In a stunning announcement, the embattled water utility NY American Water has announced plans to exit its NY State operations in 2020.

This press release will have significant implications to the community’s plans to implement a municipal water district.

In a letter to their customers, President Lynda DiMenna wrote,

” Dear Valued Customer:
I am communicating with you today because, as you may have read, American Water announced that it has entered into an agreement to sell its regulated New York operations to Liberty Utilities, the regulated utility business of parent company Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp.

This was a very difficult decision for American Water, as we have had the privilege of serving customers and communities in New York for more than 130 years. After a careful and comprehensive analysis, we believe it is in the best interest of our customers in New York to sell to Liberty, which already has utility operations and will have a larger presence in New York once the agreement closes. 
We are committed to working together to ensure that the transition is unnoticeable to you and that safe and reliable water service continues throughout the transition and beyond. We estimate that closing will take place late into 2020, following regulatory approval by the New York Public Service Commission.
With over 800,000 customer connections in 14 states, Liberty Utilities is known for its commitment to customer service, the community, and conservation. Liberty Utilities upholds the highest standards of service to meet the day-to-day needs of its customers and offers employee programs that recognize superior customer support and contribution to the community.
Customers should also not expect any impact on water rates as a result of the acquisition. In fact, Liberty has committed to working with us, regulators, and other state officials to ensure the affordability of water services, including championing to reduce the burden of local taxes on New York American Water’s customers, which can account for more than half of your monthly bills. Liberty is also committed to continuing to invest in the water system to improve water quality, customer education on conservation and community outreach.
The employees of American Water have had the privilege of providing water services to your community for many years, and our primary focus remains the delivery of quality service to our customers. These same employees will be the ones to continue to deliver this service to you, both during the transition and beyond with Liberty Utilities’ ownership.
We will work hard to keep you updated throughout this process. In the meantime, we look forward to continuing to serve you.”