2026 Water and Sewer Rate Update for All Customers

Beginning January 1, 2026, West Chicago’s water and sewer rates will increase as part of a previously planned multi-year schedule. A typical household may see an increase of about $13 per bi-monthly bill. These adjustments apply to all customers, including households, businesses, and industrial users. The increases are necessary to maintain safe, reliable service and to fund critical improvements to aging water and wastewater infrastructure across the community.

What Is Changing on January 1, 2026

Under Ordinance 23-O-0025, the following rates apply to bills issued on or after January 1:

Customers with higher water demand, such as restaurants, food processors, manufacturers, salons, and multi-tenant buildings, may see proportionally larger changes depending on usage.

These increases follow many years with minimal adjustments; water rates did not increase between 2006 and 2022, and the non-residential pretreatment charge was unchanged for more than 20 years.

Impact on a Typical Residential Bill

A household using about 15,000 gallons per bi-monthly billing cycle can expect their combined water and sewer bill to increase from about $310 to $323 in 2026 – roughly $13 per bi-monthly bill, or about $6.50 per month. Utility bills may fluctuate based on actual usage.

How Water and Sewer Services Are Funded

West Chicago’s water and wastewater utilities are enterprise funds, meaning they are separate from the City’s General Fund and should be fully supported by users. Property taxes and general revenues do not fund water or sewer operations, such as treating drinking water, maintaining the water distribution system, treating wastewater, and completing necessary upgrades.  Rates must be set at levels that allow both funds to cover daily operations, long-term maintenance, regulatory compliance, and major capital improvements.

How Wastewater Treatment Is Structured

Unlike communities where residents pay sanitary districts on their property tax bill, wastewater treatment for West Chicago is provided through the West Chicago/Winfield Wastewater Authority, a joint operation between the City of West Chicago and the Village of Winfield. Each community pays its share of operating expenses and capital improvements based on usage.

West Chicago customers’ sewer charges support both the City’s local sewer collection system and the City’s portion of the Authority’s treatment costs. Because treatment facilities, equipment, and pipelines must be maintained, upgraded, and replaced over time, the sewer fund must generate sufficient revenue through user rates.

Why These Increases Are Necessary

• Aging infrastructure requires significant replacement

More than one third of the community’s water pipes are over 50 years old, and many are undersized. These conditions contribute to watermain breaks and service interruptions, requiring sustained investment through user charges.

• Storage capacity is below recommended levels

The City currently has about 1.75 million gallons of water storage, well below the 4.5 million gallons recommended for system reliability and fire protection. Increasing capacity is a major capital cost that depends on utility revenue.

• Revenues are not keeping up with operational and capital needs

From 2026 to 2030, projected revenues fall short of expected operating and capital costs. Rate adjustments are necessary to maintain stable daily operations, comply with regulatory requirements, and avoid deferred maintenance that increases long-term costs.

• Major capital improvements are planned over the next five years

Upcoming projects include lead service line replacements, watermain improvements, well house rehabilitation, sewer lining, lift station upgrades, and the construction of a new elevated water tower. These investments extend system life, improve reliability, and ensure safety for residents and businesses.

• West Chicago maintains and operates its own treatment facilities

Unlike many nearby communities that purchase Lake Michigan water or rely on separate sanitary districts, West Chicago operates both its own water and wastewater treatment plants. All operating and capital costs for these facilities must be funded through local utility rates.

Ways to Reduce Water Use

Customers who wish to manage their water bills may benefit from simple conservation practices such as repairing leaks, installing high-efficiency fixtures, reducing outdoor watering, and upgrading appliances or equipment.

Businesses may also find savings through equipment maintenance, industrial process improvements, employee training on efficient water use, or by monitoring peak-demand periods.

The Public Works Department can assist customers who wish to better understand their usage history or ask questions about conservation strategies by scheduling an appointment at 630-293-2255.

Looking Ahead

The City is committed to long-term planning that ensures reliable utility service, safeguards public health, and supports community and economic growth. A comprehensive water and sewer rate study is planned for 2026 to reassess future needs and maintain financial stability.

Questions?

Utility customers with questions about the rate schedule can contact the Finance Department at 630-293-2200.  Questions about upcoming improvements can be directed to the City’s Public Works Department at 630-293-2255 or visit the City’s website for additional details.

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