Baltimore City Residents Rally to Protect Water Services

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BALTIMORE – Hundreds of city residents joined at City Hall last month to protest a potential city deal to outsource the city’s water to a foreign-owned company, Veolia, with a track record of rate hikes, labor abuses and contract failures.

"Veolia is known globally for two things: rate hikes and labor abuses," said Dr. Lester Spence, associate professor of Political Science and Africana Studies at Johns Hopkins University. "Given Veolia's track record, Baltimore residents should be wary of any potential contract. Such a contract could lead to higher water bills, lower wages and deteriorating service."

Jonathon Epps, a 15-year employee with the Department of Public Works expressed his pride for the work he does to keep the city safe and clean.

“The work I do keeps our community safe, prevents disease and limits the rodent population,” he said. “By coming to work every day, I know I am making a difference in my city. I call on City Council and the mayor to keep our public water public – we do a good job and we are committed to our neighborhoods and our city.”

“Today’s gathering is intended to bring to light the hurt that residents feel all across the city due to policies by this administration and the City Council,” said the Rev. Dr. Al Hathaway, senior pastor at Union Baptist Church.

“We need our elected officials to put the needs of the people first, creating good jobs, permanent affordable housing, quality education, safer neighborhoods and strong public services.”
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