Keeping Pittsburgh’s Water Public: Why It Matters for All of Us

Article by Chavaysha Chaney
March 20, 2025

What Happened:
Pittsburgh United and Upstream Pgh’s Environmental Justice Leads, JoAnne Tippett, Advocacy Coordinator, and Chief Pomaj, Advocacy Consultant worked hard to push for legislation that protects Pittsburgh’s water from privatization. Thanks to those efforts, Pittsburgh City Council approved the legislation—a huge win! 

What’s Next:
Now, the next step is up to the voters. This issue will be on the May primary ballot, and we need a certain number of YES votes to officially keep Pittsburgh’s water public.

Why This Matters Beyond Pittsburgh:
While this legislation focuses on keeping Pittsburgh’s water public, the outcome has big implications for other water systems across Allegheny County. When larger water systems like Pittsburgh’s remain public, it sets a powerful precedent that can protect smaller, neighboring systems from falling into private hands.

Publicly Owned Water: When the water system is owned by the public, its main purpose is to serve the community—making sure water is clean, affordable, and accessible.
Privately Owned Water: When private companies take over, their goal is to make a profit. This often leads to:

• Higher water bills 
• Less accountability to the public 
• Fewer protections for the community
  

Protecting All of Our Water Systems:
If Pittsburgh’s water remains public, it helps safeguard the integrity of water systems across Allegheny County. Privatization of one major system can create a domino effect, putting other public systems at risk. By voting YES in May, we’re protecting not just Pittsburgh’s water, but ensuring that all communities in our region maintain control over this essential resource.

Mark your calendar for May 20 and make your voice heard!
Public water means transparency, accountability, and protection for all.