Earlier today, residents joined City officials for an open house at the historic Three Rivers Water Filtration Plant to celebrate City Utilities’ receipt of the 25-Year Directors Award from the Partnership for Safe Water.
City of Fort Wayne news release:
Community, City Utilities Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence
Fort Wayne, Indiana (July 2, 2025) — Earlier today, residents joined Deputy Mayor Karl Bandemer, City Council members and City Utilities’ staff for an Open House at the historic Three Rivers Water Filtration Plant. The event celebrated City Utilities’ receipt of the 25-Year Directors Award from the Partnership for Safe Water.
The milestone award recognizes 25 years of outstanding operational excellence, public health protection and a deep commitment to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water to the residents of Fort Wayne.
During the ceremony, Deputy Mayor Bandemer highlighted the vital role City Utilities plays in supporting the city’s growth, health, and daily life.
“A strong water utility is at the foundation of a healthy, vibrant and growing city. Safe and reliable water isn’t just something we turn on at the tap; it is essential for public health, our businesses, hospitals, schools, and our everyday lives,” said Deputy Mayor Bandemer. “This 25-Year Directors Award shows the community — and the nation — that our Utility isn’t just meeting standards; it’s leading the way in protecting public health and delivering quality.”
“Over the past 25 years, we’ve faced major challenges,” noted Kumar Menon, Director of City Utilities. “From the 2012 drought, when we helped supply a neighboring utility, to the COVID-19 crisis, when our essential workers kept water flowing when needed most. This honor isn’t just about the past; it reflects a spirit of continuous improvement and resiliency that defines who we are today.”
Following the remarks, guests raised a glass with the award-winning water to toast the team’s hard work, and the fundamental service provided to the community every day.
The Partnership for Safe Water award is a joint effort of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the American Water Works Association (AWWA), the World Environmental Federation (WEF), the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (AMWA, the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA), the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC), and the Water Research Foundation (WRF).
After the formal festivities, residents had the opportunity to interact with staff, learn about the water treatment process, and explore the history of the landmark filtration plant.The Three Rivers Water Filtration Plant, located at the confluence of Fort Wayne’s three rivers, can produce up to 72 million gallons of water per day, supporting the health and vitality of the entire region.
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