PUC Approves Sale Of Troubled East Dunkard Water System In Greene County To PA American Water Company

On March 13, the Public Utility Commission approved a settlement that will allow for the sale of the East Dunkard Water Authority system to Pennsylvania-American Water Company, marking the final step in a long-running effort to ensure safe, reliable water service for residents and businesses in Greene County.

The Commission voted 5-0 today to grant the necessary approvals for PAWC to formally acquire and operate the East Dunkard water system, which serves approximately 1,800 customers – representing a population of about 4,200 – across Dunkard Township, Greene Township, and portions of Monongahela, Cumberland, Perry, and Whiteley Townships.  

The settlement requires, among other things, that PAWC adopt East Dunkard’s existing rates at closing and also provide outreach regarding customer assistance programs.

Collaborative Solution for the Community

The decision follows previous emergency action taken by the PUC to address water service disruptions and operational deficiencies that left customers without access to clean, safe drinking water. 

At that time, the Commission authorized PAWC to temporarily manage the troubled system as a court-appointed receiver, in response to a joint petition from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and PAWC.

“I am pleased that the parties have brought a final resolution to this case so that the residents and businesses served by this water system can depend on safe and reliable service for years to come,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “This outcome reflects the positive impact of collaboration between DEP, PAWC, East Dunkard and the public advocates to find long-term solutions that benefit consumers.”

Next Steps for the Transition

With today’s approval, PAWC will proceed with closing the transaction and formally integrating East Dunkard customers into its water system. 

Key next steps include:

-- Transaction Completion – PAWC will finalize the sale and notify the Commission of the closing.

-- Service Continuity – PAWC will continue to operate the system in compliance with all state and federal regulations, ensuring a seamless transition for customers.

-- Tariff and Rate Adjustments – PAWC will implement its existing water service tariff for East Dunkard customers, as previously outlined in the acquisition agreement.

Commitment to Long-Term Improvements

PAWC’s acquisition of the system is expected to bring critical operational and infrastructure improvements to enhance water quality, reliability, and efficiency. 

As part of its commitment, PAWC will continue evaluating and investing in necessary upgrades to support the long-term sustainability of the system.

Click Here for the PUC announcement.   Docket No.: A-2024-3049759

Visit the Public Utility Commission website for more information on its responsibilities and actions.

NewsClip:

-- Observer-Reporter: PUC Approves Troubled East Dunkard Authority Sale To PA American Water   [PDF of Article]  

Related Articles:

-- PUC Issues Emergency Order To Veolia Water To Take Over Wonderview Sanitary Water Facilities In Columbia County After Owner Abandoned The System  [PaEN]

-- PUC Acts To Appoint PA American Water Company To Operate Rock Spring Water Company, Negotiate Long-Term Solution With State College Water Authority  [PaEN]

-- PUC Approves Sale Of Troubled East Dunkard Water System In Greene County To PA American Water Company  [PaEN] 
[Posted: March 15, 2025]  PA Environment Digest