Start Date
6-12-2021 3:45 PM
End Date
6-12-2021 5:00 PM
Access Type
Open Access
Abstract
Nationally, the cost of drinking water and sewer utility services has been increasing faster than the consumer price index (inflation) since 1980, propelled by more stringent environmental standards, service area expansion, and repairs for aging infrastructure. These pressures are not abating, and in many ways are increasing. The result is that utilities need more revenue, but an increasing number of households face utility costs that are unaffordable. Shutting off these customers is counterproductive for those low-income households (somewhat like a debtors prison, where you suffer for an inability to pay), society at large, and even the utilities (which face public opposition and administrative costs). A new report sponsored by Jersey Water Works, a statewide consortium focused on water infrastructure issues, and financed through New Jersey Future, a statewide “smart growth” organization, shows the geographic pattern and severity of the issue.
Biography
Daniel Van Abs, Professor of Professional Practice at Rutgers University, has 40 years of experience in water resources and environmental management with Rutgers, the Highlands Council, NJ Water Supply Authority, NJ Department of Environmental Protection and Passaic River Coalition. He is a NJ licensed Professional Planner. His PhD is from SUNY-College of Environmental Science and Forestry. See www.danvanabs.com for more details.
Additional Links
ORCID
Water Utility Services: Understanding the Tension Between Viability and Affordability
Nationally, the cost of drinking water and sewer utility services has been increasing faster than the consumer price index (inflation) since 1980, propelled by more stringent environmental standards, service area expansion, and repairs for aging infrastructure. These pressures are not abating, and in many ways are increasing. The result is that utilities need more revenue, but an increasing number of households face utility costs that are unaffordable. Shutting off these customers is counterproductive for those low-income households (somewhat like a debtors prison, where you suffer for an inability to pay), society at large, and even the utilities (which face public opposition and administrative costs). A new report sponsored by Jersey Water Works, a statewide consortium focused on water infrastructure issues, and financed through New Jersey Future, a statewide “smart growth” organization, shows the geographic pattern and severity of the issue.