Federal Delegation Urges Takeover of Water System

The contents of a letter sent Wednesday afternoon to the Allegany County Commissioners from the Maryland federal delegation indicates their urging for the county take over the Bel Air water system.  At tonight’s commission meeting, it is anticipated the commissioners will adopt a resolution to start eminent domain proceedings against Maryland Water Service. The company currently owns water systems in the Bel Air, Pinto, and Highland Estates areas of Allegany County. The letter, signed by Senators Chris Van Hollen, Angela Alsobrooks, and Congresswoman April McClain-Delaney, urges the commissioners to move forward with their plans.  Delegation offices have received over 200 letters of testimony about the impact of increasing water rates on residents in the areas served by Maryland Water Service.  The letter indicates the full support of the delegation for the Resolution of Condemnation.