The Plainfield Village Board on Jan 30 approved a multi-year water and sewer rate ordinance that will help offset annual water rate increases to residents passed on by the municipality’s wholesale water provider, Illinois American Water to fund capital improvements.
Village water and sewer rates, in addition to the monthly capital improvement charge, have remained the same since February 1, 2021, officials said.
However, they insist Plainfield’s costs for supplying water and wastewater treatment have consistently increased during this time. The initial rate increase will be reflected on the March 31 bill.
Effective now, usage will be charged at the following rates. Water will be $8.06/100 cubic feet of water with a base charge 100 cubic feet. Sewer is $4.16/100 cubic feet of water with a base charge 300 cubic feet.
The capital charge, which funds ongoing maintenance of water and sewer infrastructure, will increase to $7.00 per month from the current $6.50.
Village officials said this means residents with average water usage of 1,000 cubic feet per month will see an increase of approximately $5 per month. Residents that receive a minimum water/wastewater bill will see an increase of approximately $1 per month.
Future rate adjustments will be effective on September 1 of each year, according to officials. Water rate increases will be limited to the increase from Illinois American Water. If any future annual increase from Illinois American Water is greater than 5%, then Village Board approval will be required to implement that annual rate, officials add.
Resident Jane McMckelmore worries the water bill will get out of control in the summer.
“I just paid $115 bill and I cannot afford anymore,” she said. “I just won’t water the lawn as I did before. I just cannot afford it.
“I know the village claims it only goes up a little, but we are a family of five and I am doing laundry every other day, and people are taking showers every day. This is a huge dent to our budget.”
Seniors who qualify for the County “Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Exemption” on their property tax bill can apply for a 10% discount on the monthly water, sewer, and capital charges. To apply, provide Utility Billing with a copy of a tax bill, which lists the exemption, via mail, e-mail, or in person at Village Hall, 24401 W. Lockport St.
Anyone with questions regarding their utility bill can contact the Village of Plainfield at (815) 439-4250 or via e-mail at
