Fazio Holds Press Conference In New Canaan On Rising Water Rates

Information via State Senator Ryan Fazio

NEW CANAAN, CT — State Senator Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) held a press conference with legislative and municipal leaders this week at New Canaan Town Hall to express concerns about Eversource's agreement to sell Aquarion Water Company to the Regional Water Authority (RWA).

According to a news release provided by Fazio's office, the concern is raised "over the lack of regulatory oversight this sale will bring, potentially allowing water rates to increase for Connecticut residents by as much as 50 percent."

"This transaction stinks and can have a harmful effect on my constituents and all Aquarion customers," Fazio said in a news release. "Now, Aquarion will not be regulated by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, or PURA, which means rate increases for customers in Western CT will go unchecked without regulatory approval. Additionally, Aquarion will now be part of a quasi-governmental utility, therefore will not be required to pay full property taxes on their resident towns and cities. With this comes a strong possibility that taxes will increase on the rest of us to make up for the monetary loss."

According to Fazio's office, the RWA's bid on Aquarion was rushed during an emergency legislative session last summer, and the topic did not receive public debates or hearings before it was accepted.

"Connecticut residents deserve a lower cost of living, affordable utilities, and a trustworthy government," Fazio said. "Unfortunately, the Aquarion sale to Regional Water Authority, which their elected officials imposed upon them will deliver higher utility bills and diminished trust."

Fazio represents the state's 36th District, which includes parts of Greenwich, New Canaan and Stamford.