SCWA hosts the elected official forum to address drinking water issues

The Suffolk County Water Authority hosted a forum for elected officials Jan. 26 at its Education Center in Hauppauge. Over 40 elected officials or their representatives engaged in critical discussions with SCWA on drinking water issues. The forum served as a platform to address issues such as emerging pollutants, aging infrastructure, advanced treatment systems, service mains and efforts to connect homes to the public water system.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, who highlighted his longtime partnership with SCWA to extend public water to communities in need, gave the keynote address. Romaine shared insight into his extensive history of working with SCWA, particularly in expanding high quality drinking water to areas such as Mastic and Manorville. Romaine confirmed his partnership with SCWA to continue its mission of providing safe and reliable drinking water to residents throughout Suffolk County.

County Executive Ed Romaine said, “I am a proud friend of SCWA and its mission to bring high-quality drinking water to the people of Suffolk County. I have seen firsthand across the county the difference SCWA makes in the lives of its clients. I know that by working together we can continue to ensure that every Suffolk resident has access to this vital resource.”

SCWA President Charlie Lefkowitz expressed his gratitude for the strong participation of elected officials at the forum, emphasizing the importance of working together to address the challenges facing the water authority. Lefkowitz stated, “I am proud to say that the Suffolk County Water Authority is one of the best providers of drinking water in the country. We could not have achieved this without the continued cooperation of our elected officials.”

CEO Jeff Szabo echoed those sentiments, thanking attendees for their participation and dedication to working alongside SCWA. Szabo said, “This forum is a testament to our commitment to working with our stakeholders and being responsive to the public. Working with our elected officials ensures that Suffolk County residents continue to have high-quality drinking water.”

About SCWA:
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, the Authority operates without taxing authority on a not-for-profit basis.