As I assume my new role as Executive Director, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the customers of the Mohawk Valley Water Authority. I am proud to have served this community in many ways over the years, and vow to strengthen my commitment to the area as the leader of MVWA. I began my career working for Monroe County Pure Waters in Rochester, NY. Originally from the Mohawk Valley, I relocated back to the area and have been in the Water Quality Department at the Authority for the past 27 years, serving the last ten as the Director of Water Quality. With confidence and enthusiasm, I look forward to leading MVWA as its next Executive Director.

I would like to publicly extend my congratulations to Patrick Becher on his retirement from MVWA after 28 years. Pat was the first Executive Director hired by the then newly formed authority and has led the organization from its infancy. His ability to move MVWA forward is remarkable and he leaves it in a much better position than it was when he started. I wish him the best as he enters a new phase of life – his presence will be missed.

MVWA has many pressing challenges ahead. The regulatory environment is increasingly difficult to navigate and the system’s infrastructure, consisting of nearly 700 miles of pipe, needs attention. Key issues include removing all lead service lines by 2037, acting on any contaminants of emerging concern, and replacing or rehabilitating water lines, valves, hydrants, and pumpstations that have reached end-of-life status. Workforce issues related to the retirement of experienced employees and recruitment & retention of their replacements will not be easy to overcome. However, senior managers are working hard to conquer these barriers in a responsible manner. MVWA is not alone in these challenges, and staff remain engaged at the local, state, and federal level to share experiences and lessons learned with other utility leaders from across the U.S.

Affordability remains central to meeting these challenges. Keeping water rates at levels affordable for our customers is a responsibility we fully understand. It is imperative that we all understand the value of water and the full cost of providing the drinking water that is required to sustain and advance this community. We also need to be prepared to partner in economic development opportunities for the greater region. Providing high quality drinking water in sufficient quantity is essential to marketing the Mohawk Valley as an area that welcomes industry and can support any business or housing development needed for its workforce.

I appreciate the support of the Board of Directors, staff, and you, our valued customers, as we transition to new leadership at MVWA. You have my commitment towards efficient operations, financial stability, advanced planning, and proactive engagement with this community, its business leaders, and regional partners. MVWA will continue to provide you with high quality water and to manage water rates to meet the needs of all our constituents. I wish you all the best in 2026 and beyond.

Kindest regards,

Philip A. Tangorra
Executive Director, MVWA