Is it just me or does a lot need SAVING around here? The status quo isn’t cutting it.
I’ll fight for clean, reliable and AFFORDABLE water services
I’ll fight for PRESERVATION of Big Elk Creek State Park as a non-developed park without a noisy recreational complex
On June 8th, 2024, I attended the Public Water Independence Day event at the Octoraro Reservoir in support of the CWA. I was the only PA Senate candidate in attendance.
Tonight I was the only PA Senate candidate in attendance at the public meeting at Chester City Hall to hear the State-appointed Receiver for the City of Chester describe his intention to monetize the municipal water service in an attempt to help the City’s disastrous finances, which date back to the mid-1990’s.
In 2022, the State appointed receiver declared to the ‘Daily Times’: “Chester’s financial and operational problems are by far the worst that my team of professionals has ever encountered.” So while the problem began many years ago, the situation has only worsened of late.
After this evening’s meeting, it was clear that the future is still murky. Many were left with unanswered questions about whether CWA could still remain intact, or if a sale was unavoidable. We owe it to our communities and neighbors to get clarity on this as soon as possible.
Here is what I believe:
- The people of Chester and Delaware counties deserve clean, affordable water. Chester Water Authority (CWA) is a non-profit municipal authority with a track record of delivering just that.
- The City’s bankruptcy hurts its residents, who deserve better. But CWA customers and employees should not be penalized for the City of Chester’s financial woes.
If elected, here is where I would focus:
- If CWA is ‘monetized’ by City officials, how can we ensure its customers are protected from rate increases down the line, and its employees remain employed?
How can we ensure any money injected into the City of Chester actually benefits the people of Chester and sets the City on a healthy financial trajectory?
- I have 20 years of experience in business and finance – managing budgets in excess of $200 million – and can help the City and this district navigate complex situations.
I’m committed to showing up for the people of the 9th district and support access to clean, reliable and AFFORDABLE water services as well as healthy finances that raise the quality of life for all our residents.
