Louisville Water Company
Definition
A publicly-owned utility that provides drinking water to approximately 860,000 people in Louisville Metro and surrounding counties, drawing water from the Ohio River and treating it at two facilities. Unlike MSD (sewers), Louisville Water is governed by appointed commissioners and funded through water rates. The utility is nationally recognized for water quality, operating one of the oldest continuously operating water companies in the US (founded 1860).
Louisville Context
Louisville Water owns the B.E. Payne Water Treatment Plant (world’s largest capacity treatment plant when built in 1909) and the newer Crescent Hill facility. The utility supplies water not just to Louisville Metro, but also to parts of Bullitt, Shelby, Spencer, and Oldham counties. Average Louisville household pays $35-45/month for water service.
Why It Matters
Your water bill is separate from your sewer bill and property taxes. Understanding that Louisville Water is publicly owned (unlike private water companies in some cities) means local control over rates and service quality. The utility’s financial health affects your water rates and Louisville’s economic development competitiveness.
Dave’s Proposal
Dave supports continued public ownership of Louisville Water and will advocate for the utility to expand its lead service line replacement program, prioritizing low-income neighborhoods and homes with children. He’ll work to ensure water remains affordable through expanded assistance programs.