Certain Southwestern suburbs are preparing to pay more for their water.
The city of Chicago recently raised rates for water supplied to Oak Lawn, which pumps water to suburban customers. Those customers now must pay more to finance a $185 million overhaul of Oak Lawn's water distribution system, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Oak Lawn officials told the Tribune the overhaul is necessary to accommodate the area's growing population. They say increases should be minimal as the project's cost is spread out over 30 to 40 years.
The hike will affect customers in Oak Lawn, Chicago Ridge, Palos Park, Palos Hills, Oak Forest, Olympia Fields, Country Club Hills, Matteson, Orland Hills, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Mokena and New Lenox.
One resident told the Tribune her bill was hiked by about $30 to $180 since the start of the year.
