For a little company, there is no shortage of intrigue swirling around the Chester Water Authority.
Water over the dam? Hardly.
First, the company that services more than 42,000 customers in Delaware and Chester counties had to fend off an unwanted $320 million bid to buy the company from utility giant Aqua Pa.
Once it got past that hurdle it had to deal with the city it calls home. Chester was trying desperately to climb out of Act 47 "distressed" status. The consultants hired by the state to guide the city's finances had an idea where they could get a ton of money to help - by selling off Chester Water Authority.
Eventually, CWA and the city cut a deal. The water authority would kick in $60 million to the city coffers, while Chester would relinquish any right to sell all or part of the company for 40 years. To get the money Chester Water would hike rates 10 percent.
That did not sit well with one very interested company. That would be Aqua. They went to court to block the deal.
Chester City Council never did actually sign off on the deal, and, apparently tired of waiting, again decided to seek bidders to buy the water company.
And yes, that was Aqua standing at the door.
Last week a new wrinkle developed. Delaware County's wastewater treatment agency, DELCORA, announced they would enter into merger talks with Aqua.
So much for the calm waters of the Chester Water Authority.
Don't look for them to return to their tranquil state anytime soon.
It's on today's editorial page.
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