Supporting the Manville Sewer Sale Means Investing in the Future

This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.

This November, residents will have the chance to make a significant impact on the future of Manville by voting “yes” on the sale of the sewer system to the Borough’s water provider, New Jersey American Water. The historic opportunity includes an investment of $16.5 million directly into the community. This investment includes a payment of $6.5 million for the system itself, plus a commitment to spend an additional $10 million in sewer improvements and upgrades within Manville in the first decade of ownership. This decision, beyond its immediate financial implications, marks a potential turning point for addressing old infrastructure that has existed since before color television.

The age of Manville’s current sewer infrastructure cannot be ignored. Parts of the sewer system have served the Borough for over 80 years and are nearing the end of their effective lifespan. Without the immediate investments from the sewer sale, the Borough might be forced to defer essential maintenance due to budget constraints. This can make existing problems worse and lead to larger, more complex issues down the line. New Jersey American Water's acquisition of the system would mean the immediate onset of much-needed capital improvements, including replacing and fixing sewer assets and strengthening the system against flooding and infiltration of rainwater.

At New Jersey American Water, we possess extensive, specialized experience in managing complex sewer systems like Manville’s. Our scale and exclusive focus on water and sewer services allows us to manage the system more cost-efficiently. Moreover, we have a level of proficiency and know-how that's honed by years of singular focus and dedication to water and wastewater infrastructure. Perhaps just as important, we also know Manville. New Jersey American Water has been Manville’s water company for several decades. Since 2013, our company has invested over $25 million into the water distribution system in the Borough, replacing aging water mains, company side service lines, and public fire hydrants.

This sewer sale is not just a financial transaction, it’s about stability, reliability, and a vision for the future.

Manville’s neighbors in Somerville and Bound Brook have already realized the benefits of selling. Both towns voted to approve selling their sewer systems to New Jersey American Water, securing funds and infrastructure investments far exceeding the sale prices. Both towns achieved a way to address their aging sewer infrastructures without sinking into debt or saddling their residents with large rate increases through the sale.

The choice seems clear. Vote Yes on the sewer sale to stabilize rates and property taxes and prioritize needed investment into the sewer system. A yes vote is a vote for Manville’s future.

New Jersey American Water: Committed to excellence, dedicated to Manville.

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