As part of the City of Morrison’s efforts to maintain and improve its water infrastructure, the City Council is considering a water rate plan for the next four years. That plan calls for an increase of 3.7% on Monday, May 15, 2023; 3.6% on May 15, 2024; 3.5% on May 15, 2025; 2.10% on May 15, 2026. This proposed rate plan is a result of a financial analysis conducted, which evaluates operating expenses, identifies future infrastructure needs, and assesses historical data on revenue, expense, and inflation trends.
The last water usage rate change, which was a 4.5% decrease, was in 2014.
The last water service charge (flat fee) change, was a 5.5% increase in 2017.
Since at least 2013, the City of Morrison has been very active with improvements. Here is a quick list of those improvements:
2013-14 new well, east end water main loop, and water tower rehabilitation $2.8 million
2021-22 new water main during Main Street reconstruction $1.2 million
2022-23 water meter replacement program and west end water main loop, estimated completion cost of $1 million.
Future projects include various water mains and loops throughout the community; water main replacement during the IL RT 78 South reconstruction; water tower improvements; hydrant replacement. These current and future projects are part of a larger, five-year, infrastructure plan being completed in phases.
What does this increase look like? Based on the average residential user of 3740 gallons per month, the increase per month would be $1.39. Sewer rates remain unchanged.
The City of Morrison has been discussing and carefully considering this proposed water rate plan since October of 2022. We have been, and continue to be, very mindful of the current cost of water, sewer, and refuse collection. As with any resident or other business, costs are increasing for everyone, to include the City of Morrison. Every effort is being made to ensure that the City of Morrison can continue to offer utility services effectively and responsibly.
The City Council meets every second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Community Room, 307 S. Madison Street, Morrison. The next City Council meeting is Monday, April 10, 2023.
For more information, please contact City Hall during regular hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., by calling 815-772-7657 or by contacting your Alderperson. Additional information regarding this water rate plan can be found on the City’s website under the tab for “Water & Waste Water Information” or at this link: https://www.morrisonil.org/upcoming-projects.