Gurnee water bills expected to increase by 30%

A million-dollar loss in the Water and Sewer Fund during the past year may soon lead to a 30 percent increase in water rates.

Trustee Mike Jacobs, chairman of the board's Finance Committee, said the self-sustaining Water and Sewer Fund could soon be bankrupt without prompt action.

For years, the village has purchased Lake Michigan water from the Central Lake County Joint Action Water Agency and resells it to residents at cost.

Of eight JAWA communities, Gurnee charges the least at $3.45 per 1,000 gallons. Mundelein is the most expensive at $8.21.

JAWA increased rates in 2002 and 2005, and both were absorbed by the village. Another increase occurred this year at an average increase of 7.59 percent, Jacobs said.

"During a booming economy, with significant sales tax receipts, the village was able to absorb such costs. But now, during difficult economic times, we just can't," he said.

In his report to the board next month, Jacobs said his committee will recommend that water rates for all Gurnee users be raised $1.02, or 30 percent, by Jan. 1.

The board would need to adopt an implementing ordinance in November that would automatically impose future rate increases to match those imposed by JAWA.

Jacobs also suggested a warning period and periodic advice to users on reducing water usage.

that users be provided with periodic information on how they can reduce their reliance on water, particularly during heavy summer usage.

nThe rate increase will reflect the actual cost of obtaining the product as well as ensuring the viability of maintaining our water and sewer system infrastructure in the future," he said.

• Jacobs said his committee also believes a water rate study by an independent consultant would be helpful to consider additional water rate concerns and suggest conservation options such as the use of rain barrels for watering gardens, recommend use of energy- efficient washing machines, dishwashers and other green conservation technologies.

Gurnee