Local residents learned more about the potential sale of the Butler Area Sewer Authority at two Butler City meetings Tuesday.
Representatives from PA American Water were joined by Butler City officials and about 25 residents at St. Peter’s Parish Hall for a discussion concerning the possible impacts of a recent $231.5 million offer.
“What we want this meeting to be is you getting answers to questions and us hearing what you have to say,” Butler City Mayor Bob Dandoy said. “We think the best way to do that is to sit down and talk to each other.”
Officials emphasized that the debate of public versus private ownership is not the same in every situation. Officials also noted that the PA Public Utility Commission will closely examine Pennsylvania American Water’s track record of responsible management in transactions like this.
“I’ve been in business in 54 years and Natili North has been there for 49 years so I’m going to survive the best I can. I’m going to adapt to whatever happens. Whether they keep it or the PA American Water buys it,” longtime Butler resident and business owner Vince Tavolario said. “But I do know the sewer system needs updated tremendously because I’ve seen it in our back alley.”
Two more meetings will be held Thursday at the Butler Township Municipal Building, also at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
