Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) has raised concerns about Liberty New York Water’s business practices, criticizing the company for what he describes as deceptive billing and significant rate increases. In a letter addressed to the utility, Brown cited recent hikes that have pushed rates up by more than 43% within two years. He also pointed to aggressive enforcement related to backflow and irrigation compliance, which he says has led to threats of water shutoffs for customers over paperwork issues.
Brown’s letter further mentions problems with faulty meter installations and a lack of transparency in billing that makes it difficult for customers to understand their charges. He is calling for several measures including a full audit of the rate increases, itemized billing statements, suspension of what he calls unfair enforcement actions, protections against water shutoffs for customers acting in good faith, and refunds where overcharges are found.
“At a time when Long Islanders are seeing their cost of living rapidly increase, Liberty New York Water is adding insult to injury by profiting off of unfair business practices,” said Brown. “Liberty New York has displayed a concerning pattern of inconsistent explanations, aggressive enforcement tactics and a lack of transparency that is completely unacceptable. Increasing rates by over 40% in the last two years on working families isn’t simply inconvenient; it’s unethical. What was once a trusted utility provider has now completely eroded the public’s faith in its ability to provide services fairly. I will do everything within my power to bring down these costs for Long Islanders and make sure New York Water is held accountable for its actions.”
