BOLINGBROOK, Ill. (WLS) — On Tuesday night, a significant number of residents from the southwest suburbs, along with local lawmakers, gathered to express their firm opposition to a proposed $142 million rate increase by Illinois American Water. The public forum was hosted by the Illinois Commerce Commission in Bolingbrook and witnessed fervent arguments against the hike.
Throughout the opening hour of the hearing, nearly every speaker stepped forward to voice their objections. The recurring theme of these concerns revolved around the affordability of water rates and the burden that increased utility costs would place on families and senior citizens in the community.
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Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta of Bolingbrook was a prominent voice in urging the regulators to dismiss the proposed rate hike.
“Water is not a luxury. It is not optional. It is a basic human necessity,” stressed Mayor Alexander-Basta, highlighting the essential nature of water access for all residents.
In defense of the rate increase, Illinois American Water’s President Rebecca Losli pointed out the necessity for more funds to facilitate crucial infrastructure improvements. She emphasized that the enhancements are vital for maintaining water quality and service reliability.
“We do this because of our customers. We are investing in this because of you. We want less water main breaks, and less constructions, less water boil orders. Simply put, continuing to invest in our water infrastructure is critical to ensuring that we provide reliable service to all of you,” Losli said.
According to Illinois American Water, the proposed increase would add about $14 per month for a typical customer using 3,500 gallons of water. Wastewater customers would see an increase of about $28 per month.
Several residents told regulators they are still feeling the effects of the utility’s previous rate increase. Pat Smith described changes she has made to reduce water use.
“I bathe twice a week now, instead of every day. I wear my clothes multiple times before washing,” Smith said. She later added, “This is unacceptable and the longer it goes the worse it’s going to get.”
Bolingbrook resident Michael Boyd also expressed concern about the proposal’s impact on customers.
“What concerns me is the frequency and size of the proposed increase and what it means for ordinary families who are already struggling,” Boyd said.
Several elected officials also called on the Illinois Commerce Commission to deny the request.
Illinois state Rep. Natalie Manley told attendees, “Just because it’s legal does not make it right.”
Alexander-Basta echoed that sentiment, saying, “Today, Bolingbrook is taking the lead in saying what people across the state have been saying for years: Enough is enough.”
Additional hearings in the case are scheduled for August. The Illinois Commerce Commission is expected to issue a final decision by Dec. 18.
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