The City of Joliet applauds the signing of Senate Bill 280, which enables the creation of a southwest suburban regional water commission. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced the bill’s signing in a press release https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.24281.html yesterday.
“I am grateful to Governor Pritzker, Leader Larry Walsh, Jr., Senator John Connor, and the entire Joliet-area legislative delegation for making this new water commission law a reality,” said Mayor O’Dekirk. “This will enable us to address our drinking water needs as a region, for the benefit of generations to come.”
This legislation would allow Joliet and other municipalities to work together to jointly address the region’s looming water shortage. According to the Illinois State Water Survey, the deep groundwater aquifer that serves this region will no longer be able to meet water needs as early as 2030. By forming a regional water commission, these communities can partner to build a reliable alternative that will provide clean, safe drinking water from Lake Michigan to users. Working together will allow communities to maximize economies of scale and provide a more cost-effective solution for area residents.
Majority Caucus Whip Larry Walsh, Jr. and State Senator John Connor introduced this important legislation with the support of other area legislators. Senators Neil Anderson, Meg Cappel, Michael Hastings, Adriane Johnson, Patrick Joyce, and Sue Rezin served as Senate sponsors. House Majority Leaders Natalie Manley and Representatives Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, Marcus Evans, Jr., Stephanie Kifowit, Dave Severin, David Welter, and Keith Wheeler sponsored the legislation in the House.
In October, both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly passed the legislation unanimously, teeing it up for Governor Pritzker’s signature. The legislation was supported by communities throughout the southwest suburbs, as well as Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, Will County Governmental League, Metro West Council of Government, Illinois Municipal League, Will and Grundy County Building Trades, Chicago and Cook County Building Trades, AFL-CIO, and the City of Chicago.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to learn more about Joliet’s Alternative Water Source Program at www.RethinkWaterJoliet.org, or by following the initiative through Facebook and Twitter. Visitors to the website can also sign-up to receive e-mail updates for the latest news on the Program.
James V. Capparelli
City Manager
The City of Joliet is the third largest city in the state of Illinois and home to over 150,000 residents. Joliet sits 35 miles southwest of Chicago and is easily accessible by auto, train and bus; making it the perfect place to live, work and play. Joliet is constantly striving to promote growth and diversity. For more information on Joliet visit www.joliet.gov or call 815-724-4000. The City of Joliet’s Media Releases are always available on our website.
