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Politics & Government

Broadview Faces $500,000 of Unpaid Water Bills, Begins Shutoff Policy

Effective June 1, 2025, the Village will begin shutting off water service to accounts with outstanding balances over $100.

Public Works Director Matthew Ames explained to the Broadview Board of Trustees at their May 19 meeting the water shut off policy regarding delinquent accounts.
Public Works Director Matthew Ames explained to the Broadview Board of Trustees at their May 19 meeting the water shut off policy regarding delinquent accounts. (Screen Capture)

(BROADVIEW, IL) – In a move to address mounting non-revenue water (NRW) losses, the Village of Broadview has launched a targeted initiative to recoup nearly $500,000 in unpaid water bills owed by approximately 120 residential and commercial properties. Effective June 1, 2025, the Village will begin shutting off water service to accounts with outstanding balances over $100.

This action follows two months of advance notice to delinquent property owners, who were contacted by letter outlining the overdue balances and the consequences of non-payment. These communications were part of the Village’s commitment to transparency and fairness in resolving long-standing billing issues.

“Half a million dollars in unpaid water bills places an unacceptable strain on our village’s budget,” said Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson. “This prevents us from making necessary investments in our water infrastructure and is unfair to the majority of our residents and businesses who responsibly pay their water bills on time.”

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The Village has undertaken annual water leak investigations to identify sources of non-revenue water. These assessments have uncovered both system inefficiencies and faulty water meters that, in some cases, compromised revenue collection. Broadview is actively working to upgrade water metering infrastructure and improve billing accuracy.

Recognizing the financial challenges some residents may face, the Village will offer case-by-case assistance and income-based payment arrangements to help those who are struggling.

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“Our goal is not to punish residents, but to restore accountability and sustainability to our water system,” Thompson emphasized.

The Village of Broadview urges all affected account holders to contact the Water Department immediately to make arrangements and avoid service disruption.

For more information or to discuss payment options, please contact the Village of Broadview Administrator Letisa Jones at 708.681.3600 ext. 260 or visit www.broadview-il.gov.

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