Politics & Government
Oak Forest Raises Water and Sewer Rates in 2014
A 19-percent hike from the city's water suppliers is to blame for Oak Forest's increase, officials say.
Oak Forest residents' water and sewer bills could be higher in 2014 because of a city rate increase.
The City of Oak Forest has raised water and sewer rates beginning Jan. 1, because of a cost increase from water suppliers, according to a city press release.
Oak Forest receives its water from Lake Michigan thanks to a pact between the City of Chicago and the Village of Oak Lawn. The rate those municipalities charge increases 19 percent this year, the release stated.
“The cost of the water from Chicago is the largest component of the water rate,” City Administrator Troy Ishler stated in the release. “Chicago has raised the cost of water by 55 percent in the last three years and will raise the water rate another 15 percent next year.”
The rate increase also is needed to keep the Oak Forest's water and sewer fund self-supporting, the release stated.
Here's a breakdown of the rate increases and how they could change your bills:
Water Rates
TIER 1
(per 1,000 gallons for first 25,000 gallons)
2013: $6.65
2014: $7.31
TIER 2
(per 1,000 gallons for above 25,000 gallons)
2013: $7.36
2014: $8.21
Sewer Rates
(per 1,000 gallons)
2013: $1.52
2014: $1.73
Combined Rates
($15 quarterly water base fee remains unchanged)Tier 1 Quarterly Increase: 87 cents
Tier 2 Quarterly Increase: $1.06
Sample Bills
Based on quarterly usage rates5 GALLONS
Total: $60.22
Increase: $4.35
20 GALLONS
Total: $195.90
Increase: $17.42
30 GALLONS
Total: $290.81
Increase: $27.06
SOURCE: City of Oak Forest
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