Board Approves 3 Percent Water & Sewer Rate Hike

Libertyville trustees voted unanimously (6-0) to approve an ordinance amending/adjusting different fees throughout the village during their May 10 meeting - but perhaps the most notable change will come in residents' bi-monthy water and sewer bills.

According to documents provided by the village, residents will see a 3 percent annual increase in their monthly water and sewer bills, effective May 1, 2012. 

One reason for the rate increase, according to trustees, is the fact other agencies have raised their prices for services used by residents, forcing Libertyville to pass along the increased costs. 

Among the costs passed along to village residents were a 37-cent Lake County sewer rate increase (on a minimum bill) and a 6-cent Joint Action Water Agency price hike.

During a Water & Sewer Committee meeting prior to the regular board meeting, trustee Donna Johnson explained she wished the village didn't have to raise rates, but felt they had little choice.

"While we would like to [reduce water and sewer rates], I don't see how it is feasible as of right now," Johnson explained. "We will continue to look at this [issue] every year in the future and try our best to see if we can give residents a discount."

According to documents provided during the Water & Sewer meeting, commissioners had also discussed the possibility of a 4.5 percent rate increase during a March meeting, but chose to opt for the 3 percent increase instead. The same documents state the village will have an estimated $82,080 budget shortfall in its water and sewer fund, even with the 3 percent rate increase.

Senior citizens and disabled individuals are eligible for a $6.25 discount per two-month billing period, but must submit an application in person to the village. The discounted rate will then take effect from the date the application is approved.

During the regular board meeting, trustees also approved small increases in various plan review, permit and inspection fees, among other items.

In other action, the board unanimously agreed to issue a special use permit allowing Libertyville Cooperative Nursery School to temporarily relocate to Trinity Community Church at 1190 W. Winchester Rd.

Although the school's staff expect their proposed construction plans for the original site will take less than a year, the school requested a two-year permit in case its plans take longer than expected.

Libertyville Cooperative Nursery School cares for and teaches children ages two to five, and has a current enrollment of 135 kids.