In Historic Win, Edison Votes to Take Control of Water and Sewer Systems

For Immediate Release

In a special election spurred by a citizen-led petition campaign, Edison 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 initiative passed with the support of over 80% of voters. 

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.”

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