetings are held separate from board meetings, each director receives $500 for attendance at such
committee meetings.
The following table sets forth summary information concerning the compensation paid to the
Companys non-employee directors in fiscal 2010 for services to the Company:
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Director Compensation |
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Change in |
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Pension Value |
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Fees |
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and Nonqualified |
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Earned or |
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Option |
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Non-Equity |
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Deferred |
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Paid in |
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Stock |
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Awards |
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Incentive Plan |
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Compensation |
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All Other |
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Cash |
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Awards |
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(1) |
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Compensation |
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Earnings |
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Compensation |
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Total |
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Name |
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($) |
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($) |
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|
($) |
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($) |
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($) |
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($) |
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($) |
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(a) |
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(b) |
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(c) |
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(d) |
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(e) |
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(f) |
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(g) |
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(h) |
|
H. Augur (2) |
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17,500 |
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6,200 |
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|
|
|
|
|
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23,700 |
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A. Epker (3) |
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14,500 |
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6,200 |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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20,700 |
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R. Guido (4) |
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15,500 |
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6,200 |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
21,700 |
|
P. Howell (5) |
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15,500 |
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|
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|
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|
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6,200 |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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21,700 |
|
G. Middlemas (6) |
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12,500 |
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|
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6,200 |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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18,700 |
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(1) |
|
In addition to cash compensation, as part of the 2004 Incentive Plan approved by shareholders
at the 2004 annual meeting of shareholders, each non-employee director receives an option to
purchase 5,000 shares of common stock upon initial election or appointment to the board (which
vest one half at each of the first and second anniversary dates of the grant), and an option
to purchase 2,500 shares for each subsequent full year in which he or she serves as a
director, which options vest one year from the date of grant. The amounts in this column
represent the total dollar amount that will be recognized as expense for financial reporting
purposes with respect to the options granted during the Companys fiscal year ended August 31,
2010. For more information about how the Company values and accounts for share-based
compensation see Note 8 Shareholders Equity in the Companys August 31, 2010 Annual Report
on Form 10-K. |
|
(2) |
|
The $17,500 earned by Mr. Augur is comprised of: $10,000 for serving on the board, $1,000 for
being the chairman of the board, $3,000 for serving on three committees, $3,500 for attendance
at
board and committee meetings ($500 per meeting). Mr. Augur had 20,000 options outstanding as
of August 31, 2010, all of which are exercisable within 60 days of the filing of this proxy
statement. |
- 9 -
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(3) |
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The $14,500 earned by Mr. Epker is comprised of: $10,000 for serving on the board, $2,000 for
serving on two committees and $2,500 for attendance at board and committee meetings ($500 per
meeting). Mr. Epker had 12,500 options outstanding as of August 31, 2010, all of which are
exercisable within 60 days of the filing of this proxy statement. |
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(4) |
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The $15,500 earned by Mr. Guido is comprised of: $10,000 for serving on the board, $2,000 for
serving on two committees and $3,500 for attendance at board and committee meetings ($500 per
meeting). Mr. Guido had 20,000 options outstanding as of August 31, 2010, all of which are
exercisable within 60 days of the filing of this proxy statement. |
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(5) |
|
The $15,500 earned by Mr. Howell is comprised of: $10,000 for serving on the board, $1,000
for serving on one committee and $4,500 for attendance at board and committee meetings ($500
per meeting). Mr. Howell had 17,500 options outstanding as of August 31, 2010, all of which
are exercisable within 60 days of the filing of this proxy statement. |
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(6) |
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The $12,500 earned by Mr. Middlemas is comprised of: $10,000 for serving on the board, $1,000
for serving on one committee and $1,500 for attendance at board and committee meetings ($500
per meeting). Mr. Middlemas had 20,000 options outstanding as of August 31, 2010, all of
which are exercisable within 60 days of the filing of this proxy statement. |
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Compensation Philosophy
The Companys executive compensation program is administered by the Compensation Committee of the
board of directors. The Compensation Committee is composed of Messrs. Middlemas, Augur and Epker,
three non-employee directors. The Compensation Committee reviews the performance and compensation
level for the executive officer and determines equity grants under the 2004 Incentive Plan. The
executive officer may provide information to the Compensation Committee regarding his compensation;
however, the Compensation Committee makes the final determination on executive compensation. Final
compensation determinations, including equity awards, are generally made in August at the end of
the Companys fiscal year. The following outlines the philosophy and objectives of the Companys
compensation plan.
Q. |
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What are the objectives of the Companys compensation plan? |
A. |
|
The objectives of the Companys compensation plan are to correlate executive compensation
with the Companys objectives and overall performance and to enable the Company to attract,
retain and reward executive officers who contribute to its long-term growth and success. |
Q. |
|
What is the Companys compensation plan designed to do? |
A. |
|
The Companys compensation plan is designed to attract, retain and motivate quality executive
talent critical to the Companys growth and success. The compensation plan is designed to
reward the executive officer of the Company with competitive total pay opportunities through a
compensation mix that emphasizes cash and non-cash incentives and merit-based salary
increases, while de-emphasizing entitlements and perquisites. The compensation plan is
designed to create a mutuality of interest between executive and shareholders through equity
ownership programs and to focus the executives attention on overall corporate objectives, in
addition to the executives personal objectives. |
Q. |
|
What are the goals of the Compensation Committee? |
A. |
|
The goal of the Compensation Committee is to provide a compensation package that is
competitive with compensation practices of companies with which the Company competes, provides
variable
compensation that is linked to achievement of financial and individual performance goals, and
aligns the interests of the executive officer and employees with those of the shareholders of
the Company by providing them with equity ownership in the Company. Additionally, the
Compensation Committees goal is to design compensation packages which fall within the mid-range
of the packages provided to executives of similarly sized corporations in like industries. |
- 10 -
Q. |
|
What are the basic elements of the executive officers pay and how do those fit into the
Companys compensation plan? |
A. |
|
Generally the executive officer receives a base cash salary, cash bonus (if the Compensation
Committee elects to award one), and long-term equity incentives. The mixture of these cash
and non-cash compensation items is designed to provide the executive with a competitive total
compensation package while not using an excessive amount of the Companys cash or overly
diluting the equity positions of its shareholders. The compensation plan for the President is
described below. |
Q. |
|
Does the Company offer any benefit plans to its executive officer? |
A. |
|
The executive officer is eligible for the same benefits available to all Company employees.
Currently, this includes participation in a tax-qualified 401(k) plan, health and dental
plans. |
Q. |
|
Does the Company offer any perquisites to its executive officer? |
A. |
|
The Companys executive officer does not receive any perquisites or personal benefits. |
Compensation of the Companys President
The current compensation program for the Companys President consists of the following:
Base SalaryThe Compensation Committee reviewed and approved a salary for the President during the
year ending August 31, 2010. His base salary was established by the Compensation Committee based
upon competitive compensation data for similarly sized public companies, job responsibilities,
level of experience, individual performance and contribution to the business throughout his career
with the Company. In making the base salary decision, the committee exercised its discretion and
judgment based upon these factors. No specific formula was applied to determine the weight of each
factor. While the Compensation Committee reviewed competitive compensation data, it did not
benchmark Mr. Hardings compensation to that of any other company. Mr. Hardings base salary
remained unchanged from last year.
Incentive BonusThe Compensation Committees goal in granting incentive bonuses is to tie a portion
of the Presidents compensation to the performance of the Company and to the Presidents individual
contribution to the Company. Due to the difficult market for real estate developments, the primary
market for the Companys water rights, and the lack of completion of significant transactions in
fiscal 2010, no incentive bonus was granted to the President during the year ended August 31, 2010.
Long-Term Stock IncentivesThe Compensation Committee has previously provided the Companys
President with long-term equity incentive compensation through grants of stock options and
restricted stock. The goal of the long-term stock incentives has been to align the interests of
the President with those of the Companys shareholders and to provide the President with a
long-term incentive to manage the Company from the perspective of an owner with an equity stake in
the business. It is the belief of the Compensation Committee that stock options and restricted
stock grants directly motivate an executive to maximize long-term shareholder value. The
philosophy of administering the long-term stock incentive plan is to tie the number of stock
options and restricted stock awarded to each employee in the plan to the performance of the Company
and to the individual contribution of each employee in the plan.
No long-term stock incentives were granted during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010. However,
the Compensation Committee tasked the Chairman of the Compensation Committee with investigating
long-term incentive awards for consideration by the Compensation Committee in fiscal 2011.
- 11 -
Discussion with Respect to Qualifying Compensation for Deductibility
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code imposes a limit on tax deductions for annual
compensation (other than performance-based compensation) in excess of one million dollars paid by a
corporation to its chief executive officer and its other four most highly compensated executive
officers. The Company has not established a policy with regard to Section 162(m) of the Code,
because the Company does not currently anticipate paying cash compensation in excess of one million
dollars per annum to any employee. The Compensation Committee will continue to assess the impact
of Section 162(m) on its compensation practices and determine what further action, if any, is
appropriate.
Compensation Tables
The Companys President, Mr. Harding, is the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal
Financial Officer of the Company. Therefore, all tables contained in this section relate solely to
Mr. Harding.
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Summary Compensation Table |
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Change in |
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Pension Value |
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and Non- |
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Qualified |
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Non-Equity |
|
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Deferred |
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Base |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock |
|
|
Option |
|
|
Incentive Plan |
|
|
Compensation |
|
|
All Other |
|
|
|
|
Name and principal |
|
Fiscal |
|
|
Salary |
|
|
Bonus |
|
|
Awards |
|
|
Awards |
|
|
Compensation |
|
|
Earnings |
|
|
Compensation |
|
|
Total |
|
position |
|
year |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
|
($) |
|
(a) |
|
(b) |
|
|
(c) |
|
|
(d) |
|
|
(e) |
|
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(f) |
|
|
(g) |
|
|
(h) |
|
|
(i) |
|
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(j) |
|
Mark W. Harding |
|
|
2010 |
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250,000 |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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250,000 |
|
President, |
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2009 |
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250,000 |
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250,000 |
|
CEO and CFO |
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2008 |
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250,000 |
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|
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250,000 |
|
Grants of Plan Based Awards - The Company did not grant any plan based awards to Mr. Harding
during the year ended August 31, 2010. Therefore, the Company omitted the Grants of Plan Based
Awards Table.
Outstanding
Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End - Mr. Harding did not have any outstanding equity
awards at August 31, 2010. Therefore, the Company omitted the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal
Year-End table.
Option
Exercise and Stock Vested - Mr. Harding did not exercise any options or have any stock vest
during the year ended August 31, 2010. Therefore, the Company omitted the Option Exercise and
Stock Vested table.
Pension Benefits - The Company does not offer pension benefits. Therefore, the Company omitted
the Pension Benefits Table.
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation - The Company does not have any non-qualified deferred
compensation plans. Therefore, the Company has omitted the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation
Table.
Termination or Change-in-Control Payments - The Company does not have any plan or arrangement that
provides for payments to the executive officer in connection with a termination or change of
control.
- 12 -
Compensation Committee Report1
The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis with
management, and based on the Committees review and discussion with management, has recommended to
the full board of directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in the
Companys Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting.
Respectfully submitted by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors
/s/ George M. Middlemas (Chairman)
/s/ Harry H. Augur
/s/ Arthur G. Epker III
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE1
The Audit Committee of the board of directors is comprised of independent directors and operates
under a written charter adopted by the board of directors. The Audit Committee charter is
reassessed and updated as needed in accordance with applicable rules of the SEC and The NASDAQ
Stock Market.
The Audit Committee serves in an oversight capacity. Management is responsible for the Companys
internal controls over financial reporting. The independent auditors are responsible for performing
an independent audit of the Companys financial statements in accordance with the standards of the
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) and issuing a report thereon. The Audit
Committees primary responsibility is to monitor and oversee these processes and to select and
retain the Companys independent auditors. In fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, the Audit
Committee reviewed with management the Companys audited financial statements and discussed not
only the acceptability but also the quality of the accounting principles, the reasonableness of the
significant judgments and estimates, critical accounting policies and the clarity of disclosures in
the audited financial statements prior to issuance.
The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements as of and for the year
ended August 31, 2010 with the Companys independent auditors, GHP Horwath P.C. (GHP), and
discussed not only the acceptability but also the quality of the accounting principles, the
reasonableness of the significant judgments and estimates, critical accounting policies and the
clarity of disclosures in the audited financial statements prior to issuance. The Audit Committee
meets with GHP, with and without management present, to discuss the results of their examination
and their evaluation of the Companys internal controls, and the overall quality of the Companys
financial reporting. The Audit Committee discussed and reviewed with GHP all communications
required by generally accepted auditing standards, including those described in Statement on
Auditing Standards (SAS) No. 61, as amended (AICPA, Professional Standards, Vol. 1, AU
Section 380), as adopted by the PCAOB in Rule 3200T. GHP also provided the Audit Committee the
written disclosures and the letter required by the applicable requirements of the PCAOB for
independent auditor communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence. The Audit
Committee also confirmed GHPs independence with GHP.
Based on the foregoing, the Audit Committee recommended to the board of directors that the
Companys audited financial statements be included in the Companys Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended August 31, 2010.
/s/ Peter C. Howell
/s/ Harrison H. Augur
/s/ Richard L. Guido
|
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1 |
|
These reports are not soliciting material,
are not deemed filed with the Commission and are not to be incorporated by
reference in any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, irrespective of
any general incorporation language in any such filing, except to the extent the
Company specifically references one of these reports. |
- 13 -
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Agreements with Related Parties
Tap Participation Fee Payments - On August 31, 2006, pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement (the
Arkansas River Agreement) with HP A&M, the Company purchased approximately 60,000 acre feet of
water rights in the Arkansas River and other related assets. As consideration for these assets,
the Company issued HP A&M 3,000,000 shares of its common stock. The Company also granted HP A&M
the right to receive ten percent (10%) of gross proceeds, or the equivalent thereof, from the sale
of the next 40,000 water taps (the Tap Participation Fee), which was valued at approximately
$45.6 million at the acquisition date. The Tap Participation Fee is due and payable once the
Company sells a water tap and receives the consideration due for such water tap. The Company did
not sell any water taps during the year ended August 31, 2010 or 2009. However, during fiscal
2009, the Company did make Tap Participation Fee payments to HP A&M as a result of non-irrigated
land sales which are discussed in greater detail in Note 7 Long-Term Debt and Operating Lease to
the Companys 2010 Annual Report on Form 10-K. As a result of the acquisition, HP A&M owns 13.6%
of the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company.
Convertible Negotiable Promissory Note - Effective September 28, 2010, the Company issued a
Convertible Negotiable Promissory Note to PIP, an approximately 18% shareholder of the Company.
See Proposal 3 for a detailed description of this transaction.
Stock Purchase Pursuant to the Companys Public Offering - In connection with the Companys
September 28, 2010, offering of 1,923,931 shares of the Companys common stock, the Companys
Chairman of the board, Mr. Augur, proposed to purchase 13,333 shares (or $40,000) in the offering
and PIP proposed to purchase 930,633 shares (or $2,791,899) in the offering at the offering price
of $3.00 per share. The Audit Committee discussed and evaluated the proposed purchases in
accordance with the Companys Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the Audit Committee Charter,
as described below. The Audit Committee approved the purchases after determining that the terms
and conditions of the purchases were fair to the Company and its shareholders and that the
purchases were in the Companys best interest.
Review and Approval of Related Party Transactions
It is the Companys policy as set forth in its Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that actual or
apparent conflicts of interest are to be avoided if possible and must be disclosed to the board of
directors. Pursuant to the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, any transaction involving a
related party must be reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee. Additionally, the Audit
Committee Charter requires the Audit Committee to review any transaction involving the Company and
a related party at least once a year or upon any significant change in the transaction or
relationship. The Code also provides non-exclusive examples of conduct which would involve a
potential conflict of interest and requires any material transaction involving a potential conflict
of interest to be approved in advance by the board. If a waiver from the Code is granted to an
executive officer or director, the nature of the waiver will be disclosed on the Companys website,
in a press release, or on a current report on Form 8-K.
The Company annually requires each of its directors and executive officers to complete a directors
and officers questionnaire that solicits information about related party transactions. The
Companys board of directors and outside legal counsel review all transactions and relationships
disclosed in the directors and officers questionnaire, and the board makes a formal determination
regarding each directors independence. If a director is determined to no longer be independent,
such director, if he or she serves on any of the Audit Committee, the Nominating Committee, or the
Compensation Committee, will be removed from such committee prior to (or otherwise will not
participate in) any future meeting of the committee. If the transaction presents a conflict of
interest, the board of directors will determine the appropriate response.
- 14 -
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
(Proposal No. 1)
As of the date of the Meeting, the number of members of the board of directors will be fixed at
seven. The board of directors nominates the following persons currently serving on the board for
reelection to the board: Mark W. Harding, Harrison H. Augur, Arthur G. Epker III, Richard L.
Guido, Peter C. Howell, George M. Middlemas and H. Hunter White III.
Set forth below are the names of all nominees for director, all positions and offices with the
Company held by each such person, the period during which each has served as such, and the
principal occupations and employment of such persons during at least the last five years, as well
as additional information regarding the skills, knowledge and experience with respect to each
nominee which has led the board of directors to conclude that each such nominee should be elected
or re-elected as a director of the Company.
Mark W. Harding. Mr. Harding joined the Company in April 1990 as Corporate Secretary and Chief
Financial Officer. He was appointed President of the Company in April 2001, Chief Executive
Officer in April 2005, and a member of the board of directors in February 2004. Mr. Harding brings
a background in investment banking and public finance, having worked from 1988 to 1990 for Price
Waterhouses management consulting services where he assisted clients in public finance and other
investment banking related services. In determining Mr. Hardings qualifications to on the board of
directors, the board of directors considered, among other things, that Mr. Harding is the President
and a board member of the Rangeview Metropolitan District and serves on a number of advisory boards
relating to water and wastewater issues in the Denver region, including a statewide roundtable
created by the Colorado legislature charged with identifying ways in which Colorado can address the
water shortages facing Front Range cities including Denver and Colorado Springs. Mr. Harding earned
a B.S. Degree in Computer Science and a Masters in Business Administration in Finance from the
University of Denver.
Harrison H. Augur. Mr. Augur joined the board and was elected Chairman in April 2001. For more than
20 years, Mr. Augur has been involved with investment management and venture capital investment
groups. Mr. Augur has been a general partner of CA Partners since 1987, and general partner of
Patience Partners LLC since 1999. Mr. Augur received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale
University, an LLB degree from Columbia University School of Law, and an LLM degree from New York
University School of Law. In determining Mr. Augurs qualifications to serve on the board of
directors, the board of directors has considered, among other things, his extensive experience and
expertise in finance and law.
Arthur G. Epker III. Mr. Epker was appointed to the board in August 2007. Since 1992, Mr. Epker
has been a Vice President and partner of PAR Capital Management, Inc., a private investment company
located in Boston, MA. Mr. Epker is also a portfolio manager over a portion of the assets of PAR
Investment Partners, L.P., a private 3(c)7 investment company. Mr. Epker received his
undergraduate degree in computer science and economics with highest distinction from the University
of Michigan and received a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School. In
determining Mr. Epkers qualifications to serve on the board of directors, the board of
directors has considered, among other things, his extensive experience and expertise in finance and
investment management.
Richard L. Guido. Mr. Guido served as a member of the Companys board from July 1996 through
August 31, 2003, and rejoined the board in 2004. Mr. Guido was an employee of Inco Limited, a
Canadian mining company (now known as Vale Inco), from 1980 through February 2004. He previously
served on the Companys board pursuant to a voting agreement between Inco and the Company. That
agreement is no longer in effect. Mr. Guido was Associate General Counsel of DeltaCom, Inc., a
telecommunications company, from March 2006 to March 2007, and prior to that Mr. Guido was
Associate General Counsel of Inco Limited and President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of Inco
United States, Inc., now known as Vale Inco Americas, Inc. Mr. Guido received a Bachelor of
Science degree from the United States Air Force Academy, a Master of Arts degree from Georgetown
University, and a Juris Doctor degree from the Catholic University of
America. In determining Mr. Guidos qualifications to serve on the board of directors, the board of directors has
considered, among other things, his extensive experience and expertise in finance, law and natural
resource development.
- 15 -
Peter C. Howell. Mr. Howell was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board in February 2005. From
1997 to present, Mr. Howell has served as an advisor to various business enterprises in the area of
acquisitions, marketing and financial reporting. From August 1994 to August 1997, Mr. Howell served
as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Signature Brands USA, Inc. (formerly known as
Health-O-Meter), and from 1989 to 1994 Mr. Howell served as Chief Executive Officer and a director
of Mr. Coffee, Inc. Mr. Howell is a member of the board of directors of Libbey, Inc., Global Lite
Array Inc. (a subsidiary of Global-Tech Advanced Innovations Inc.) and two private companies.
Mr. Howell received a Master of Arts degree in Economics from Cambridge University. In
determining Mr. Howells qualifications to serve on the board of directors, the board of
directors has considered, among other things, his extensive experience and expertise in finance and
financial reporting as well as his general business expertise.
George M. Middlemas. Mr. Middlemas has been a director since April 1993. Mr. Middlemas has been a
general partner with Apex Venture Partners, a diversified venture capital management group, since
1991. From 1985 to 1991, Mr. Middlemas was Senior Vice President of Inco Venture Capital
Management, primarily involved in venture capital investments for Inco Securities Corporation. From
1979 to 1985, Mr. Middlemas was Vice President and a member of the Investment Committee of Citicorp
Venture Capital Ltd., where he sourced, evaluated and completed investments for Citicorp. Mr.
Middlemas is a member of the Pennsylvania State University-Library Development Board and Athletic
Committee and is a board member of the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago. Mr. Middlemas received a
Bachelors degree in History and Political Science from Pennsylvania State University, a Masters
degree in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Business
Administration from Harvard Business School. In determining Mr. Middlemass qualifications to
serve on the board of directors, the board of directors has considered, among other things, his
extensive experience and expertise in finance and investment management.
H. Hunter White, III. Mr. White is a director nominee not currently serving on the board. Mr.
White is a founder of HP A&M, established in 2001, and since that date he has been the manager of
HP A&M. HP A&M is a developer of tributary and non-tributary water and water related assets in
Colorado. Since 1978 Mr. White has been an independent investor involved in a wide variety of
business ventures. Mr. White is primarily a natural resources developer, including real estate
development, oil and gas exploration and production, and water resources. Mr. White is also active
with cellular telephone start ups, radio station ownership, hotel development, and buyouts and
business startups. Mr. White serves on the board of directors for one private company. Mr. White
is involved in a number of civic and cultural organizations and is a current board member and past
Vice President of the New Orleans Museum of Art. Mr. White received a bachelors degree from
Louisiana State University. In determining Mr. Whites qualifications to serve on the board
of directors, the board of directors has considered, among other things, his extensive experience
and expertise in investment management, real estate development and water resource development.
The proxy cannot be voted for more than the seven nominees named. Directors are elected for
one-year terms or until the next annual meeting of the shareholders and until their successors are
elected and qualified. All of the nominees have expressed their willingness to serve, but if
because of circumstances not contemplated, one or more nominees is not available for election, the
proxy holders named in the enclosed proxy card intend to vote for such other person or persons as
the Nominating Committee may nominate.
HP A&M Director Nominee
The Arkansas River Agreement obligates the Company to nominate and solicit proxies for a director
nominee designated by HP A&M through the earlier of (i) the date on which the Company fully
discharges its obligation to pay the Tap Participation Fee or (ii) August 31, 2011. In addition,
Mr. Harding agreed to vote his shares of common stock in favor of the director nominee of HP A&M
pursuant to a Voting Agreement for the same period that the Company is obligated to solicit proxies
for the HP A&M director nominee. HP A&M designated Mr. White as its nominee to the board of
directors for this election.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT THE SHAREHOLDERS VOTE FOR THE ELECTION AS DIRECTORS OF THE
SEVEN PERSONS NOMINATED.
- 16 -
RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
(Proposal No. 2)
Action is to be taken by the shareholders at the Meeting with respect to the ratification and
approval of the selection by the Audit Committee of the Companys board of directors of GHP
Horwath, P.C. (GHP) to be the independent auditors of the Company for the fiscal year ending
August 31, 2011. In the event of a negative vote on such ratification, the Audit Committee of the
board of directors will reconsider its selection. A representative of GHP is expected to be
present at the Meeting. The GHP representative will have the opportunity to make a statement if he
or she desires to do so, and is expected to be available to respond to appropriate questions.
The Audit Committee reviews and approves in advance the audit scope, the types of non-audit
services, if any, and the estimated fees for each category for the coming year. For each category
of proposed service, GHP is required to confirm that the provision of such services does not impair
their independence. Before selecting GHP, the Audit Committee carefully considered that firms
qualifications as an independent registered public accounting firm for the Company. This included a
review of its performance in prior years, as well as its reputation for integrity and competence in
the fields of accounting and auditing. The Audit Committee has expressed its satisfaction with GHP
in all of these respects. The Audit Committees review included inquiry concerning any litigation
involving GHP and any proceedings by the SEC against the firm.
GHP reported that the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over
financial reporting as of August 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal
ControlIntegrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission (COSO).
GHP has no direct or indirect financial interest in the Company and does not have any connection
with the Company in the capacity of promoter, underwriter, voting trustee, director, officer or
employee. Neither the Company, nor any officer, director nor associate of the Company has any
interest in GHP.
Fees - For the fiscal years ended August 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company was billed the following
audit, audit-related, tax and other fees by its independent registered public accountant. The
Audit Committee approved 100% of these fees in accordance with the Audit Committee Charter. The
audit related fees are comprised entirely of fees for assistance with consultations with the Staff
of the Office of the Chief Accountant of the SEC.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal year ended August 31, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Audit Fees |
|
$ |
57,200 |
|
|
$ |
62,900 |
|
Audit Related Fees |
|
$ |
5,800 |
|
|
$ |
4,000 |
|
Tax |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
All Other Fees |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Pre-Approval Policy - The Audit Committee has established a pre-approval policy in its charter. In
accordance with the policy, the Audit Committee pre-approves all audit, non-audit and internal
control related services provided by the independent auditors prior to the engagement of the
independent auditors with respect to such services.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF THE
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS.
- 17 -
ISSUANCE OF SHARES OF COMMON STOCK UPON CONVERSION OF CONVERTIBLE NEGOTIABLE PROMISSORY NOTE
(Proposal No. 3)
Effective September 28, 2010, the Company issued a Convertible Negotiable Promissory Note (the
Note) to PIP, an approximately 18% shareholder of the Company. The Note: (i) has a face value of
$5.2 million, (ii) accrues simple interest at 10% per annum, (iii) interest from the issuance date
of the Note through April 1, 2011 is due on April 1, 2011 with monthly interest payments due the
first day of each month following April 1, 2011 until the Note matures on January 15, 2012, (iv)
is unsecured, and (v) if approved by the Companys shareholders, will be converted to unregistered
common stock of the Company at a conversion price of $2.70 per share. The conversion price was set
at 90% of the price per share at which the Company priced shares in its public offering which
commenced on the same date. The board of directors determined that a discount of 10% of the
offering price was appropriate because the shares which would be issued upon conversion are
unregistered and therefore subject to limitations on transferability. The last reported sales
price of the common stock on The NASDAQ Stock Market on September 27, 2010, the day before the Note
was issued was $2.70 per share.
The Company received $5.2 million from PIP upon issuance of the Note. The $5.2 million, along with
the approximately $5.5 million raised in the public offering, were used to finance the Companys
acquisition of a note payable and deed of trust granted by Sky Ranch, LLC, which ultimately enabled
the Company to obtain title to approximately 940 acres of land known as Sky Ranch. The Sky Ranch
acquisition is described in more detail in the Companys 2010 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The
proceeds remaining after the Sky Ranch acquisition will be used for working capital and other
corporate purposes. The issuance of the Note was approved by the Audit Committee after it
determined that the issuance was fair to the Company and its shareholders and in the Companys best
interest, in accordance with the provisions of the Companys Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
and the Audit Committee Charter applicable to related party transactions.
Shareholder approval of the issuance of the shares upon conversion of the Note is required pursuant
to the rules of The NASDAQ Stock Market. If the shareholders approve conversion of the Note at the
Meeting on January 11, 2011, the $5.2 million Note, plus unpaid and accrued interest of $151,667
(total principal and interest of $5,351,667), would convert into 1,982,099 shares of the Companys
common stock. Following this conversion, the Company would have 24,037,596 shares outstanding, of
which PAR would own 5,982,970 or 24.9% of the Companys outstanding shares.
If the Companys shareholders do not approve the conversion of the Note to common stock, the Note
would require the following payments:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ending: |
|
Principal Payments |
|
|
Interest Payments |
|
|
Total Payments |
|
August 31, 2011 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
486,800 |
|
|
$ |
486,800 |
|
August 31, 2012 |
|
|
5,200,000 |
|
|
|
197,900 |
|
|
|
5,397,900 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total payments |
|
$ |
5,200,000 |
|
|
$ |
684,700 |
|
|
$ |
5,884,700 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If the conversion is not approved, the Company may be required to seek additional debt or equity
financing to repay the Note when it becomes due. In conjunction with the Note, the Company granted
PAR one demand right and certain piggyback rights to register the shares of common stock issuable
upon conversion of the Note. There are no preemptive rights associated with the Company common
stock.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE NOTE TO COMMON STOCK.
- 18 -
ACTION TO BE TAKEN UNDER THE PROXY
The proxy will be voted FOR approval of proposals 2 and 3, and FOR the directors nominated by
the board, unless the proxy is marked in such a manner as to withhold authority to so vote. The
proxy will also be voted in connection with the transaction of such other business as may properly
come before the Meeting or any adjournment or adjournments thereof. Management knows of no other
matters, other than the matters set forth above, to be considered at the Meeting. If, however, any
other matters properly come before the Meeting or any adjournment thereof, the persons named in the
accompanying proxy will vote such proxy in accordance with their best judgment on any such matter.
The persons named in the accompanying proxy will also, if in their judgment it is deemed to be
advisable, vote to adjourn the Meeting from time to time.
OTHER INFORMATION
Section 16 (a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
The Companys directors and executive officers and persons who are beneficial owners of more than
10% of common stock are required to file reports of their holdings and transactions in common stock
with the SEC and furnish the Company with such reports. Based solely upon the review of the copies
of the Section 16(a) reports received by the Company and written representations from these
persons, the Company believes that during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010, all the directors,
executive officers and 10% beneficial owners complied with the applicable Section 16(a) filing
requirements, except that the stock purchase made by Mr. Augur on September 28, 2010 in the
Companys registered stock offering was reported late on a Form 4 filed on October 6, 2010. The
Company files the Form 4 with respect to stock purchases made on behalf of the directors.
Shareholder Proposals
Shareholder proposals for inclusion in the Proxy Statement for the 2012 annual meeting of
shareholders must be received at the principal executive offices of the Company by August 4, 2011
but not before June 5, 2011. For more information refer to the Companys Bylaws which were filed
as Appendix C to the Registration Statement on Form SB-2/A filed with the SEC on June 10, 2004.
The Company is not required to include proposals received outside of these dates in the proxy
materials for the 2012 annual meeting of shareholders, and any such proposals shall be considered
untimely. The persons named in the proxy will have discretionary authority to vote all proxies
with respect to any untimely proposals.
Delivery of Materials to Shareholders with Shared Addresses
The Company utilizes a procedure approved by the SEC called householding, which reduces printing
and postage costs. Shareholders who have the same address and last name will receive one copy of
the Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials or one set of printed proxy
materials unless one or more of these shareholders has provided contrary instructions.
If you wish to receive a separate copy of the proxy statement or the Notice of the Companys Annual
Report on Form 10-K, or if you are receiving multiple copies and would like to receive a single
copy, please contact the Companys transfer agent at Computershare Trust Company, Inc., 350 Indiana
St., Suite #800, Golden, Colorado 80401, telephone (303) 262-0600 or 1-800-962-4284, or write to or
call the Companys Secretary at the Companys address or phone number set forth above, and the
Company will undertake to deliver such documents promptly. If your shares are owned through a
bank, broker or other nominee, you may request householding by contacting the nominee.
Form 10-K and Related Exhibits
The Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K is available, free of charge, at the Companys website,
www.purecyclewater.com, or at the SECs website, www.sec.gov. In addition, the Company will
furnish a copy of its Form 10-K to any shareholder free of charge and a copy of any exhibit to the
Form 10-K upon payment of the Companys reasonable expenses incurred in furnishing such exhibit(s).
You may request a copy of the Form 10-K or any exhibit thereto by writing the Companys Secretary
at: Pure Cycle
Corporation, 500 E. 8th Ave, Suite 201, Denver, CO 80203, or by sending an email to
info@purecyclewater.com. The information on the Companys website is not part of this proxy
statement.
- 19 -
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Shareholders should review the following items included in the Companys 2010 Annual Report on Form
10-K, which is provided with this proxy statement, and such items are incorporated by reference
herein:
Item 7 Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Item 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
- 20 -