HARRISBURG, PA — Representative John Lawrence has voiced strong opposition to a recent plan filed in federal bankruptcy court by Michael Doweary, the state-appointed receiver for the City of Chester. The plan proposes the dissolution of the Chester Water Authority‘s (CWA) board of directors, a move Lawrence deems unacceptable.
Lawrence criticized the receiver’s claim that Chester already owns the CWA, pointing out inconsistencies in the receiver’s court filings. He highlighted the demand for water assets to “revert” to the city as evidence that the water authority is not currently owned by Chester. Lawrence emphasized, “It’s outrageous to suggest that the city owns the water system while simultaneously asking a judge to order its reversion.”
The proposed dissolution of the CWA board, established by state law over a decade ago, raises significant legal concerns. Lawrence argues that the receiver’s actions disregard existing legislation and reflect poorly on the governor’s administration. He expressed alarm over the potential financial impact on ratepayers, who might face increased bills to cover the city’s financial mismanagement.
Lawrence urged Governor Josh Shapiro to remove any plans to sell or monetize the CWA, calling for a clear statement that the authority will remain independent. He stressed that the CWA and its ratepayers should not bear the burden of the city’s fiscal woes, safeguarding the community’s access to reliable and affordable water services.
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