ROCHELLE — The City of Rochelle held a public hearing Monday night to receive comments on proposed water system projects that include construction of Well 13 and a treatment plant, replacement of lead service lines, and water main replacement along Route 251. City officials estimate the three projects will cost about $10.7 million, but the city plans to seek loans up to and not to exceed $20 million.
Adam Lanning, Water and Water Reclamation Superintendent, noted that the timing is critical to lock in low rates: “These loan conditions are not going to be around forever. So we’re trying to take full advantage of the time.”
The city hopes to maximize several IEPA funding opportunities, including 100% principal forgiveness for lead service line replacements and a 30% reduction on the remaining projects, potentially cutting the total $10.76 million cost by approximately $6 million.
Residents could see a $5.00 increase in their average monthly water bill, rising from $33.72 to $38.72 by 2029 to support the infrastructure debt.
