<PAGE>
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
---------------------
FORM 10-Q
---------------------
(Mark one)
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 1997
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number 1-7150
BELL ATLANTIC - WEST VIRGINIA, INC.
A West Virginia Corporation I.R.S. Employer Identification No. 55-0142020
1500 MacCorkle Avenue, S.E., Charleston, West Virginia 25314
Telephone Number (304) 343-9911
---------------------
THE REGISTRANT, A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF BELL ATLANTIC CORPORATION, MEETS
THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN GENERAL INSTRUCTION H(1)(a) AND (b) OF FORM 10-Q AND
IS THEREFORE FILING THIS FORM WITH REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT PURSUANT TO GENERAL
INSTRUCTION H(2).
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No
----- -----
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND REINVESTED EARNINGS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three months ended Six months ended
June 30, June 30,
------------------ ------------------
1997 1996 1997 1996
-------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES (including $9,242, $7,738,
$18,044 and $15,454 from affiliates)................. $144,750 $150,492 $287,726 $296,701
-------- -------- -------- --------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Employee costs, including benefits and taxes......... 25,855 27,632 50,788 53,929
Depreciation and amortization........................ 31,564 31,789 62,752 63,415
Other (including $30,372, $31,286, $60,051 and
$62,427 to affiliates).......................... 49,069 54,901 99,051 106,373
-------- -------- -------- --------
106,488 114,322 212,591 223,717
-------- -------- -------- --------
OPERATING INCOME.......................................... 38,262 36,170 75,135 72,984
OTHER INCOME, NET (including $749, $271,
$1,319 and $571 from affiliate)...................... 805 122 1,039 333
INTEREST EXPENSE.......................................... 4,593 4,399 9,129 8,797
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income Before Provision for Income Taxes and
Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle.. 34,474 31,893 67,045 64,520
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES................................ 13,395 12,322 26,222 25,322
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Change
in Accounting Principle.............................. 21,079 19,571 40,823 39,198
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF CHANGE IN
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE
Directory Publishing, Net of Tax..................... --- --- --- 1,979
-------- -------- -------- --------
NET INCOME................................................ $ 21,079 $ 19,571 $ 40,823 $ 41,177
======== ======== ======== ========
REINVESTED EARNINGS
At beginning of period............................... $ 8,253 $ 24,639 $ 5,587 $ 17,538
Add: net income..................................... 21,079 19,571 40,823 41,177
------- ------- -------- --------
29,332 44,210 46,410 58,715
Deduct: dividend.................................... 14,700 29,800 29,700 43,800
other changes............................... 347 --- 2,425 505
-------- -------- -------- --------
At end of period..................................... $ 14,285 $ 14,410 $ 14,285 $ 14,410
======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
1
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in Thousands)
ASSETS
------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30, December 31,
1997 1996
---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS
Short-term investments......................... $ 7,370 $ 10,538
Note receivable from affiliate................. 54,662 33,823
Accounts receivable:
Trade and other, net of allowances for
uncollectibles of $5,203 and $5,421.. 86,965 94,949
Affiliates................................ 6,026 6,486
Material and supplies.......................... 4,905 4,187
Prepaid expenses............................... 3,903 6,253
Deferred income taxes.......................... 925 ---
---------- ----------
164,756 156,236
---------- ----------
PLANT, PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT.................. 1,705,775 1,667,139
Less accumulated depreciation.................. 988,983 933,797
---------- ----------
716,792 733,342
---------- ----------
OTHER ASSETS................................... 5,599 4,124
---------- ----------
TOTAL ASSETS................................... $ 887,147 $ 893,702
========== ==========
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
2
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in Thousands)
LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT
---------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30, December 31,
1997 1996
--------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Debt maturing within one year.................. $ 46 $ 44
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Affiliates................................ 49,726 56,198
Other..................................... 69,371 77,048
Other liabilities.............................. 15,163 15,468
-------- --------
134,306 148,758
-------- --------
LONG-TERM DEBT................................. 264,096 264,066
-------- --------
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS................... 137,453 141,392
-------- --------
DEFERRED CREDITS AND OTHER LIABILITIES
Deferred income taxes.......................... 28,762 33,720
Unamortized investment tax credits............. 7,489 8,246
Other.......................................... 29,272 20,449
-------- --------
65,523 62,415
-------- --------
SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT
Common stock - one share, owned by
parent, at stated value................... 264,065 264,065
Capital surplus................................ 7,419 7,419
Reinvested earnings............................ 14,285 5,587
-------- --------
285,769 277,071
-------- --------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT.. $887,147 $893,702
======== ========
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
3
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six months ended
June 30,
----------------------
1997 1996
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES.......... $ 101,197 $ 87,302
--------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net change in short-term investments............... 3,168 (3,076)
Additions to plant, property and equipment......... (46,278) (34,201)
Net change in note receivable from affiliate....... (20,839) (7,540)
Other, net......................................... (87) 801
--------- ---------
Net cash used in investing activities.............. (64,036) (44,016)
--------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Principal repayments of capital lease obligations.. (21) (10)
Dividends paid..................................... (29,700) (43,800)
Net change in outstanding checks drawn
on controlled disbursement accounts........... (7,440) 524
--------- ---------
Net cash used in financing activities.............. (37,161) (43,286)
--------- ---------
NET CHANGE IN CASH................................. --- --
CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD.......................... --- ---
--------- ---------
CASH, END OF PERIOD................................ $ --- $ ---
========= =========
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
4
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The Company has prepared the accompanying unaudited financial statements
based upon Securities and Exchange Commission rules that permit reduced
disclosure for interim periods. Management believes that these financial
statements reflect all adjustments which are necessary for a fair presentation
of the Company's results of operations and financial position, which consist of
only normal recurring accruals. For a more complete discussion of significant
accounting policies and certain other information, refer to the financial
statements filed with the Company's 1996 Form 10-K.
2. DIVIDEND
On August 1, 1997, the Company declared and paid a dividend in the amount
of $25,000,000 to Bell Atlantic Corporation (Bell Atlantic).
3. TRANSFER OF DIRECTORY PUBLISHING ACTIVITIES
On January 1, 1997, the Company transferred, at net book value without gain
or loss, certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing
activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary. The stock of the
subsidiary was immediately distributed to Bell Atlantic. The transfer of such
assets and liabilities was completed as part of Bell Atlantic and the Company's
response to the requirements of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which
prohibits the Company from engaging in electronic publishing or joint sales and
marketing of electronic products.
Net assets transferred by the Company totaled approximately $2,000,000, and
consisted of deferred directory production costs (included in prepaid expenses),
fixed assets, and related deferred tax liabilities.
Revenues and direct expenses related to the Company's directory publishing
activities transferred were approximately $18,000,000 and $8,200,000,
respectively, for the six month period ended June 30, 1996. The Company does not
separately identify indirect expenses attributable to the directory publishing
activities, including expenses related to billing and data management and
processing services, legal, external affairs, depreciation, interest expense and
any corresponding tax expense.
4. PROPOSED BELL ATLANTIC - NYNEX MERGER
Bell Atlantic and NYNEX Corporation announced a proposed merger of equals
under a definitive merger agreement entered into on April 21, 1996 and amended
on July 2, 1996. At special meetings held in November 1996, stockholders of both
companies approved the merger. The completion of the merger is subject to the
Federal Communications Commission's approval, which is expected to be received
shortly.
5
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations
(Abbreviated pursuant to General Instruction H(2).)
This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements
and Notes to Financial Statements.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
- ---------------------
The Company reported net income of $40,823,000 for the six month period
ended June 30, 1997, compared to net income of $41,177,000 for the same period
in 1996.
Transfer of Directory Publishing Activities
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On January 1, 1997, the Company transferred, at net book value without gain
or loss, certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing
activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary. The stock of the
subsidiary was immediately distributed to Bell Atlantic. The transfer of such
assets and liabilities was completed as part of Bell Atlantic and the Company's
response to the requirements of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which
prohibits the Company from engaging in electronic publishing or joint sales and
marketing of electronic products.
Net assets transferred by the Company totaled approximately $2,000,000, and
consisted of deferred directory production costs (included in prepaid expenses),
fixed assets, and related deferred tax liabilities.
Revenues and direct expenses related to the Company's directory publishing
activities transferred were approximately $18,000,000 and $8,200,000,
respectively, for the six month period ended June 30, 1996. The Company does
not separately identify indirect expenses attributable to the directory
publishing activities, including expenses related to billing and data management
and processing services, legal, external affairs, depreciation, interest expense
and any corresponding tax expense.
Effective January 1, 1997, revenues from directory publishing activities
transferred are no longer earned, and the related expenses are no longer
incurred, by the Company. Certain other revenues, primarily fees for non-
publication of telephone numbers and multiple white page listings continue to be
earned by the Company. Additionally, contracts between the Company and another
affiliate of Bell Atlantic for billing and collection services related to the
directory activities, use of directory listings, and rental charges have created
new revenue sources for the Company.
Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting - Directory Publishing
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Company changed its method of accounting for directory publishing
revenues and expenses, effective January 1, 1996. The Company adopted the point-
of-publication method, which requires directory revenues and expenses to be
recognized upon publication rather than over the lives of the directories. The
Company recorded an after-tax increase in income of $1,979,000 in the first
quarter of 1996, representing the cumulative effect of this accounting change.
Results of operations for the first three quarters of 1996 were restated to
reflect the impact of this change.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain other items affecting the comparison of the Company's results of
operations for the six month periods ended June 30, 1997 and 1996 are discussed
in the following sections. This Management's Discussion and Analysis should
also be read in conjunction with the Company's 1996 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
6
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPERATING REVENUES
- ------------------
(Dollars in Thousands)
Six Month Period Ended June 30 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Transport services
Local service......................... $135,260 $130,504
Network access........................ 86,392 82,858
Toll service.......................... 26,564 30,677
Ancillary services
Directory publishing.................. 1,835 19,309
Other................................. 10,267 7,488
Value-added services...................... 27,408 25,865
-------- ----------
Total..................................... $287,726 $296,701
======== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TRANSPORT SERVICES OPERATING STATISTICS
- ------------------------------------------
Percentage
Increase
1997 1996 (Decrease)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
At June 30
- ----------
Access Lines in Service (in thousands)
Residence............................ 581 572 1.6%
Business............................. 201 189 6.3
Public............................... 10 10 ---
----- ------
792 771 2.7
===== ======
Six Month Period Ended June 30
- ------------------------------
Access Minutes of Use (in millions)
Interstate........................... 1,200 1,182 1.5
Intrastate........................... 292 264 10.6
----- ------
1,492 1,446 3.2
===== ======
Toll Messages (in thousands)
Intrastate........................... 20,834 21,984 (5.2)
Interstate........................... 1,501 1,461 2.7
------ ------
22,335 23,445 (4.7)
====== ======
</TABLE>
LOCAL SERVICE REVENUES
1997-1996 Increase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $ 4,756 3.6%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Local service revenues are earned by the Company from the provision of
local exchange, local private line and public telephone (pay phone) services.
Higher usage of the Company's network facilities was the primary reason for
the increase in local service revenues in the first six months of 1997. This
growth was generated by an increase in access lines in service of 2.7% from June
30, 1996. This access line growth primarily reflects higher demand for Centrex
services and an increase in second residential lines. Higher revenues from
private line and switched data services, and stronger business message volumes
also contributed to the revenue growth in 1997.
For a discussion of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which will open the
local exchange market to competition, see "Factors That May Impact Future
Results" beginning on page 11.
7
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
NETWORK ACCESS REVENUES
1997-1996 Increase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $3,534 4.3%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Network access revenues are earned from long distance carriers for their
use of the Company's local exchange facilities in providing long distance
services to their customers, and from end-user subscribers. Switched access
revenues are derived from usage-based charges paid by long distance carriers for
access to the Company's network. Special access revenues arise from access
charges paid by long distance carriers and end-users who have private networks.
End-user access revenues are earned from local exchange carrier customers who
pay for access to the network.
Network access revenues increased in the first six months of 1997
principally due to higher customer demand as reflected by growth in access
minutes of use of 3.2% from June 30, 1996. Volume growth was boosted by the
expansion of the business market, particularly for high capacity services.
Higher end-user revenues attributable to an increase in access lines in service
also contributed to revenue growth in 1997. This volume-related growth was
partially offset by net price reductions, principally for switched access
services. Reported growth in access minutes of use and revenues was negatively
affected by increased calling volumes during the first quarter of 1996 caused by
severe winter storms.
Effective July 1, 1997, the Company implemented price decreases of
approximately $9,000,000 on an annual basis for interstate services, in
connection with the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) price cap plan. It
is expected that these price decreases will be partially offset by volume
increases. For a further discussion of FCC rulemakings concerning price caps,
access charges and universal service, see "Factors That May Impact Future
Results - Recent Developments - FCC Orders" beginning on page 12.
TOLL SERVICE REVENUES
1997-1996 (Decrease)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $(4,113) (13.4)%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toll service revenues are earned primarily from calls made outside a
customer's local calling area, but within the same service area of the Company,
referred to as a Local Access and Transport Area (LATA). Other toll services
include 800 services and Wide Area Telephone Service (WATS).
The impact of increased competition for intraLATA toll and WATS services on
toll message volumes and company-initiated price reductions both contributed
equally to the reduction in toll service revenues in 1997. The effect of storm-
driven usage experienced in the first quarter of 1996 also impacted toll message
volumes, which declined 4.7% in 1997 as compared to 1996. The Company
implemented a discount offering to residential customers beginning in August
1996, as part of its response to competition, which is expected to reduce toll
service revenues by $3,000,000 annually.
The Company believes that competition for toll services, including the
introduction of presubscription in the third quarter of 1997, will continue to
impact future revenue trends. See "Factors That May Impact Future Results -
Competition - IntraLATA Toll Services" on page 13 for a further discussion of
presubscription.
DIRECTORY PUBLISHING REVENUES
1997-1996 (Decrease)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $(17,474) (90.5)%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As described earlier, the Company transferred certain assets and
liabilities associated with its directory publishing activities to a newly
formed, wholly owned subsidiary, effective January 1, 1997. As a result,
revenues associated with directory publishing activities transferred are no
longer earned by the Company. The Company's directory publishing revenues in
1997 are earned primarily from fees for non-publication of telephone numbers,
multiple white page listings and usage of directory listings.
The decrease in directory publishing revenues in the first six months of
1997 was principally due to the transfer of directory publishing activities.
8
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
OTHER ANCILLARY SERVICES REVENUES
1997-1996 Increase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $2,779 37.1%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Company provides other ancillary services which include billing and
collection services for long distance carriers, facilities rental services for
affiliates and non-affiliates, and sales of materials and supplies to
affiliates.
The increase in other ancillary services revenues in the first six months
of 1997 resulted principally from higher facilities rental revenues from
affiliates.
VALUE-ADDED SERVICES REVENUES
1997-1996 Increase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $1,543 6.0%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Value-added services are a family of services which expand the utilization
of the network. These services include products such as voice messaging
services, Caller ID, Call Waiting, and Return Call, as well as more mature
products such as Touch-Tone and customer premises wiring and maintenance
services.
Revenue growth from value-added services is principally the result of
increased marketing and promotional efforts which have stimulated customer
demand and usage. Demand for these services also has been fueled by the
introduction of new and enhanced optional features. These revenue increases
were partially offset by lower Touch-Tone service revenues. In accordance with
the Incentive Regulation Plan, the Company reduced its Touch-Tone service
charges by approximately $4,000,000 annually, effective December 31, 1996.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPERATING EXPENSES
- ------------------
(Dollars in Thousands)
Six Month Period Ended June 30 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Employee costs, including benefits and taxes.. $ 50,788 $ 53,929
Depreciation and amortization................. 62,752 63,415
Other operating expenses...................... 99,051 106,373
-------- --------
Total......................................... $212,591 $223,717
======== ========
</TABLE>
EMPLOYEE COSTS
1997-1996 (Decrease)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $(3,141) (5.8)%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Employee costs consist of salaries, wages and other employee compensation,
employee benefits and payroll taxes paid directly by the Company. Similar costs
incurred by employees of Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. (NSI), who provide
centralized services on a contract basis, are allocated to the Company and are
included in other operating expenses.
The decrease in employee costs was primarily due to lower benefit costs.
The reduction in benefit costs was caused by a number of factors, including an
increase in the discount rate used to develop pension and postretirement benefit
costs, favorable pension plan asset returns and lower than expected medical
claims. The Company expects the lower level of benefit costs to continue through
the third quarter of 1997. A decline in the level of employee costs incurred for
repair and maintenance activity also contributed to the expense reduction in
1997. This decline was partially due to the impact of the severe weather
experienced in the first quarter of 1996 which caused a higher level of costs to
be expensed during that period. These cost reductions were partially offset by
annual salary and wage increases and by higher overtime pay and the effect of
higher work force levels principally as a result of higher business volumes.
9
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
1997-1996 (Decrease)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $(663) (1.0)%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Company uses the composite group remaining life method to depreciate
plant assets. Under this method, the Company periodically revises depreciation
rates based on a number of factors. The composite depreciation rate was 7.5% for
the six month period ended June 30, 1997 compared to 7.9% for the same period in
1996.
Depreciation and amortization decreased in the first six months of 1997
principally due to the effect of lower rates of depreciation and amortization.
This decrease was substantially offset by growth in depreciable telephone plant.
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
1997-1996 (Decrease)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $(7,322) (6.9)%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other operating expenses consist of contract services including centralized
services expenses allocated from NSI, rent, network software costs, operating
taxes other than income, the provision for uncollectible accounts receivable,
and other costs.
As a result of the transfer of directory publishing activities, certain
direct and allocated expenses related to the activities transferred are no
longer incurred by the Company.
The decrease in other operating expenses was largely attributable to the
transfer of directory publishing activities.
OTHER INCOME, NET
1997-1996 Increase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $706
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The change in other income, net, was attributable to additional interest
income resulting from the purchase of short-term investments in December 1996 to
prefund a trust for the payment of certain employee benefits and related to a
note receivable from an affiliate. This increase was partially offset by the
effect of a gain recognized on the disposition of certain property in the first
quarter of 1996.
INTEREST EXPENSE
1997-1996 Increase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months $332 3.8%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest expense increased principally due to a reduction in capitalized
interest costs resulting from lower levels of telephone plant under
construction.
10
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
EFFECTIVE INCOME TAX RATES
Six Months Ended June 30
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 39.1%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 39.2%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The effective income tax rate is the provision for income taxes as a
percentage of income before provision for income taxes and cumulative effect of
change in accounting principle. The Company's effective income tax rate was
lower in the first six months of 1997 principally due to prior period
adjustments recorded in 1997.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
- -------------------
The Company uses the net cash generated from operations and from external
financing to fund capital expenditures for network expansion and modernization,
and pay dividends. The Company's sources of funds, primarily from operations
and, to the extent necessary, from readily available financing arrangements with
an affiliate, are sufficient to meet ongoing operating requirements. Management
expects that presently foreseeable capital requirements will continue to be
financed primarily through internally generated funds. Additional debt may be
needed to fund development activities or to maintain the Company's capital
structure to ensure financial flexibility.
As of June 30, 1997, the Company had $69,600,000 of an unused line of
credit with an affiliate, Bell Atlantic Network Funding Corporation. In
addition, the Company had $50,000,000 remaining under a shelf registration
statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the issuance of
unsecured debt securities.
The Company's debt ratio was 48.0% as of June 30, 1997, compared to 48.0%
as of June 30, 1996 and 48.8% as of December 31, 1996.
On August 1, 1997, the Company declared and paid a dividend in the amount
of $25,000,000 to Bell Atlantic.
FACTORS THAT MAY IMPACT FUTURE RESULTS
- --------------------------------------
The telecommunications industry is undergoing substantial changes as a
result of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (the Act), other public policy
changes and technological advances. These changes are likely to bring increased
competitive pressures in the Company's current business, but will also open new
markets to Bell Atlantic.
The Act became law on February 8, 1996 and replaced the Modification of
Final Judgment (MFJ). In general, the Act includes provisions that open local
exchange markets to competition and permit Bell Atlantic to provide interLATA
(long distance) services and to engage in manufacturing. However, the ability of
Bell Atlantic to engage in these new businesses, previously prohibited by the
MFJ, is largely dependent on satisfying certain conditions contained in the Act.
Among the requirements with which the Company must comply is a 14-point
"competitive checklist" which includes steps the Company must take which will
help competitors offer local service, either through resale, through the
purchase of unbundled network elements, or through their own networks. The
Company must also demonstrate to the FCC that its entry into the long distance
market would be in the public interest.
A U.S. Court of Appeals recently found that the FCC unlawfully attempted to
preempt state authority in implementing key provisions of the Act. It also
found that several particularly objectionable provisions of the FCC's rules
were inconsistent with the statutory requirements. In particular, it affirmed
that states have exclusive jurisdiction over the pricing of interconnection
elements and that the FCC could not lawfully allow competitors to "pick and
choose" isolated terms out of negotiated interconnection agreements. This
decision should not delay the advent of local competition, since, under the
previous stay of the FCC's rules, a number of interconnection agreements have
been concluded and the Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC) has
proceeded to adopt pricing and other standards for local interconnection.
Pursuant to the Act, on January 17, 1997, the Company filed its "Statement
of Generally Available Terms and Conditions for Interconnection, Unbundled
Network Elements, Ancillary Services and Resale of Telecommunications Services"
with the PSC.
11
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
The PSC issued orders on April 21, 1997 and on May 16, 1997 requiring certain
changes to the filing. The Company will incorporate these changes and will
refile the document. The PSC indicated that further hearings would not be
necessary if the changes are in compliance with its orders.
The Company is unable to predict definitively the impact that the Act will
have on its business, results of operations or financial condition. The
financial impact will depend on several factors, including the timing, extent
and success of competition in the Company's markets, and the timing, extent and
success of Bell Atlantic's pursuit of new business opportunities resulting from
the Act.
The Company anticipates that these industry changes, together with the
rapid growth, enormous size and global scope of these markets, will attract new
entrants and encourage existing competitors to broaden their offerings. Current
and potential competitors in telecommunication services include long distance
companies, other local telephone companies, cable companies, wireless service
providers, and other companies that offer network services. Some of these
companies have a strong market presence, brand recognition and existing customer
relationships, all of which contribute to intensifying competition and may
affect the Company's future revenue growth. See the "Competition" section below
for additional information.
Recent Developments - FCC Orders
On May 7, 1997, the FCC adopted orders to reform the interstate access
charge system, to modify its price cap system and to implement the "universal
service" requirements of the Act. While there are additional decisions pending
on Universal Service and Access Reform, based on the decisions to date the
Company does not believe that these proceedings will result in a material
adverse impact on its results of operations or financial condition.
Access Charges
Access charges are the rates long distance carriers pay for use and
availability of the Company's facilities for the origination and termination of
interstate interLATA service. On May 7, 1997, the FCC adopted changes to the
tariff structures it has prescribed for such charges in order to permit the
Company to recover its costs through rates which reflect the manner in which
those costs are incurred. As of January 1, 1998, the FCC will require, in
general, that interstate costs of the Company which do not vary based on usage
be recovered from long distance carriers through flat rate charges, and those
interstate costs that do vary based on usage be recovered from long distance
carriers through usage-based rates. In addition, the FCC will require
establishment of separate usage-based charges for originating and for
terminating interstate interLATA traffic.
A portion of the Company's interstate costs are also recovered through flat
monthly charges to subscribers (subscriber line charges). Under the FCC's
order, subscriber line charges for primary residential and single line
businesses will remain unchanged, but such charges for additional residential
lines and multi-line businesses will rise.
The restructuring of access charges in January 1998 is expected to be
revenue neutral to the Company.
Price Caps
The FCC also adopted modifications to its price cap rules that affect
access rate levels. Under the FCC's price cap rules, the Company's price cap
index is adjusted annually by an inflation index (GDP-PI) less a fixed
percentage intended to reflect increases in productivity (Productivity Factor).
In the prior year, the Company's Productivity Factor was 5.3%. Effective July 1,
1997, the FCC created a single Productivity Factor for all price cap companies
of 6.5%, and eliminated requirements to share a portion of future interstate
earnings. The FCC required that rates be set as if the higher Productivity
Factor had been in effect since July 1996. Any local exchange company that earns
a rate of return on its interstate services of less than 10.25% in any calendar
year will be permitted to increase its interstate rates in the following year.
The FCC also ordered elimination of recovery for amortized costs associated with
reconfiguration of the Company's network to provide equal access to facilities
for all long distance carriers.
On June 30, 1997, Bell Atlantic made its Annual Access Tariff Filing of
Interstate Rates, which became effective on July 1, 1997. The rates included in
the filing resulted in annual price decreases for the Company totaling
approximately $9,000,000, of which $1,900,000 is a result of one-time
adjustments which will only be in effect until July 1998.
12
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
The FCC is expected to adopt an order later this year to address the
conditions under which the FCC would relax or remove existing access rate
structure requirements and price cap restrictions as increased local market
competition develops. The Company is unable to predict the results of this
further proceeding.
Universal Service
The FCC also adopted rules designed to preserve "universal service" by
ensuring that a basket of designated services are widely available and
affordable to all customers, including low-income customers and customers in
areas that are expensive to serve. The FCC's universal service support will
approximate $1.5 billion for high cost areas pending completion of further FCC
proceedings. By the third quarter of 1998, the FCC, in conjunction with the
Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, will determine the methodology
for determining high cost areas for non-rural carriers, the proper amount of
federal universal service support for high cost areas, and how to assess the
appropriate level of federal financial support required to continue to ensure
affordable local telephone service. Any new high cost universal service support
mechanism will become effective January 1, 1999.
The FCC also adopted rules to implement the Act's requirements to provide
discounted telecommunications services to schools and libraries, beginning
January 1, 1998, and to ensure that not-for-profit rural health care providers
have access to such services at rates comparable to those charged their urban
counterparts.
All telecommunications carriers will be required to contribute funding for
these universal service programs. The federal universal service funding needs
as of January 1, 1998 will require the Company to contribute approximately 1% to
2% of its revenues for high cost and low income subsidies. The Company will
also be contributing about 5% for schools, libraries and not-for-profit health
care. The Company will, however, be afforded the opportunity to recover its
universal service contributions through higher interstate charges to long
distance carriers and end users.
Competition
IntraLATA Toll Services
IntraLATA toll services are calls that originate and terminate within the
same LATA, but cover a greater distance than a local call. These services are
generally regulated by the PSC rather than federal authorities. The PSC permits
other carriers to offer intrastate intraLATA toll services in the Company's
jurisdiction.
Currently, intraLATA toll calls are completed by the Company unless the
customer dials a code to access a competing carrier. This dialing method would
be changed by "presubscription," which would enable customers to make these toll
calls using another carrier without having to dial an access code.
The Act addressed the issue of presubscription by prohibiting a state from
requiring presubscription or "dialing parity" until the earlier of such time as
an operating telephone company is authorized to provide long distance services
originating in the state or three years from the effective date of the Act.
This prohibition does not apply to an order requiring presubscription that was
issued on or prior to December 19, 1995 or to states consisting of a single
LATA.
In December 1995, the PSC issued a final order directing the implementation
of presubscription within eighteen months of that order. The Company filed a
petition for review of that order with the West Virginia Supreme Court, which
was denied. In January 1997, the PSC extended the implementation date to August
15, 1997.
Implementation of presubscription for intraLATA toll services could have a
material negative effect on toll service revenues. Bell Atlantic expects to
petition the FCC for permission to enter the in-region long distance market in
one or more states in its jurisdiction in 1997. Bell Atlantic is unable to
predict when it will receive such permission. The adverse impact on toll service
revenues is expected to be partially offset by an increase in intraLATA access
revenues.
13
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Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
Local Exchange Services
Local exchange services have historically been subject to regulation by the
PSC. Applications from competitors to provide local exchange services have been
approved by the PSC.
The Act is expected to significantly increase the level of competition in
the Company's local exchange market.
OTHER MATTERS
- -------------
Proposed Bell Atlantic - NYNEX Merger
Bell Atlantic and NYNEX Corporation (NYNEX) announced a proposed merger of
equals under a definitive merger agreement entered into on April 21, 1996 and
amended on July 2, 1996. At special meetings held in November 1996,
stockholders of both companies approved the merger. The completion of the
merger is subject to the FCC's approval, which is expected to be received
shortly. In connection with the FCC's review of the proposed merger, Bell
Atlantic and NYNEX submitted a list of commitments they will follow to assure
competition in their local exchange markets. The Company does not expect these
commitments to have a material impact on its results of operations or financial
condition.
As a result of the merger, Bell Atlantic will incur special transition and
integration costs in connection with completing the transaction and integrating
the operations of Bell Atlantic and NYNEX. It is anticipated that the Company
will bear a portion of the transition and integration costs.
Bell Atlantic also expects to recognize recurring expense savings following
completion of the merger as a result of consolidating operating systems and
other administrative functions and reducing management positions. It is
anticipated that the Company will recognize a portion of these savings.
Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information contained above with respect to the expected financial impact
of the proposed merger, and other statements in this Management's Discussion and
Analysis regarding expected future events and financial results, are forward-
looking and subject to risks and uncertainties. For those statements, the
Company claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements
contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
The following important factors could affect the future results of the
Company and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed
in the forward-looking statements: (i) materially adverse changes in economic
conditions in the markets served by the Company; (ii) a significant further
delay in the expected closing of the merger; (iii) the final outcome of FCC
rulemakings with respect to interconnection agreements, access charge reform and
universal service; (iv) future state regulatory actions in the Company's
operating area; and (v) the extent, timing and success of competition from
others in the local telephone and toll service markets.
14
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
For background concerning the Company's contingent liabilities under
the Plan of Reorganization governing the divestiture by AT&T Corp.
(formerly American Telephone and Telegraph Company) of certain assets
of the former Bell System operating companies with respect to private
actions relating to pre-divestiture events, see Item 3 of the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
1996.
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits:
Exhibit Number
27 Financial Data Schedule.
(b) There were no Current Reports on Form 8-K filed during the
quarter ended June 30, 1997.
15
<PAGE>
Bell Atlantic - West Virginia, Inc.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
BELL ATLANTIC - WEST VIRGINIA, INC.
Date: August 8, 1997 By /s/ Ritchie A. Ireland, II
--------------------------------------------
Ritchie A. Ireland, II
Principal Financial Officer
and Controller
UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, ALL INFORMATION IS AS OF AUGUST 5, 1997.
16
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
STATEMENT OF INCOME FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997 AND THE BALANCE SHEET
AS OF JUNE 30, 1997 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1997
<PERIOD-END> JUN-30-1997
<CASH> 7,370
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 92,168
<ALLOWANCES> 5,203
<INVENTORY> 4,905
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 164,756
<PP&E> 1,705,775
<DEPRECIATION> 988,983
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 887,147
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 134,306
<BONDS> 264,096
0
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<COMMON> 264,065
<OTHER-SE> 21,704
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 887,147
<SALES> 0
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 287,726
<CGS> 0
<TOTAL-COSTS> 212,591
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<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 9,129
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<INCOME-TAX> 26,222
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 40,823
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