Local Leaders Oppose Proposed Water Rate Hike by Illinois American Water
Officials from the southwest suburbs are calling on the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to refuse a proposed water and sewer rate increase from Illinois American Water. Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta emphasized the essential nature of water, alongside electricity and natural gas, for maintaining dignity, safety, and health in families. Mayor Alexander-Basta highlighted the financial burden, noting Bolingbrook residents already face average water bills of $220 a month.
The increase is particularly concerning for senior citizens on fixed incomes and households already struggling with rising living costs like food, insurance, and housing. State Representative Dagmara Avelar expressed concern that residents should not have to choose between basic necessities.
Illinois American Water seeks a $136.3 million rate increase, as documented by the ICC. The Citizens Utility Board, a state watchdog, urges the ICC to reject this proposal, as well as one from Aqua Illinois. They serve multiple Chicago area towns. American Water aims to acquire Aqua’s parent company, Essential Utilities, which the Citizens Utility Board also opposes.
Alexander-Basta noted this proposal follows four rate increases over the past decade adding up to approximately $319 million. She encourages resident attendance at a July 14 public forum at Bolingbrook Community Center.
“Every penny counts, every dollar matters,” Alexander-Basta stated. “When essential services become less affordable, silence is not an option.”
Homer Glen Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike shares opposition to the rate hike and plans to join the protest. About 6,000 Homer Glen households are affected. Neitzke-Troike hopes for strong community participation, encouraging residents to submit official comments to the ICC against the rate increase and merger with Aqua Illinois.
The Homer Glen website provides information on how residents can voice their concerns and check their water bills for discrepancies. Neitzke-Troike affirmed the village’s opposition to the proposal, working with the Illinois attorney general, lobbyists, and legislators to communicate their stance.
Illinois American Water’s rate increase filing with the ICC is to support $577 million in water and wastewater investments through December 2027. Typical customers using 3,500 gallons of water would face a monthly increase of about $14, with wastewater customers seeing a $28 increase. New rates are slated for January 2027. The ICC decision is expected by December.
At a Wednesday event, Alexander-Basta called on Illinois American Water to fund improvements from their current revenue rather than burdening consumers. Bolingbrook attorney Burton Odelson said the village remains committed to fighting unjust utility rates. He affirmed, “Public utility laws require rates to be just and reasonable.”
Residents unable to attend the July 14 forum can submit comments to the ICC online or via phone. The ICC permits both verbal and written comments during the decision process.