16.

ASSET IMPAIRMENTS AND OTHER ITEMS

Asset Impairment Charge

In April 2014, we initiated a plan to wind down the operations of CARES and to abandon the operations of CARES in fiscal year 2015. As a result, it was determined that the carrying value of the assets of CARES was no longer recoverable and, as a result, the carrying value of the asset group was assessed for impairment. The impairment was measured based on the asset group’s highest and best use under the market approach. We recorded an impairment charge of $7,455 in fiscal year 2014 to the asset group of CARES in the Western region.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, we entered into negotiations regarding the sale of Maine Energy. Based on the proposed purchase consideration, we reviewed the asset group for impairment and recorded a $40,746 impairment charge to the asset group located within the Eastern region. The impairment was measured based on the asset group’s highest and best use under the market approach, utilizing the discounted present cash flows associated with the purchase consideration of the facility, adjusted for costs to demolish the facility. We used a discount rate of 3.5%, which approximates the buyers borrowing rate. See Note 17 for disclosure over the Maine Energy divestiture transaction.

Development Project Charge

In fiscal year 2014 and 2012, we recorded charges of $1,394 and $131 for deferred costs associated with a gas pipeline development project in Maine no longer deemed viable in fiscal year 2014 and certain development projects no longer deemed viable in fiscal year 2012.

As of April 30, 2014 and April 30, 2013, we had $0 and $1,644 of deferred costs associated with development projects included in other non-current assets within our consolidated balance sheets.

Severance and Reorganization

In fiscal year 2014, we recorded a charge of $586 for severance costs associated with various planned reorganization efforts including the divestiture of Maine Energy Recovery Company, LP (“Maine Energy”).

In fiscal year 2013, we recorded a charge of $3,709 for severance costs associated primarily with the realignment of our operations in order to streamline functions and improve our cost structure, the closure of Maine Energy and a reorganization of senior management. Through the realignment of our operations we improved certain aspects of the sales function to better facilitate customer service and retention, pricing growth, and support of strategic growth initiatives; better aligned transportation, route management and maintenance functions at the local level; and reduced corporate overhead and staff to match organizational needs and reduce costs.

We have liabilities associated with severance and reorganization as of April 30, 2014 and 2013, which are recorded in other accrued liabilities, of $478 and $680.

Expense from Divestiture, Acquisition and Financing Costs

In fiscal year 2014, we incurred $144 of expenses primarily associated with legal costs for the acquisition of the remaining 50% membership interest of Tompkins. See Note 2 for disclosure over the acquisition of Tompkins.

In fiscal year 2013, we incurred $1,410 of expenses attributable to a $303 write-off of costs associated with the attempted refinancing of our Second Lien Notes, $602 of legal costs associated with the Maine Energy divestiture transaction, as discussed in Note 17, and $505 of costs associated with the BBI acquisition.

Legal Settlement

In fiscal year 2012, we recorded expenses totaling $1,359 attributable to a $359 legal settlement with the Town of Seneca, New York and a $1,000 legal settlement with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office.