July 29th, 2023 by WCBC Radio

The Piedmont Municipal Water Department is not a failing or distressed utility, but it must make a number of changes to bring itself into full compliance, the Public Service Commission of West Virginia decided Friday.

However, the Commission warned, “there is a real concern that Piedmont may soon become a distressed or failing utility” if it does not address issues noted in the PSC order. The Commission told the town to file regular updated reports on its progress.

“Based on the testimony and evidence provided, Piedmont does not currently meet the threshold of a distressed utility,” the PSC ruled. It is not in violation of water quality regulations. It has not failed to comply within a reasonable time to water quality orders issued by any state agency.

Sufficient evidence was not presented to show Piedmont “is no longer able to provide adequate, efficient, safe and reasonable utility services,” the Commission said.

PSC staff had filed a petition on Jan. 12 asking for an investigation of the utility.

“We remain concerned and watchful about this situation,” PSC Chairman Charlotte Lane said.

More information, including the full procedural schedule and documents filed in this case, can be found on the Commission website: www.psc.state.wv.us by referencing Case No. 23-0027-W-DU.