Missouri American Water announced the completion of its purchase of the City of Neosho’s water and wastewater systems for $34.5 million. The sale was approved by the Neosho City Council on Aug. 19, 2025 and cleared by the Missouri Public Service Commission on June 24, 2026. The company issued a press release on Sep. 3, 2026 confirming the transaction.
The acquisition brings roughly 5,400 water customers and an equal number of wastewater customers into Missouri American Water’s service area. The utility also retained 25 employees who previously operated the Neosho systems. Missouri American Water now serves about 1.7 million people in the state with a workforce of more than 700, while its parent, American Water, operates as a regulated utility for approximately 14 million customers across 14 states and 19 military installations.
Missouri American Water plans to invest about $35 million in the Neosho assets over the next five years, subject to commission approval. Planned spending includes replacement of water and wastewater mains, identification and removal of lead and galvanized‑steel service lines, upgrades to aging infrastructure such as the Buffalo Creek lift station, and the integration of technology for leak detection and wastewater‑treatment compliance.
Neosho Mayor Tom Workman said the sale was made after careful consideration of the long‑term needs of residents and the significant investment required to maintain and improve the critical systems.
