Residents, lawmakers oppose proposed Illinois American Water rate increase at Bolingbrook hearing

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. (WLS) — Dozens of southwest suburban residents and lawmakers voiced opposition Tuesday night to Illinois American Water’s proposed $142 million rate increase during an Illinois Commerce Commission hearing in Bolingbrook.

Nearly every speaker during the first hour of the hearing spoke against the proposal, with many concerns centered on affordability and the impact of higher utility costs on families and seniors.

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Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta urged regulators to reject the request.

“Water is not a luxury. It is not optional. It is a basic human necessity,” Alexander-Basta said.

Illinois American Water President Rebecca Losli defended the proposal, saying additional revenue is needed to support infrastructure improvements.

“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.