Valley Water Systems, Inc.

Valley Water Systems, Inc. Municipal Water Report Information

Located west of the intersection of routes I-84 and 72 in central Connecticut, Valley Water Systems, Inc (VWS) provides metered service primarily to Plainville and portions of Farmington and Southington. The Company delivers approximately 1.8 million gallons daily to more than 6,700 customers in a region with a substantial commercial and industrial base.

VWS employs seven staff members and operates under a six-member Board of Directors, accountable to roughly 250 shareholders. This organization's size is representative of several investor-owned water utilities throughout the Farmington River Valley.

As a mid-sized company, VWS faces challenges similar to those encountered by Superintendent Joseph McKiernan back in 1912. McKiernan noted: "The old cement lined pipe has nearly reached its useful lifespan, and I recommend gradual replacement with cast-iron pipe, using nothing smaller than 6" pipe, except for short extensions. I further suggest installing additional gate valves for better system control. Your superintendent would like to address grading and beautification of the pumping station grounds soon."

During the intervening years, competing priorities delayed the replacement of that "old cement lined pipe," sharing space with other infrastructure challenges requiring the Company's attention in this capital-intensive industry. Today, VWS has replaced most of that aging CLCC pipe and is addressing new infrastructure needs. This comprehensive pipe replacement has so improved the system's hydraulic capacity that VWS now ranks at the top of the Insurance Service Office's (ISO) rating scale—a key authority for insurance industry underwriters.

The Company's achievements wouldn't be possible without its skilled workforce. While water utilities of this size once survived on hard work alone, today's municipal water industry demands specialized expertise and dedication. VWS employees either hold advanced degrees or specific licenses to operate drinking water facilities. Veteran staff bring valuable experience that enhances efficiency, while newer employees contribute modern skills that benefit the entire team.

With this expertise, the Company leverages technology to increase productivity while maximizing customer-to-employee ratios. These advancements include SCADA systems, radio-frequency meters, and advanced computer networks that you'll see implemented by the employees featured throughout our website.

Guiding the Company are our knowledgeable Directors who bring individual expertise to the Board: Pauline Ahern, William Galske, Nicholas LaChance, Richard A. McGrath, Donald J.E. Vaughan, and Stephen Densberger. They remain accessible to all customers and stakeholders.