CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The city is nearing approval for a new board to oversee its Gas and Water Department, replacing the City Council as the utility’s governing body.
The proposal was approved Monday by both the Gas and Water Committee and the Finance Committee. If approved by the City Council, the Clarksville Gas and Water Board would be created as of Jan. 1, 2026.
Clarksville Gas & Water (CGW) manages gas, water and sewer systems inside and outside city limits. Because of that, CGW Director Mark Riggins said the new board would be open to a member who resides outside of Clarksville. “It will allow for representation of our entire customer base,” Riggins said during the Finance Committee meeting. “Our plan is for at least one of those board members – we’re going to try to find someone – who owns property in both the city and the county. That way our outside-city residents have representation as well.”
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CGW ratepayers would be better served under the new board with improved customer representation, according to a press release from city spokesman Jimmy Settle. The new board would handle budgeting, capital projects and setting rates.
Several factors influence CGW rates. This includes maintenance of older systems, compliance with all mandates, and expansion to prepare for more growth.
Public ownership continues
Riggins said some things will remain the same. “We will remain a publicly owned utility. All of you know how important that is to me.”
According to the press release, staying publicly owned while building a board of local people who represent the customers will keep CGW accountable to the community it serves.
The City Council is expected to discuss the matter at its Executive Session on Thursday at 4:30 p.m., then vote at its Regular Session on Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. Both meetings are held in Council Chambers on Public Square.
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