West Virginia American Water to acquire Jefferson Utilities for $30m

American Water’s subsidiary West Virginia American Water has agreed to acquire the water and wastewater system assets of Jefferson Utilities, Valley Water and Sewer Services, East Jefferson Sewer Services, and Shenandoah Junction Public Sewer (together called Jefferson Utilities) for $30 million.

The combined water and wastewater systems cater to 3,978 customer connections in Jefferson, Morgan, and Berkeley counties.

Robert Burton — West Virginia American Water President said: “West Virginia American Water looks forward to becoming the water and wastewater service provider for such a vibrant and growing part of the Eastern Panhandle.

“We are committed to continuing the high level of service provided by these water and wastewater utilities while being an excellent community partner and delivering on our infrastructure investment, technical expertise and decades of water and wastewater experience.

“Additionally, we look forward to taking an active role in the growth of the Eastern Panhandle and helping the communities we’ll serve as they continue to thrive.”

The parties will file the agreement with the Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC) to seek its review and approval. Following these, the assets and customer base of Jefferson Utilities will be transferred to West Virginia American Water.

Lee Snyder — Jefferson Utilities owner said: “All of our employees and I have worked diligently and tirelessly over the past 25 years to establish the Jefferson Utilities’ water system. We have accomplished a great deal and served our customers well.

“As I approach retirement, my succession goal is to see our work continued by a very capable utility company, West Virginia American Water. With this agreement, the future of the Eastern Panhandle is bright.

“This sale presents an incredible opportunity for our area and our customers. I look forward to all that West Virginia American Water will do for and within our communities.”

The parties expect to wrap up the deal by the end of this year.