#United States #Water Services #Missouri American Water #Neosho

Missouri American Water Completes Acquisition of Neosho Water and Wastewater Systems

Missouri American Water has officially completed its acquisition of the City of Neosho's water and wastewater systems for a total of $34.5 million. This strategic move adds approximately 5,400 customers in both water and wastewater services, significantly expanding the company's reach in the region. Moreover, the acquisition includes the onboarding of 25 dedicated employees who have been serving the Neosho community prior to this transition.

The acquisition agreement was unanimously endorsed by the Neosho City Council on August 19, 2025, followed by approval from the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) on June 24, 2026. This milestone marks a pivotal moment for Missouri American Water, reflecting its commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable water services to its customers. Rich Svindland, President of Missouri American Water, expressed his enthusiasm about serving the City of Neosho, emphasizing the company’s promise of enhanced service delivery and modernization of the existing infrastructure.

Future Investment Plans

As part of the agreement and pending PSC approval, Missouri American Water has committed to investing approximately $35 million in the Neosho water and wastewater systems within the next five years. The proposed upgrades are extensive and include essential facility improvements, replacement of outdated water and wastewater mains, and the adoption of advanced technology aimed at enhancing leak detection and ensuring compliance with state and federal wastewater treatment standards.

The comprehensive plan also covers the identification and replacement of all lead and galvanized steel service lines, modernization of aging water mains, and the upgrade of crucial facilities such as the Buffalo Creek lift station. Missouri American Water plans to pinpoint additional projects as it continues its assessment of the existing systems, further positioning Neosho for a future of sustainable and high-quality water services.

Neosho Mayor Tom Workman noted, “The decision to sell the city’s water and wastewater systems was made with careful consideration of our residents' long-term needs. This acquisition allows us to elevate our community's service and ensures the necessary support for our infrastructure.” He commended Missouri American Water for its intended investments and focus on seamless transition for existing customers.

Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

High-quality customer service remains a fundamental priority for Missouri American Water, which recently ranked highest in customer satisfaction among large utilities in the Midwest according to J.D. Power. Customers in Neosho will soon receive detailed information about their new services via mail, alongside updates available on a newly dedicated webpage on the Missouri American Water website, under Customer Service and Billing.

Neosho residents will also benefit from modern conveniences such as online account management and assistance programs, including the H2O Help to Others program which supports qualifying customers with their water and wastewater bills. This dedication to customer support reflects Missouri American Water’s mission to make positive impacts in the communities it serves.

About American Water

As the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, American Water (NYSE: AWK) has a legacy of over 140 years in delivering high-quality, reliable water services. With operations spanning 14 states and 19 military installations, American Water services approximately 14 million individuals. The company’s core philosophy, “We Keep Life Flowing®,” underlines its commitment to ensuring access to safe drinking water and wastewater services for the communities it serves.

In summary, the acquisition of Neosho's water and wastewater systems marks a significant step towards enhancing the quality of life for residents, ensuring that they benefit from reliable, modernized water services backed by decades of industry expertise.