Bolingbrook Files Appeal Against Illinois American Water Rate Increase

BOLINGBROOK, IL — The Village of Bolingbrook has filed an appeal in the Third Judicial District Appellate Court challenging the Illinois American Water rate increase which was granted by the Illinois Commerce Commission last year.

Illinois American Water provides water for most of Bolingbrook's residents. On Dec. 5, the Illinois Commerce Commission approved a $110 million rate hike for Illinois American Water, about 30 percent less than the $152.4 million increase the company originally proposed, according to a release from the commission.

The decision also approved a 9.84 percent return on equity for the company, which was a reduction from the utility's requested 10.75 percent ROE.

The Village said it argued against the rate increase in December, and Village Attorney, Burt Odelson, presented a strong case, emphasizing that water is a basic necessity and vital resource no one should struggle to afford.

According to a news release, Bolingbrook was the only local municipality to present oral arguments at the hearing.

Now, to continue its opposition against the rate increase, the Village filed an appeal Feb. 11. The Village said it is also working with State Senator Rachel Ventura.

"Today, the Village needs your help in taking this issue to our state officials," the Village said in a release. "The ICC is made up of commissioners appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate. It is also the responsibility of the state legislators to pass the laws that the ICC must follow."

Residents can help by reaching out directly to Bria Scudder Deputy Governor based in Chicago bria.scudder@illinois.gov and to their own state representatives and let them know how crushing IAW's rates are to their daily lives.

You can also reach out to Governor JB Pritzker directly by sending a letter to Office of the Governor, 401 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL 62704 or reach out by phone at 217-782-6830. You can also reach out to the Governor online by going to https://gov.illinois.gov/contact-us/voice-an-opinion.html.