Louisville Water Company
Definition
A publicly-owned utility that provides drinking water to nearly one million people in Louisville Metro and surrounding counties (Louisville Water 2024 Annual Report), 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 began operations in 1860 as Kentucky’s first public water provider (Louisville Water 2024 Annual Report).
Louisville Context
Louisville Water owns the Crescent Hill Water Treatment Plant (opened in 1909; Kentucky’s oldest and largest drinking water plant) and the B.E. Payne Water Treatment Plant (Louisville Water 2024 Annual Report). The utility supplies water not just to Louisville Metro, but also to parts of Bullitt, Shelby, Spencer, and Oldham counties. The average residential bill for 4,000 gallons of water was $28.17 in 2024 (Louisville Water 2024 Annual Report).
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.
My Proposal
I support 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. I’ll work to ensure water remains affordable through expanded assistance programs.