Joplin, Mo. – September 08, 2026 -- Missouri American Water has completed a $34.5 million acquisition of the City of Neosho's water and wastewater systems, adding roughly 5,400 water customers and 5,400 wastewater customers to its regulated base.
Deal brings 25 Neosho employees under Missouri American Water
The transaction, unanimously approved by Neosho City Council on August 19, 2025, and cleared by the Missouri Public Service Commission on June 24, 2026, transfers 25 employees who previously served the systems to Missouri American Water.
Company commits $35 million for infrastructure over five years
Subject to PSC approval, Missouri American Water plans to invest approximately $35 million in the Neosho systems over the next five years. Planned work includes facility upgrades, replacement of water and wastewater mains, leak-detection technology, and wastewater treatment compliance with federal and state standards.
The utility also intends to identify and replace all lead and galvanized steel service lines, upgrade aging water mains, and replace the Buffalo Creek lift station. Additional projects are expected to be identified as the company completes its system analysis.
Neosho mayor cites long-term investment needs behind sale
Neosho Mayor Tom Workman said the sale followed consideration of the long-term needs of residents and the capital required to maintain the systems, adding that the deal positions the community for experienced utility operations and planned infrastructure improvements.
Missouri American Water president outlines modernization priorities
Rich Svindland, President of Missouri American Water, said the company is positioned to modernize infrastructure, remove lead and galvanized service lines, and improve reliability for the new customer base.
Missouri American Water was recently ranked highest in customer satisfaction among large utilities in the Midwest by J.D. Power. Residents will receive mailed information in the coming weeks, with details also posted on a dedicated webpage under the company's Customer Service and Billing section. New customers can access online account management, billing tools, and the H2O Help to Others bill-assistance program for qualifying households.