Lawmaker seeks probe into water meters procurement

By THE STAR STAFF

In light of serious allegations surrounding the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority’s (PRASA) tender for the purchase of water meters, Popular Democratic Party Rep. Swanny Enit Vargas Laureano has called for full transparency in the $400 million procurement process.

Invoking the Transparency and Access to Public Information Law, Vargas Laureano announced that she has formally requested, in her personal capacity as a citizen, access to all non-confidential documents related to the recently awarded contract. This includes bidding documents, submitted proposals, evaluation criteria, the signed contract, technical assessments, official communications, budget estimates, funding sources and the project timeline.

“Let the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority be held accountable for this $400 million transaction, which is already raising concerns,” the at-large lawmaker stated.

The request, addressed to PRASA Executive President Luis González Delgado, emphasizes the public’s right to know whether the principles of fair competition, administrative efficiency, and responsible use of public funds were upheld. Vargas Laureano also asked to be notified if any documents are protected by legal exceptions and to receive the rest in either digital or physical format.

“As a citizen, I have both the right and the responsibility to oversee how public funds are used -- especially in matters that impact essential services,” she said. “Transparency is not optional; it is a cornerstone of democracy.”