Press Article: Ongoing Struggles at Rock Spring Water Company Stall Solutions for Customers
FERGUSON TOWNSHIP — The long-standing efforts to remove control of the problematic Rock Spring Water Company from its familial owner have encountered yet another setback, prolonging the resolution for its nearly 1,000 customers who have suffered from unreliable service for over a decade.
State College Borough Water Authority recently submitted a $65,000 offer to acquire Rock Spring, a private water system in Centre County, but the offer was rejected. Currently, the system is managed by Pennsylvania American Water Company, brought in after state regulators deemed an emergency takeover necessary due to "imminent health threats."
In March, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) mandated Rock Spring’s owner to negotiate with the borough’s water authority. However, the failure to meet a crucial deadline for filing a service abandonment request has returned the case to state regulators, who may ultimately enforce a takeover.
Rock Spring’s deteriorating infrastructure has led to significant service issues, including low water pressure and frequent boil water advisories. A 2022 engineering assessment estimated that the system requires at least $13.5 million in repairs. An investigation revealed alarming water loss rates of 63% annually, far exceeding acceptable industry standards, leading to numerous regulatory violations against owner J. Roy Campbell.
Community members, including customer Andrew McKinnon, have expressed support for municipal control over the water service, believing it would provide better management than the current investor-owned model. Despite the initial willingness to sell, some shareholders have voiced concerns about undervaluation and potential negotiations with other buyers.
As the legal process unfolds, the State College water authority remains committed to acquiring Rock Spring, highlighting the necessity of resolving ongoing issues for the benefit of affected residents. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania American continues to manage the troubled utility as discussions with state regulators progress.
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