Statement on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Decision

While we are disappointed with the Supreme Court’s decision, we continue to believe that the 2012 Act 73 amendment that stripped control of the Chester Water Authority (CWA) from the City is unconstitutional special legislation. That issue was not before the Supreme Court in this case.

What was at stake in this case was the narrow issue of whether the City could unilaterally take back CWA’s assets or whether CWA’s board could block such a move. In fact, the Court ruled that neither party had those powers, but rather that the Chester City Council, Delaware County Council, and the Chester County Commissioners were the entities vested with such authority.

The City remains on a path to greater financial stability and improved operations. However, we recognize that this ruling makes it more difficult for the City to exit bankruptcy. That said, we will continue to relentlessly work on behalf of all involved to reach a successful outcome.