We are deeply concerned about the costs of our sewer system and the burden that’s been placed on our residents. While the PMUA is a separate entity from the township committee, we do strive to maintain a productive working relationship that benefits our residents.

In 2022, the Plumsted Township Committee recognized the need to enhance the level of PMUA expertise in the area of wastewater treatment system operations. Since then, the township committee has appointed a completely new PMUA board. A shared-service executive management agreement has significantly enhanced our expertise and brought cost reductions. Together, the Board and staff have decades of combined professional experience. The daily operations of our state-of-the-art processing plant are handled by the same company used by American Water for its local systems, one of only a handful in New Jersey. Current user fees paid to the PMUA cover operating costs without a profit margin.

The PMUA has negotiated new facility management contracts, and additional funding sources are being identified for short-term rate relief for residents using the system. Opportunities for system growth are being identified from existing homes and businesses, and smart development for long-term user rate reduction. Additionally, a strategic planning grant has been obtained to allow the PMUA to create a comprehensive plan in 2026 to grow system sustainability.

We support these initiatives. We respectfully disagree with the recommendation to dissolve the PMUA. Turning management responsibilities over to the Plumsted Township Committee, or a task force thereof, is a short-sighted measure sure to bring further distress and costs to the community. No one currently serving on the township committee or running for township committee possesses professional wastewater treatment system expertise to effectively replace existing PMUA leadership. We do not support costly initiatives to hire a third-party management company or consultancy that would further impact residents’ monthly utility bills and/or tax burden.