Illinois American Water is proposing a rate increase to tackle aging infrastructure, replace lead service lines, and build more resilient systems as communities grow. However, residents and officials argue the corporation should fund improvements from its profits instead of burdening customers. At a recent Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) hearing, approximately 160 attendees, including representatives from Bolingbrook, Homer Glen, and Woodridge, voiced their concerns.
Residents stated they shouldn’t have to choose between paying water bills or buying essentials. They emphasized that water is a necessity, and consumers cannot switch to a different utility for better rates. Homer Glen Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike questioned why Illinois American Water hadn’t communicated their reasons for the rate increase in prior meetings.
The company reduced its request from $143 million to about $129 million over two years. An average residential water customer using 3,500 gallons monthly would face a $10 increase, while wastewater services would rise by $23 monthly. The proposed rates aim to support $577 million in system improvements through December 2027.
The ICC is expected to decide on the proposal by December 18. This would mark the fourth rate hike in ten years for Illinois American Water. The Citizens Utility Board, represented by Jim Chilsen, opposes the increase. Chilsen highlighted that residents have spoken against rate hikes before, expressing frustration that their concerns are overlooked.
Residents like April Palmer and Allaina Humphreys shared their financial struggles with high water bills. April stated that frequent and close-together increases are unjustified given the company’s profits. Public comments also included demands for better response times to service issues, as noted by Nancy Mizura regarding flood response delays.
Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta noted her work with legislators to oppose the rate hike, emphasizing that customer bills average around $220 monthly. She expressed disappointment that ICC commissioners do not attend hearings personally, only reading transcripts afterward.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey urged the ICC to reject the rate increase, arguing that Illinois families cannot choose another water company, so the commission must protect them from excessive rates.
Illinois American Water President Rebecca Losli defended the proposal, stating that water and wastewater systems require significant capital investment. Since 2015, the company has invested over $2 billion, reducing service disruptions and improving reliability. Losli noted that the company offers assistance programs for lower-income customers in collaboration with local Salvation Army branches.
The ICC continues to accept written comments from affected customers via its website or through its consumer services division.
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