Press Releases
09/27/2023
PURA Vice Chairman Betkoski III Re-elected Chairman of CT Water Planning Council
(New Britain, CT – September 27, 2023) – Vice Chairman John W. “Jack” Betkoski III has been re-elected chairman of the Connecticut Water Planning Council (WPC), which oversees implementation of the first comprehensive State Water Plan.
Betkoski was unanimously elected to serve as chairman at the WPC’s regular meeting earlier this month. The one-year term expires June 30, 2024.
“I am honored to serve once again as chairman of this important council and thank my distinguished colleagues for their support,” said Betkoski. “Water is our most precious resource. We need water to sustain life, economic development, recreation, and pubic safety. I am passionate about protecting our water supply so that it will be readily available forever.”
Established by the General Assembly in 2001, the WPC is tasked with addressing issues involving water companies, water resources, and state policies regarding the future of the state’s drinking water supply. In 2019, the WPC adopted a State Water Plan to balance the needs of public water supply, economic development, recreation, and ecological health.
Betkoski has played a significant role leading the WPC, which includes three other members representing the Department of Public Health, the Office of Policy and Management, and the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection. The WPC is also supported by an Advisory Group and Implementation Workgroup.
Betkoski has served in several leadership roles throughout state and local government for more than 40 years.
From 1987 to 1997, Betkoski served as state representative from the 105th District representing the towns of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby and Seymour. He currently serves as chairman of Beacon Falls’ Economic Development Commission.
Betkoski joined PURA, formerly named the Department of Public Utility Control, as commissioner in 1997. He was elected vice chairman of the agency in 2007.
Betkoski formerly served as president of the New England Conference of Public Utilities Commissioners and president of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.
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For Immediate Release: September 27, 2023
Contact: Taren O’Connor
Taren.Oconnor@ct.gov
860-999-3498
Joe Cooper
Joe.Cooper@ct.gov
860-944-9459