Tom Wyatt Discusses Rahway Water Sale Reversal and Public Input

Tom Wyatt, Chair of Obermayer’s Municipal Infrastructure and Services Practice Group, was featured in the April 22, 2026, Water Online article discussing Rahway, New Jersey’s decision to cancel its water utility sale process shortly after approving it. The move came after public opposition and shows how quickly these deals can change when financial realities and community sentiment come into play. 

Wyatt explained that decisions like this often come down to whether a deal truly benefits residents overall, not just in water rates but in total costs like taxes and debt. Public input plays a major role, particularly when residents are concerned about affordability or unclear benefits.

“Maximum feasible public participation is the key,” said Wyatt, emphasizing that transparency and community engagement are essential for any successful utility transaction.

Read the full article here.