DUPAGE WATER COMMISSION INCREASES VILLAGE’S COST TO PURCHASE WATER BY 17%
THE VILLAGE WILL NEED TO INCREASE ITS WATER RATES TO OFFSET THE COST OF THIS INCREASE FROM THE DUPAGE WATER COMMISSION (DWC). FIRST VILLAGE WATER INCREASE SINCE 9 YEARS AGO IN 2001.
The new rate approved by the DWC is a significant impact on the Village’s budget. To maintain our services, as well as fund our long-term water system needs, the Board has determined a 20% increase is necessary at this time.
Last night, at the regular meeting of the Village of Willowbrook Board of Trustees, new water rates were approved. The new rates, as described below, will be effective for Village users on May 1, 2010.
Residential Quarterly Rate Current Rate New Rate
First 36k gallons $3.99 $4.79
All over 36k gallons $4.60 $5.52
Minimum Bill
(9,000 gallons or less) $35.91 $43.09
Commercial Monthly Rate
First 12k gallons $3.99 $4.79
All over 12k Gallons $4.60 $5.52
For an average single family water bill the 20% increase will cost an additional $9 per month or $108 per year.
In the coming weeks, all residential and business water customers will be formally notified of the new rate structure by mail.
This is the first time the Village has increased water rates since 2001. In fact, this increase is in response to the higher cost Willowbrook will now incur to purchase water for resale from the DuPage Water Commission (DWC). A recent forensic audit of the DWC revealed $69 million in reserve funds were misspent. To continue to fund operations and meet debt obligations, the DWC has increased the rate to purchase water by 17%. The DWC Board approved their new rate of $2.08 on April 8, 2010.
Questions regarding the new water rates should be directed to the Village’s Utility Billing Clerk, Pam Phillips.