HARDYSTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — Aqua New Jersey has finalized its $113,000 acquisition of the Lake Tamarack Water Corporation’s water system in Sussex County, with plans to invest approximately $1.4 million in infrastructure improvements over the next several years.
Essential Utilities Inc., the parent company of Aqua New Jersey, announced the acquisition Wednesday. The system serves approximately 255 customers in the Lake Tamarack section of Hardyston Township.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities approved the acquisition on Sept. 9, 2026.
“We are well positioned to make much needed improvements to this system in order to ensure the highest-quality drinking water service,” said Essential Utilities Chairman and CEO Christopher Franklin. “We are happy to welcome the Lake Tamarack community to the Essential family.”
According to the company, the planned $1.4 million investment will focus on strengthening water infrastructure, improving system operations and meeting regulatory, environmental and cybersecurity requirements.
Customers will also gain access to Aqua’s online customer portal and mobile app, allowing them to pay bills, monitor water usage and manage their accounts.
“Residents of Lake Tamarack will now be able to benefit from a level of service, resources, and responsiveness that was not available to them before,” said Aqua New Jersey President Natalie Chesko. “Our team of dedicated employees is committed to providing safe, reliable drinking water, and we look forward to serving this community for years to come.”
Lake Tamarack Water Corporation President Anne-Marie Wilhelm expressed confidence in the transition to Aqua New Jersey.
“We’re excited about this sale and confident in Aqua New Jersey’s ability to deliver high-quality water service,” said Lake Tamarack Water Corporation President Anne-Marie Wilhelm. “Aqua’s level of service has been outstanding throughout this process. They have treated our community with respect, provided outstanding support, and demonstrated the expertise and resources needed to modernize our system and ensure a smooth transition.”
As part of the transition, Aqua New Jersey will send communications to customers outlining service schedules and procedures.
