In Historic Win, Edison Votes to Take Control of Water and Sewer Systems
In a special election spurred by a citizen-led petition campaign, Edison, New Jersey voters turned out in force to vote yes on a measure to bring the township’s sewer system and part of its drinking water system under public control.
The campaign was launched in response to news of a possible 40-year, $800 million deal to lease those systems to corporate water giant Suez and the Wall Street equity firm KKR.
Food & Water Watch organizer Junior Romero released the following statement:
“This community deserved a voice in their future — and they demanded it. Suez and their Wall Street backers spent huge sums of money trying to scare residents. But money can’t beat people power; Folks knocked on doors, called their neighbors, and came out to rally in support of this campaign to take control over Edison’s essential resources. This is a phenomenal win, especially in a state where water profiteers are accustomed to getting their way. Let’s hope communities emulate this win in Edison by starting campaigns to bring their water systems under local, public control.”
Wins like this happen because of a strong strategy on the ground like Junior's, the dedication and hard work of community members, and because of supporters like you.
Will you chip in to help the next city that defends its water from corporate takeover?
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