Public forum discussing Illinois American Water rate increase tonight in Champaign

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A state body is holding a public forum Tuesday night to discuss the benefits and downsides of a rate increase for water bills for many Champaign-area residents.

The largest water utility company in the state, Illinois American Water, filed earlier this year a $152 million request to increase utility rates. Officials with the company estimate customers will see a $24 increase in residential monthly water service bills if approved.

The Illinois Commerce Commission is holding a forum to debate the rate increase. The forum will be held Tuesday from 7-9 p.m., in the Champaign Public Library’s Robeson Pavilion Room AB.

At the hearing, representatives from Illinois American Water will present their case for the rate hike before written and verbal comments are heard from customers. Additionally, ICC staff will be available to answer customers’ questions.

The date was previously announced in June.

At a similar forum in northern Illinois Monday night, utility watchdog group Citizen’s Utility Board said more than 300 people were in the audience.

Anyone who can’t attend the meeting can comment on Illinois American Water’s proposal on the ICC’s website or by calling an ICC Consumer Services Division Counselor Mon-Fri from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-524-0795.

The rate change will not be decided until later in the year, and would not take affect until early 2025.

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