Residents and council demand answers after two downtown water-main breaks

Several residents and council members pressed city leaders and Pennsylvania American Water to explain and address two downtown water-main breaks that occurred within 10 days.

“Bring Pennsylvania American Water in here and have a real come-to-Jesus meeting and start asking some hard questions,” said Joan Hodowonitz, a downtown resident who noted one break involved a 141-year-old main and urged proactive replacement rather than reactive repairs. Lee Morgan told the council he believes the city should press the Public Utility Commission and called the situation a public-health emergency for some residents who cannot afford water and sewer bills.

Council members thanked community volunteers and first responders for immediate assistance and described economic damage to downtown businesses; several said they would schedule Pennsylvania American Water for a caucus meeting and request the company’s infrastructure and replacement plans. “If they have done it, prove it to us,” Councilmember Sean McAndrew said, asking the company to show where rate increases were invested.

The chair said Pennsylvania American Water has been brought before the council previously for explainers about the pave-cut and restoration process and that the city will secure and distribute the company’s written plan to council members. The city also announced it will post an intake form for residents and businesses to report losses and that the utility’s claims process can be reached through its My Water portal or by phone. The council discussed creating a modest relief fund to help small businesses and residents affected by such incidents.