Chester Water Authority honors commissioners as 'Public Water Warriors,' warns of ongoing privatization threats

Representatives of the Chester Water Authority presented the Chester County commissioners with a “Public Water Warrior” award at the March 25 meeting, thanking the board for legal support and public advocacy during recent litigation and bankruptcy‑related disputes.

Lenny Rivera, speaking for the Chester Water Authority, said the authority’s board and its more than 45,000 ratepayers were grateful for the commissioners’ help during arguments before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and federal matters tied to the authority’s bankruptcy‑era disputes. Rivera said the county’s lawyers appeared alongside CWA in court proceedings and that the commissioners’ public statements and letters reinforced defense of public ownership.

Rivera warned that efforts to “monetize or privatize” the authority continue and asked the commissioners to remain engaged on ratepayer protection. Noelle (Noel) Brandon, joining by video, echoed thanks and said the commissioners’ involvement had been consistent and decisive when it mattered.

Commissioners accepted the award and thanked the authority. The remarks highlighted litigation and public‑policy stakes for a utility that, as presented, serves roughly 200,000 people in the authority’s service area; Rivera urged continued cooperation between county government and the authority to protect affordable, high‑quality public water.

The board did not take formal action related to the presentation; the item functioned as an award and public recognition.