Home / Business and Economy / County Seizes Water System Amid Bill Outcry
County Seizes Water System Amid Bill Outcry
5 Jul
Summary
- County commissioners voted to use eminent domain for water system takeover.
- Customers reported unusually high water and sanitation bills, reaching $900.
- Negotiations for fair market value are underway, with a purchase offer expected soon.
Allegany County is employing eminent domain to take over the Pinto Water and Wastewater and Highland Estates Water system, recently acquired by Maryland American Water. This action follows numerous customer complaints regarding exceptionally high water and sanitation bills, with some individual charges reaching as much as $900.
County Administrator Jason Bennett confirmed that initial discussions regarding ground rules for the takeover have occurred with American Water officials. The county plans to present a purchase offer for the water system within approximately 45 days, after verifying information provided by the company. Attorney T. Lee Beeman noted the company's willingness to cooperate in sharing pricing information to avoid litigation.
While the eminent domain process is anticipated to be lengthy and potentially costly, the county is proceeding with the acquisition. Customers have expressed concerns that rates may increase further under American Water, citing the company's recent approvals for rate hikes in multiple states. Data indicates that investor-owned utilities often charge significantly more for water and sewer services compared to local government utilities.
