Gloucester Township, N.J. (August 27, 2024) – Gloucester Township’s Council outlined today their meaningful commitments to residents regarding the sewer sale referendum, which will be decided by a vote this November.

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If the referendum passes, New Jersey American Water will take ownership of the system. The sale will result in a $233 million investment in Gloucester Township that includes a $143 million payment to purchase the sewer system and a $90 million sewer infrastructure investment in the first 10 years of ownership to upgrade and maintain the system, coupled with rate stabilization. 

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“Our commitments outlined will use the proceeds of the sewer sale effectively and responsibly to benefit all residents. By addressing township debt, freezing property taxes, and ensuring job security for our sewer employees, we’re focused on doing what’s right for our community. We’re also committed to providing residents with the information they need to make an informed vote,” said Council President Orlando Mercado. “Property tax reduction and rate stabilization will benefit your household budget. And the proposed funding for recreation, senior activities, and first responders is about enhancing the quality of life for everyone in Gloucester Township. We encourage all residents to learn the facts and vote in this important referendum.”

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The township recently outlined a commitment that memorializes benefits to residents and how the $143 million purchase price would be reinvested into the community, if the referendum passes. 

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• Eliminate all township debt estimated at $64 million, reducing approximately $8 million annually in the budget that is currently used for debt service payments

• Use $35 million to decrease and freeze local property taxes over the next five years

• Guaranteed continued employment for all sewer employees with the Township in the Public Works Department with the same pay, benefits and union status currently in place, or the choice to pursue employment with New Jersey American Water, if desired

• Free sewer lateral cleanouts for all Gloucester Township residents 24/7, 365 days a year

• Recreation enhancement program setting aside $10 – 15 million to fund recreational projects for all age groups through an application process

• Expand senior citizens and arts/cultural activities throughout Gloucester Township

• Police and first responders funding to be made available for support apparatus and other assistance

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If voters reject the sale, the Township will be forced to borrow more money, increase rates significantly, or both, to maintain the sewer system on its own. The latter could lead to higher property taxes, raising the cost of living for all Gloucester Township residents, both homeowners and renters alike.

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As the referendum date approaches, New Jersey American Water will work closely with the Township Council and the residents of Gloucester Township to ensure that this potential partnership is one that benefits the entire community, both now and in the years to come.

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For more information, please visit VoteYesGloucesterTownship.com or GloTwp.com.

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About New Jersey American Water

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New Jersey American Water is a local Camden County company and has been serving parts of Gloucester Township for several decades, with about 200 employees serving and more than two dozen employees living in Gloucester Township.

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Media Contact​

Denise Venuti Free​

Senior Director of Communications & External Affairs​

denise.free@amwater.com​

New Jersey American Water