CITIZEN PETITION FOR EMERGENCY WATER RATEPAYER RELIEF

To the Bridgewater Town Council, Town Manager, Water Department, Water & Sewer Board, and Board of Health:

We, the undersigned residents and ratepayers of Bridgewater, Massachusetts, respectfully petition the Town to provide immediate relief to residents affected by the ongoing Water Supply Emergency and documented water quality concerns.

WHEREAS:

• Residents have continued to pay full water rates while operating under water restrictions and emergency conditions;

• Residents have incurred additional expenses for bottled water, water filtration systems, replacement filters, and alternative water sources;

• Residents have experienced significant disruption to the normal use and enjoyment of municipal water service;

• Public confidence in the municipal water system has been negatively impacted by ongoing water quality concerns and emergency declarations;

THEREFORE, WE REQUEST THAT THE TOWN OF BRIDGEWATER:

Establish a temporary ratepayer relief program for affected residents.
Create a process for residents to apply for water bill abatements, credits, or adjustments related to emergency water conditions.
Freeze future water rate increases until emergency conditions have been resolved.
Pursue all available state and federal grants, emergency funding, and reimbursement opportunities.
Publish monthly updates regarding:

Water quality testing
Infrastructure improvements
PFAS mitigation efforts
Emergency response actions
Project completion timelines
Hold a public hearing dedicated to water quality, public health concerns, and resident financial impacts.
Provide a written response to residents outlining what relief measures the Town is willing to consider.
We believe residents should not be required to absorb the full financial burden of an ongoing public water system emergency while also paying additional out-of-pocket costs to obtain water they consider safe for consumption and daily use.

Respectfully submitted,

Residents of Bridgewater Ma