Politics & Government
City Puts Off Water Rate Hike—For Now
The City of Chicago has passed down a 25 percent increase for its water supply, but Oak Forest aldermen want to take a closer look before that trickles down to a $1 hike per 1,000 gallons used by residents.
Oak Forest residents won't see the effects of a 25 percent increase in —yet. Aldermen Tuesday voted to table an increase in local water rates.
Finance Director Colleen Julian suggested a $1 increase per 1,000 gallons used, but insisted on taking a closer look at other ways to cover the cost.
"Every time we turn around, we put another burden (on the taxpayers)," said Ald. Richard Simon.
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The City of Chicago upped its rates effective Jan. 1, 2012, and Julian urged the council to consider an Oak Forest increase sooner rather than later, as Chicago's rates will increase annually. Each resident would see an approximate increase of $20 per quarter, officials said.
A rate increase would help cover the increase in supply cost, as well as cover a current $700,000 deficit in the Water and Sewer Fund.
Find out what's happening in Oak Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"This will not be the last time I sit up here," Julian said. "Our water fund is intended to be self-supporting through user fees."
Treasurer Dwayne Fox advised aldermen against operating on a deficit.
"You can't have a negative fund balance," Fox said. "It's against city policy."
Ald. Dan Ensing suggested that the city take a closer look at other areas to cut costs, before looking to residents to compensate.
The council is expected to discuss the water rate hike at its Jan. 24 meeting.
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