The Authority of the Borough of Charleroi, commonly referred to as ABC Water, stands as a critical utility pillar for thousands of residents in the Monongahela Valley region of Pennsylvania. Established with a mandate to provide safe, reliable, and high-quality water and sewer services, the authority has evolved through over a century of industrial change and municipal growth. For residents of Charleroi, Donora, Monessen, and several surrounding townships, understanding how this authority operates is essential for managing daily household needs and ensuring compliance with local utility regulations.

Understanding the Scope of the Authority of the Borough of Charleroi (ABC)

Operating out of its central office in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, the Authority of the Borough of Charleroi is more than just a local water provider. it is a complex regional entity that manages the extraction, treatment, and distribution of potable water while overseeing the sanitation needs of a diverse geographic area. The authority operates under the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Act, ensuring that its governance remains focused on the public interest and the maintenance of essential infrastructure.

Municipalities Served by ABC Water

The reach of ABC Water extends across county lines, bridging communities in both Washington County and Westmoreland County. This regional approach allows for shared infrastructure costs and a more robust response to environmental challenges. Currently, the service area includes:

  • Washington County: The Boroughs of Charleroi, North Charleroi, Dunlevy, Speers, Donora, Cokeburg, Bentleyville, Twilight, and Ellsworth. It also serves Fallowfield Township and significant portions of Somerset Township.
  • Westmoreland County: The City of Monessen and specific areas within Rostraver Township.

Serving approximately 27,000 residents through more than 10,600 individual service connections, the authority manages a network that must remain operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This vast footprint requires constant monitoring and a high degree of coordination between municipal leaders and the authority’s technical staff.

How to Manage Your ABC Water Account and Billing

Navigating utility accounts can often be a source of frustration for new residents or those transitioning between properties. The Authority of the Borough of Charleroi maintains strict protocols regarding account responsibility, particularly following significant policy changes enacted in recent years to streamline administrative tasks and ensure financial stability for the utility.

Procedures for New Property Owners

If you have recently purchased a property within the ABC service area, establishing water and sewer service in your name is a priority. The authority requires a transition of responsibility that involves physical documentation. Owners must provide legal proof of ownership, such as a deed, a signed settlement statement, or a recognized tax document. It is important to note that mortgage or loan documents are generally not accepted as primary proof of ownership.

The process typically requires an in-person visit to the customer service center located at 3 McKean Avenue in Charleroi. During this visit, the owner must sign an authority contract. If the owner cannot attend in person, the authority allows for documents to be handled via mail, though this incurs a $25.00 processing fee and requires the documents to be notarized to prevent identity theft and fraud.

Critical Information for Tenants and Lessees

For those renting homes or commercial spaces, the rules for water service changed significantly on January 1, 2021. Under Resolution 2020-13, tenants and lessees are no longer permitted to apply for water contracts directly with the authority in their own names. Instead, the property owner of record must maintain the contract and remain the primary responsible party for the account.

While the owner holds the contract, a tenant may still be listed on the account for billing purposes if certain conditions are met. The tenant must provide a copy of their lease agreement or a formal letter from the landlord granting permission to sign for the account. Furthermore, a security deposit is typically required for tenants: $75.00 for water service and an additional $75.00 for sewer service where applicable. These deposits are held by the authority and applied to the final bill when the tenant eventually terminates service at that specific property.

Payment Options and Methods

ABC Water offers several channels for bill payment to accommodate different preferences. Understanding these options can help residents avoid late fees and ensure continuous service.

  1. Online Payments: Through the official ABC Water portal, customers can create an account to manage their monthly statements. The system accepts credit cards, debit cards, and direct deposits (eACH). There is also an option for one-time payments for those who prefer not to create a permanent online profile.
  2. Phone Payments: Residents can utilize a dedicated automated system by calling 1-833-279-4419. This is a convenient option for those who may not have immediate internet access but wish to pay via card.
  3. In-Person and Mail: The business office on McKean Avenue is open Monday through Friday, typically from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (though office hours for public walk-ins may end at 4:00 PM). Payments can be dropped off during these hours or sent via USPS to P.O. Box 211, Charleroi, PA 15022.
  4. Auto-Pay: Setting up recurring payments through a bank account is highly recommended for long-term residents to ensure bills are never overlooked.

Water Quality, Safety Standards, and Treatment Processes

The primary concern for any water utility customer is the safety and purity of the water coming out of the tap. The Authority of the Borough of Charleroi takes a rigorous approach to water treatment, utilizing modern technology to process raw water from the Monongahela River.

From the Monongahela River to Your Tap

The Monongahela River serves as the sole source of raw water for the ABC system. Under a permit issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP), the authority is authorized to withdraw up to 9.0 million gallons per day.

The treatment facility, located within the Borough of Charleroi, utilizes a state-of-the-art membrane filtration system. The treatment process involves several critical stages:

  • Intake and Pumping: Raw water is drawn from the river and pumped into the facility.
  • Chemical Addition and Flocculation: Specific chemicals are added to the water to cause small particles (like silt and organic matter) to clump together, forming "floc."
  • Pre-Sedimentation: The heavy floc particles settle to the bottom of large tanks, allowing clearer water to move forward in the process.
  • Membrane Filtration: This is the heart of the modern plant. The water is pushed through microscopic membranes that act as physical barriers, removing bacteria, viruses, and other fine particulates that traditional sand filters might miss.
  • Chlorination: A final disinfection step ensures that the water remains safe as it travels through the 150 miles of transmission lines to reach your home.

Recent Lead and Copper Sampling Results

Lead and copper levels are a major focus of modern water utility management. ABC Water conducts comprehensive sampling every three years in compliance with federal regulations. The 2025 sampling cycle provided encouraging results for the community. All samples were found to be well below the lead action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). In fact, thirteen of the samples showed no detectable lead at all.

Despite these positive results, the authority remains proactive in identifying and replacing lead service lines. In late 2024, the authority began a systemic inventory of service lines across its entire territory. Residents may receive letters if their property is identified as having a lead service line, a galvanized line requiring replacement, or if the authority’s records are incomplete. This inventory is a critical step in ensuring long-term public health and complying with the latest EPA Lead and Copper Rule Improvements.

Maintenance, Emergencies, and Resident Responsibilities

A water distribution system is a living infrastructure that requires constant upkeep. From the 680 fire hydrants to the 9.5 million gallons of total storage capacity across various reservoirs and tanks, the physical assets of ABC Water are vast.

Reporting a Water Main Break

Water main breaks are an unfortunate reality, especially in regions with fluctuating temperatures. A break can be identified by water bubbling up from the street, a sudden loss of water pressure, or localized flooding.

If you suspect a water main break or any other water-related emergency, it is vital to contact the authority immediately.

  • During Business Hours (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM): Call (724) 483-3585.
  • After Hours and Weekends: Call (724) 483-5411.

Quick reporting helps the authority's maintenance crews isolate the break and minimize the loss of treated water, which ultimately helps keep rates stable for all consumers.

Preventing Frozen Pipes and Meters

During the harsh Western Pennsylvania winters, the responsibility for protecting internal plumbing falls on the resident. The authority maintains responsibility for the water line from the main to the curb box, but the customer is responsible for the line from the curb box into the building, including the protection of the water meter itself.

To prevent the significant cost and damage associated with frozen pipes, the authority recommends:

  • Insulation: Wrap pipes in unheated areas (like basements or crawl spaces) with foam insulation or heat tape.
  • Draft Prevention: Seal cracks in walls or windows that allow cold air to blow directly onto pipes.
  • Consistent Heat: Maintain a thermostat setting of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when away from home.
  • Drip Strategy: On exceptionally cold nights, allow a very thin trickle of water (about the width of a pencil lead) to run from a faucet. This movement makes it much harder for ice to form within the line.

The Historical Evolution of Water Services in the Mon Valley

The story of the Authority of the Borough of Charleroi is deeply intertwined with the industrial history of the Mon Valley. The Charleroi Water Company was first incorporated in 1890, just as the region was beginning its ascent as a global center for glass and steel production. Similar companies were formed in Monessen (1897) and Donora (1900).

In 1912, the "Mellon interests" of Pittsburgh, recognizing the strategic importance of water to industrial growth, purchased the stock of these individual companies and merged them into the Tri-Cities Water Company. This merger was a turning point, as it allowed for the integration of the three separate systems into one cohesive distribution network.

The actual "Authority of the Borough of Charleroi" was created on August 29, 1938. Interestingly, it was not originally intended to manage water. Its initial purpose was to explore the creation of a municipal recreation center. However, when the opportunity to purchase the Tri-Cities Water Company arose in 1942, the authority was reorganized and shifted its focus to utility management. Since then, the system has undergone major expansions in 1949, 1966, 1983, and most recently with the installation of the membrane filtration plant, ensuring it keeps pace with modern environmental standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if my water is discolored? Discoloration often occurs during hydrant flushing or following a water main repair. This is usually caused by sediment in the lines being stirred up. Residents should avoid using hot water or doing laundry during this time. Running cold water from a bathtub or laundry tub for several minutes usually clears the line. If the problem persists for more than a few hours, contact customer service.

How is my water bill calculated? Your bill consists of two primary components: a base service charge and a volumetric consumption charge. The consumption charge is based on the amount of water recorded by your meter during the billing period. For most residents, the bill also includes sewer charges, which are often calculated based on your water usage, as most water that enters a home eventually leaves through the sewer system.

Why is there a $75.00 deposit for tenants? The deposit acts as a security measure for the authority. Since the authority cannot place a lien on a property for a tenant's unpaid bill (it can only do so for the owner), the deposit ensures that final bills can be covered if a tenant moves out without providing a final payment.

Where is the water source for ABC Water? The water is sourced entirely from the Monongahela River. The authority's intake and treatment plant are located directly along the river in Charleroi.

What is a "curb box"? A curb box is a vertical pipe that provides access to the shut-off valve for your property's water service line. It is usually located near the property line or sidewalk. It marks the boundary where the authority’s maintenance responsibility ends and the homeowner’s responsibility begins.

Are there programs for utility assistance? Yes, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and various county agencies often provide assistance programs for residents facing financial hardship. Programs like LIHWAP (Low Income Household Water Assistance Program) may be available periodically. Residents are encouraged to contact the ABC office or their local county social services department for details on current eligibility.

Conclusion

The Authority of the Borough of Charleroi remains a vital institution dedicated to the health and prosperity of the Mon Valley. From its late 19th-century origins to its current status as a technologically advanced water provider, the authority has consistently adapted to meet the needs of its 27,000 customers. By understanding the protocols for account management, staying informed about water quality reports, and following winter maintenance tips, residents can ensure a seamless experience with their utility services. As the authority continues to inventory lead lines and maintain its vast 150-mile distribution network, it continues a long tradition of service that began over 130 years ago. Whether you are a long-term resident of Monessen or a new homeowner in Fallowfield Township, ABC Water provides the essential foundation for life in your community.