The transition, approved by the Kentucky Public Service Commission throughout the summer and early fall of 2026, includes the integration of 10 former district employees into the Kentucky American Water workforce. Harlan County Judge Executive Dan Mosley welcomed the shift, noting that local residents have endured significant service disruptions in recent years. The company’s planned capital improvements focus on replacing water meters within the first year, alongside comprehensive upgrades to pump stations and system-wide security monitoring. These efforts follow recent emergency collaboration between the two entities to restore service to 200 homes affected by flooding in the region.

Rob Burton, president of Kentucky American Water, stated that the company aims to apply its broader regional expertise to stabilize the system for its new client base. Customers are expected to receive transition materials via mail, with access to digital management tools like the MyWater portal and the H2O Help to Others financial assistance program. The acquisition marks a significant expansion for the firm, which currently serves approximately 550,000 people across the Commonwealth.