KIRKWOOD, PA — While privatization looms like a dark cloud over vital services, there are shining examples of communities standing up and saying, “Not on our watch!” One such community is the ratepayers, board, and employees of the Chester Water Authority (CWA). On Saturday, June 8, they are preparing to celebrate their seven year victory (and counting) with their 4th Annual Public Water Independence Day 2024.
On this significant occasion, the public is invited to join in the festivities at the Octoraro Reservoir for a Free Family Fun Day on the Lake. It’s a day to rejoice in the resilience of a community that refused to let corporate interests dictate the fate of their most precious, natural resource—water.
This story began seven years ago on May 18, 2017 when the board of the CWA made a historic decision. In the face of mounting pressure by Aqua, Big Water profiteer, the CWA board stood firm and unanimously rejected Aqua’s unsolicited offer to take over the public authority. What has followed these last seven years has been a relentless battle against a hostile takeover. Thankfully for the ratepayers and the public, the CWA board has remained steadfast in their commitment to serving the community’s best interests and keeping the award-winning water authority in public hands.
Their perseverance has paid off in more ways than one. By maintaining control of their water system, the CWA has saved its customers hundreds of millions of dollars compared to Aqua’s prices. They’ve also preserved the integrity and accessibility of the water resource that belongs to the people, leaving the Octoraro Reservoir, an area gem, open to the public for community enjoyment in nature.
So, what better way to celebrate this triumph than with a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds us?
Here’s what you can expect at Public Water Independence Day:
- Free Busing: Don’t worry about transportation – we’ve got you covered with free busing from Chester City and DelCo. Everyone is welcome!
- Free Food: Indulge in a delicious array of treats, including soft pretzels, pretzel dogs, tacos from a local food truck, Taqueria Los Juarez, and everyone’s favorite – Mr. Softee’s ice cream!
- Free Activities: Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, there’s something for everyone. New this year, enjoy free pontoon boat tours, kayak lessons, and guided paddles on the tranquil waters of the Octoraro Reservoir.
- Free Entertainment: Little ones can try their luck at the kiddie fishing pond, with prizes waiting to be won. Meanwhile, adults can embark on a free tour of the dam and treatment plant to learn more about the intricate process of delivering clean, safe water to our homes.
- Free Swag & Giveaways: Take home some CWA swag as a memento of this special day!
- Speakers and Education: Engage with community leaders and environmental experts as they share insights into the importance of public water systems and the ongoing fight to protect them. Visit the Education and Environmental Awareness Fair to learn more about local watersheds and how you can help preserve them for future generations.
Let’s come together to celebrate not just a day, but a movement—one that reaffirms our commitment to safeguarding our public water and ensuring that it remains a source of pride and prosperity for our community, now and always. See you there! Learn more at savecwa.org/pwid.
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