What other concerns have been raised regarding the privatization of water utilities?
A. In many U.S. communities where water has been privatized, there has been an increased risk of rate hikes, inadequate customer service, and reduced local control. In Pekin, Illinois, rates increased 204 percent over the 18 years Illinois-American ran the water system. Atlanta, Georgia, recently canceled water management contracts with United Water Resources Inc. because of their poor customer service. Lack of proper monitoring progress by a public agency can lead to ineffective service provision, discriminatory behavior, violations of water quality protections, and lack of access to information.
