Henrico County leaders push for regional cooperation on water treatment solutions

In a recent joint meeting between the Hanover County and Henrico County Boards of Supervisors, the critical issue of water distribution took center stage, highlighting the urgent need for reliable water access for residents. The discussions were particularly poignant for those affected by past water shortages, with officials emphasizing the trauma experienced during a five-day water outage earlier this year.

One supervisor expressed deep concern for residents in Verona and Mechanicsville, noting that when the water treatment plant faces challenges, it impacts everyone relying on its services. The supervisor called for a collaborative approach with the City of Richmond, which oversees the water treatment plant, advocating for a more integrated role in decision-making. They suggested forming an authority rather than a commission, which would allow for more direct involvement in managing water resources.

The meeting underscored the importance of ensuring that all residents, especially those in Henrico County, have access to clean and reliable water. The supervisor reassured the community that efforts would be made to modernize the treatment plant and expand water lines to prevent future shortages. They emphasized that the focus should remain on the residents' needs rather than external business interests, such as data centers, which could complicate water resource management.

In addition to addressing immediate concerns, the meeting fostered a spirit of cooperation among local governments, with a commitment to work together to enhance water infrastructure. The discussions reflect a broader goal of ensuring that all communities within the region have consistent access to essential water services, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in addressing public needs.