Aquarion Water Company completes first full privatization of municipal sewer system in Connecticut

(UI) — Aquarion Water Company has announced that the company has closed on the purchase of the Town of New Hartford's municipal water and wastewater treatment systems. The purchase marks the first full privatization of a municipal wastewater system in Connecticut. The $8 million transaction will also result in an immediate reduction of both water and wastewater rates.

"We are excited to welcome New Hartford residents to the Aquarion family," said Aquarion President Donald Morrissey. "We are looking forward to providing our newest customers with the industry-leading service and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services that families and businesses across New England have counted on for more than 165 years."

Aquarion was selected to purchase the town's systems through a competitive RFP process held in December 2017 and approved by voters in a March 2021 town-wide referendum. 

"Our residents and businesses rely on safe, clean water and the efficient management of wastewater," said New Hartford's First Selectman Dan Jerram. "In Aquarion we have a partner with the expertise, financial resources, and in-depth understanding of our town's infrastructure to provide residents with the reliable, cost-effective service they deserve."

With the proceeds from the purchase, New Hartford will repay debt associated with the wastewater plant, fund the expansion of the wastewater system into the Pine Meadow section of town, and provide a long-term subsidy of wastewater rates.

"Expanding the sewer system will not only protect drinking water sources, but it will help to stabilize rates by serving a larger customer base," said Jerram. "Additionally, water customers will see their bills reduced by about 15% and sewer customers' bills will decrease by about 10%. It's a real win-win for the town and its residents." 

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