BCATO Opposes Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority Sale

 

The Bucks County Association of Township Officials (BACTO) sent an email to township officials – including supervisors – urging them to oppose the recently announced proposed sale of the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority (BCWSA) to the private company Aqua Pa. (read “Bucks County Moves Ahead on $1.1 Billion Offer to Sell Sewer System to Aqua Pa.”). The sale of BCWSA “raises grave concerns,” said BCATO.

BCATO supplied a sample letter that supervisors can send on behalf of the township to the Bucks County Commissioners expressing the township’s opposition to the sale. The letter states, in part:

At a time when costs are increasing for all Bucks County residents, through no fault of our local elected officials, residents can scarcely afford an increase in sewer fees.  Current inflation is at 9.1%, the highest rate since November of 1981.  Gas has increased from an average of $3.256 per gallon a year ago to $4.646 per gallon.  Food costs have increased between 6.5% and 7.5% since last year. 

The Board of Supervisors believes it is unconscionable for BCWSA to sell its assets to Aqua.  As former Township officials yourselves, we are certain you are cognizant of the fear of uncertainty such a potential sale causes sewer rate payers.  Please consider the long-term financial impacts that major increases in sewer rates will have on the residents and businesses being served and on Bucks County in general. 

The first opportunity for Newtown Supervisors to consider sending this letter will be at the August 10, 2022, public meeting (agenda not yet available).

Posted on 22 Jul 2022, 10:53 - Category: Environment