Residents of Lisle Face Rising Water Expenses
Homeowners in Lisle, a suburb approximately 30 miles west of Chicago, are voicing their dissatisfaction over exceptionally high water bills. For several decades, around 350 residents in Lisle have relied on alternative water sources, as the municipal supply has lacked accessibility. Ownership of the water infrastructure has changed hands multiple times, and it is currently managed by Illinois American Water, a private utility company.
Recently, Illinois American Water has undertaken extensive pipe replacements and subsequently sought rate hikes approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Consequently, residents are observing significant increases in their water bills. One homeowner, who attended a Committee of the Whole meeting, shared that his monthly charges surged from $70 to $140 over the span of 12 and a half years. “I don’t have an in-ground pool or water my lawn. How can it double?” he questioned incredulously.
Impact on Local Community and Environment
Residents are also worried about the health of the trees in their neighborhood, known as Oak View. This area is referred to as the “Arboretum Village.” Laurel Meyers, a local homeowner, shared insights from an arborist who warned that the trees are suffering due to inadequate water supply. “How much will it cost to water these 50- and 60-year-old trees once a week?” she asked during the meeting.
Another resident detailed her experience after landscaping work increased her water usage. With a typical bill hovering around $85 to $90, she was shocked to see it spike to nearly $150 just for additional watering. “It costs you $60 for part of one day!” she lamented.
Seeking Solutions
The board convened to analyze 16 potential strategies to alleviate the financial burden on residents, as outlined in a staff document. Village Manager Jeff Cook acknowledged the concerns, stating, “We are sympathetic to the residents in Oak View.” Meanwhile, long-time Lisle resident Ed Stanley, who has lived there since 1966, shared his struggle of managing bills on a fixed income. He noted that despite not watering his lawn, water usage still leads to higher costs.
- Addressing the discrepancies in water billing, the document revealed that homeowners in Oak View are facing charges that are 300% to 400% higher than those using the Village’s water supply.
- Resident Susan Srail urged for equitable treatment, emphasizing that all homeowners deserve fair pricing for their water services.
Next Steps
The committee meeting concluded with plans to explore various options aimed at providing residents some financial relief. Among these are:
- Connecting some households to the Village water system.
- Collaborating with partners to propose regulatory changes.
- Investigating the use of eminent domain to extend Village water services to Oak View.
- Creating a funding program to subsidize high water bills.
- Promoting existing discounts for those in financial need from Illinois American Water.
In a statement, Cook mentioned that once further information is gathered regarding these proposed initiatives, Mayor Mary Jo Mullen hopes to arrange an informational meeting in an open house format, accompanied by a survey to assess community support.
Mullen advised that these solutions will require time to develop, assuring residents that comprehensive strategies will be proposed for consideration.
| Location | Average Bill | Price Discrepancy |
|---|---|---|
| Oak View Residents | $140 | 300%-400% higher |
| Village Residents | $30 – $60 | – |
Previous reports from CBS News Chicago have highlighted the ongoing water billing issues in Lisle, with Illinois American Water reiterating its commitment to offering safe and reliable service to its clients. The company remains open to assisting customers manage their bills through various payment options.
