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November 18, 2011
I am strongly against the rate hike for IAWC. ICC should vote no!
09-0319 · Anthony Ward
July 13, 2010
We live in Meadow Creek Subdivision. Meadow Creek Subdivision is just outside Morris Water District. Morris Water District bills are around $30 per month and that includes garbage service. Bills here have been around $69 and that does not include garbage service. Last month I received a bill from IL American Water for $93! I called to question this bill and I was told that it was due to a recent rate increase approved by the ICC. IL American Water has a monopoly. We live less than 1 mile away from Morris Water District but cannot get our water from them. The neighborhood news letter has many articles regarding this ridiculous 30% rate increase. Many people are complaining. The newsletter suggested we call the ICC and lodge a complaint.
09-0319 · Jim Wolfe
May 27, 2010
I protest the high rate increase of water and believe everyone at the ICC was asleep at the switch. I highly protest the 18%increase and also the sewer and fire district rate raised also. believes this is an outrage.
09-0319 · Howard Smyth
April 13, 2010
They made a great big profit last year they have not improved the water they don's deserve a rate hike.
09-0319 · Josephine Walker
April 12, 2010
we strongly object to the rate increase
09-0319 · Francis Fritz
April 13, 2010
This rate hike is unfair and unnecessary. We can't give any more...
09-0319 · Norma Thompson
April 7, 2010
This is an insult to all Illinois-American Water Company
customers. We have had to deal with high rates, safety and health issues such as non functioning fire hydrants, sewage backups, and storm drain backs up's; all because Illinois-American Water won't properly maintain their infrastructure. This is not due to lack of revenue, it is due to the same problem that caused our country's current economic situation, greed plain and simple. I belive in paying my fair share, but this rate increase is gouging us for one of the necessities of life so they can line their pockets.
09-0319 · Darin Mattner
April 7, 2010
I am completly opposed to granting IAW a rate increase I live at an address where we are paying higher rates then any other IAW community in my general geographic area. Although I am aware that IAW is undoubtidly being impacted by the economy so is every pirvate citizen. I feel that IAW must completly justify to the ICC the costs and why they must raise rates at all. Thank you
Sincerely
Darren M Maiman
09-0319 · Darren M Maiman
April 7, 2010
The Jersey County Rural Water Company, the Fosterburg Water District, and Bond Madison Water spent over $12,000 each in attorney's fees on the 2007 request for an increase in water rates by Illinois American.

We here at Jersey County Rural Water are a Not-For-Profit Corporation and these expenditures are not without consequences. We cover just over four counties and much of those areas are serving low-income homes. As with every other company, we are greatly affected by the current increase in expenses across the board and are trying desperately to absorb as much as we can without passing on increases to our valued customers. With an increase of the magnitude being requested by Illinois American at this point, we will simply have no choice than to raise our rates. People in our area are struggling on a smaller level just as we are at a company level.

We take great pride in managing our company in a fiscally responsible manner. We have been in operation since 1973 and have greatly increased our area of coverage and the services we offer to make potable water accessible to as many people as possible. To begin to calculate the consequence of such an extreme rate increase is very difficult to imagine. Additionally, not only is Illinois American Water requesting the rate increase, for those companies fighting to keep the increase at a more reasonable level, they are requesting that they be reimbursed for their attorney fees. Given the fact that we have already absorbed great expense in the 2007 rate hike in the effort to protect our customers, we feel that any continued expenses are beyond what is reasonable.

We are requesting that all of these factors be taken into consideration when you decide the outcome of this rate increase request.

From Greg Bates, Company Manager, Jersey County Rural Water Company, Incorporated
09-0319 · Greg Bates
March 30, 2010
To whom it may concern:

I am a new homeowner in the Village of Homer Glen, IL. I have been looking forward to owning a home for sometime and have found it to be a proud moment in my life.

But the one thing I could not have foreseen is the exorbitant amount both me and the customers that are served by Illinois-American Water Company, are paying for a necessity in life. The amounts being paid, for basic water and sewer treatment, are nothing more than a noose that is being tightened around these budding communities. Rather than LOWER rates and attract MORE familes and businesses to settle in these areas, they are being scared off by the rising costs of the water service this company provides, all in the name of profit.

How can they justify these "maintenance costs" when families are being forced to choose between paying the water bill or grocieries? Or medicine? Or gasoline to get to work?

I will say this, despite being a quiet, friendly neighborhood, I am already considering moving far away from this area due to the outrageous prices this company thinks it can charge its customers. I'm sure many of my neighbors feel the exact same way.

In closing, I'm reminded of the old saying, "You catch more flies with honey, than with vinegar." I can only hope something is done soon to help these communities and familes.
09-0319 · Daniel Bandola
March 29, 2010
I share the concern that rest of Peoria has about Ameren Increases proposed for 2010.

Our family personally had trouble meeting utility costs this year, and many, many more families were unable to meet them at all, with a number of individuals suffering through the cold winter.

Until the time that citizens can find work and afford to pay any increases, in the economy of Peoria and the nation, this is not the time for an increase.

Thank you.

Terese
09-0319 · Terese Speck
March 29, 2010
Your company has made great profits the past several years and part of those profits should be plowed back into infrastructure, etc. The cost of updating your equipment is your responsibility; your customers already pay a fair price for what we get. We sometimes are out of town for most of a monthly billing cycle and our bill remains pretty much the same whether we are here using water or out of town and not using any water. So I think you are profiting just by having us as customers.
09-0319 · Jean Skelly
March 29, 2010
People that has low income like under 600.00 they should not have a problem wiht the water company. I mean they will have a problem because of the other bills they have to pay. a rate increase will hurt poor people more than rich. me myself I use as little water as I can and its 55.00 if they want an increase go to the big shots that make the money in the company and get it from them don't hurt the poor people. we are having enough problems with tax, health care and everything else. we don't need a water problem. if they wan an increase wait for the economy to get better. a 30% increase is stupid.
09-0319 · William Gover
March 29, 2010
I THINK A 30% RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER IS TOO MUCH. THEY RECENTLY HAD AN INCREASE. WE CUSTOMERS DON'T GET A 30% INCREASE IN OUR BUDGET.
09-0319 · DON & VERA LANDIS
March 29, 2010
Please reject IAWC's request for rate increase. In a time when we as consumers are faced with increasing umemployment, downsizing, wage reductions, other unregulated increases from bank fees and other companies pushing costs to the consumer, we simply can not accept an increase of this size that will not substantially increase the quality of water service.

My wife recently lost her job in the education sector due to state budget difficulties and I am now looking at a possible wage reduction of $4/hr or complete loss of job. Every increase in fees and payments to utilities, taxes, etc. only pushes us and others closer to the brink of bankruptcy

This increase, based on information I have reviewed, does little to improve infrastructure while most being spent on labor and executive compensation. If I have to take a wage decrease and my wife looses her job, perhaps IAWC needs to more cost cutting in the same areas before they try to get more blood out of the turnip
09-0319 · Kevin Zumbaum
March 29, 2010
I am writing in regard to P-10-0194, Aqua-Illinois proposed rate increase. I believe that Aqua should not be able to request an increase in rates, particularly in Kanakakee County, where we have seen significant increases in our water and sewer bills ever since Aqua took control of water service in our town. This increase will be tough enough for those of us with a regular income to swallow, but will have a negative impact on many of those residents with fixed incomes or those that are out of work (16% unemployment in our county). I implore you to take all aspects of the situation into consideration before making a decision, one way or the other, on this rate increase request.
09-0319 · Kenneth Baldauff
March 26, 2010
I have read your Proposed Order in this matter and believe the rate making formulas need to be revised to reflect current economic conditions. On Appendix D, Page 1, IL American Water details what the impact of the granted new rates will make in their Chicago Metro wastewater collection and treatment district. Annual Revenues will increase $2 mill, with NET POST TAX INCOME RISING FROM $2.5 MILL (22.3% of revenues) TO $3.7 MILL (28.7% of revenues) a 48% increase!

All of this increase will be borne by the Homer Glen and Homer Township residents, an average $24 (52.3%) per month increase (8000 gpm) since the rates were A FLAT $45.52 PER HOME IN AUGUST 2008, just 19 months ago! I'm sure you have substantiated their representations; but when was the last time you looked at what a fair return is for their business? Where in this economy can you invest money that returns a GUARANTEED $8.05 % RETURN EVERY YEAR, AFTER YOU PAY YOUR INCOME TAXES?
09-0319 · Lawrence Conrath Sr.
March 26, 2010
Being disabled limits my ability to earn income that would support a 30% average rate increase in my water rate for a private investor-owned utility.

Why not have the investors/shareholders finance this rate increase from profits/dividends earned? A request demanding in-house parties to finance the rate increase would force them to be less wasteful and more attentive-to-detail of operating costs, limiting the amount of any additional moneys needed to run the utility.

Sincerely,
Jimmy Lipscomb
09-0319 · Jimmy Lipscomb
March 23, 2010
This is outrage!!!!!!!!!!!! I have 4 children (family of 6) and currently we pay monthly bill of approximatly $130.
30 % increse would go to $170.00
Current rates are outrages. Illinois american water company is currently stilling money from us, but greed has no limits . They want more??????????
Any increse in fees would end in legal action in the court of law.
Are we living on Sahara Desert ??????

I do not know how much "donations" IAWC "donated" to ICC members.
FBI will find out sooner or latter.
Someone will go to jail over this.!!!!!!!!!
We will fight any increse in any possible legal way!!!!!!!
This economy ? Water increse?
We are alredy paying twice the amont we have paid in 2000.
09-0319 · Jack M. Pajak
March 23, 2010
I am writing regarding the current rate proposal by Aqua IL. I know we have to use water and sewer in our daily lives but I don't see any reason for another rate increase. They just had one a couple of years ago. And if the summer is like the last couple of summers they will want us decrease our water usage due to the lack of rain. I oppose them getting another rate increase.
09-0319 · TAMMY BEAUDOIN
March 18, 2010
I'm writing to you regarding IL-American Water and any pending legislation that will provide consumers relief to their unscrupulous plundering. My monthly water bill is never less than $160. Although my seven member family living in Bolingbrook, IL is admittedly large, my friends and coworkers from other communities gasp when I tell them about this amount I pay for water service. I don't understand how this rate could have been approved for a regulated, monopoly utility, and I'm appalled that IL-American Water is audacious enough to request raising rates even further. I hope in your public duties you will advocate your constituents and drive forward any legislation that will provide Bolingbrook and other community victims of IL-American Water more affordable water service.
09-0319 · Dan White
March 18, 2010
I am writing to object to the rate-hike request of Illinois American Water Company. Coming on the heels of the last hike, which seemed to be very high, the company is carrying out its avowed program of seeking rate increases every year.

Illinois American Water is the financial version of Chicken Little. The net loss figures it trumpets arise entirely from "goodwill impairments" -- not operations. Apropos of finance, does ICC know how much we all have paid for American Water first to sell itself to the German RWE utility and then to buy itself back?

The company's year-end 2009 financial announcement shows the true state of affairs: net income of "$1.25 per basic and diluted common share, compared with $176.1 million, or $1.10 per basic and diluted share in 2008, a 13.6 percent year-over-year increase in earnings per share." Not bad for a year when the rest of the economy was suffering! No wonder the company president wrote, "We are pleased with the solid results of the quarter and year."

The company cites the need to raise capital as another reason for its rate hike request. We expect ILAM Water, as an investor-owned utility, to be making the needed investments in facilities and THEN earning a return on its investment. If ratepayers are called upon to provide the investment funds, then there is no need to have an outside company -- the community itself should own the facilities that it is paying for.

The rate hike request of IL-AM Water Company is not justified, and the ICC should reject the application.
09-0319 · Harold G. Diamond
March 16, 2010
We have been waiting for 12 years to get water, I would not like to have a rate increase at the same time we get water!
09-0319 · Randy Haukap
March 16, 2010
No increase in water and sewer rates...Please.
09-0319 · AYANNA IDOM
March 16, 2010
Plain and simply the rate hikes that we have been subjected to by American Water (Illinois American) in Homer Glen are outrageous. You people are the only recourse we have at this time to slow the rate hikes down because I don't believe you have ever flat out rejected their whole request, have you? It is simply unbelievable that they are attempting to raise the rates as much as they are in these economic times. I AM ASKING YOU TO DENY THEIR WHOLE REQUEST. I already read that they are planning on applying for another rate increase in the next two years anyways (as usual) and their company doesn't need to expand anytime soon because housing and commercial construction rates are way down. Please put the people before this companies profits. THIS HAS GOT TO STOP!!!
09-0319 · Robert Wirth
March 11, 2010
Now is NOT the time to raise rates. Illinois' unemploymnet rate and its debt is among the highest in the country!
09-0319 · Maureen T Gregg
March 9, 2010
I am not sure that given the current economic climate that we can endure hike in our water service rates. Rates have continued to escalate over the last decade and cost of living adjustments have not kept pace.
09-0319 · Michael Azzarello
March 9, 2010
Please no rate increase!! It is already rediculously high and in this difficult economic time, we are not getting pay raises, but taking pay cuts to keep our jobs. Please make them work with us, not put another nail in our financial coffin!!
09-0319 · Vicki Mormino
March 9, 2010
Please no more greed--no more rate increases--no more. Take a look at our economy and the people that have had to stop spending to get by---what are you thinking?
09-0319 · shirley triplett
March 9, 2010
My husband is unemployed and I have only a part-time job. We live very frugally. Already Ameren charges as much to deliver gas/electricity as we use. How much more profit off of us do they need to make? Didn't they just get a big rate hike not long ago? I haven't had a raise in the last five years. Where am I supposed to get the money to pay them? Cut out groceries?
09-0319 · Virginia Baker
March 9, 2010
Do you not realize that hundreds are out of work and doing their best just to put food on the table and a roof over their families head. These rate increases are making it impossible for them to just exist. Please try to be humane and help people. This is Gods wish. Hepl one another. Think about it. Stop being money grabers at the cost of the very poor and sick.
09-0319 · Grace Marquardt
March 9, 2010
Vote no to any Illinois American Water Company Rate Increase. When do they reach the point where they have made enough money in PROFIT? This is no different than the electric company wanting an increase in PROFIT. These are hard times with the recession, and we are not getting any raises. I am on disability; I can barely make my utility payments now. So if they get a raise to make even more money, and I will have to basically not use any water because in this economy, I can’t afford anything as it is.

Please say, NO to their rate hike.
09-0319 · Gary Hawkins
March 9, 2010
I request that you stop the proposed general increase in water and sewer rates.
It would be a hardship on my family. The ecomony is in such a mess, why do you want to increase at this time. Bad idea.
09-0319 · Henry L. McKinley
March 9, 2010
I'm saying NO to more water and sewer increases. The way the economy and financial hurts we don't need any more increases.
09-0319 · Teresa Langan
March 9, 2010
I request that the state does not approve the rate hike for water by the Illinois-American Water of $56 million. We are already being taxed to death and utilities continue to rise when many people are unemployed and can barely pay the monthly utilities bills. This rate hike is just beyond what the general public can pay.

Judith Idorwatt
09-0319 · Judith Idorwatt
March 9, 2010
It is not fair for a monopoly to request excessive increases when they are the same company which fought a buy out to manage the costs.
09-0319 · William Gullickson
March 9, 2010
I moved to Mchenry from Elmhurst, IL we used to have city and sewer water. I would not mind an increase if I could actually use or drink the community well water I currently pay for. I have recently changed all my pipes in the house and added a water softner as well as puri system. The water is not good, you can not drink it with the rusty taste. I think this is a riduclous increase of 3 times the normal amount to pay for WELL WATER. If it was City Water, that would be a different story.

I understand they have not had an increase in years, but what they are asking for is unfair and to pay this on Well Water is a joke.

I oppose this increase.
09-0319 · Sheila Pickert
March 8, 2010
I am opposed to a rate increase for water & sewer. Our rent went up last year due to a rate increase. We were told if another rate increase is approved our rent will go up again. The water & power companies know you have to have the service they provide so they do not care about the people only the money. The love of money is the root of all evil. Lets STOP these people!!
09-0319 · Lee Mendenhall
March 2, 2010
Illinois -American Water is seeking an exorbitant return on equity—or profit rate for shareholders. And angry that the company should not be able to recover certain bonuses and other examples of “incentive compensation” through customer rates.
And Illinois - American Water does not desire a general increase in water and sewer
rates..
09-0319 · Raymond Schermer
March 2, 2010
Customer receives CUB newsletter. Customer called to voice complaint oppose the proposed rate increase. Feels it is outrageous that they would request such a high increase. Customer feels that the ICC approves any increase that comes along, and doesn't care about the average consumer.
09-0319 · Karen C.
March 2, 2010
133

We have the highest rates, based on the meeting I went to, around here. the next closest rate is about 1/2 as much as we pay and now they want to go up again. for a family of four not using excessive water is about 200.00 a month.
09-0319 · April Mroz
February 26, 2010
Do not raise water rates. Water rates in Bolingbrook have increased nearly 25% since 2003. Illinois-American Water does not need more of my money! Cut costs, do not raise rates!
09-0319 · Eric Krolik
February 26, 2010
Mrs. Cleary objects to the requested rate hike. She says, the water quality is very poor. Cust. says, every month she buys three boxes of salt and other supply for the water softner. She wants the ICC to vote down the request for a rate hike.
09-0319 · Arlene Cleary
February 23, 2010
Please, no increase in rates for this company. They seem to be like any private utility, gouge the customer. They use free water that depletes the aquifer and act like it is their water to sell back to us. I do appreciate having clean water but this company already makes enough money and does not plan for the future. They have used a great deal of money to do mailings to all of us customers telling us how wonderful they are and why they need an increase in rates. I have to wonder why they do not just save the money and do their work. So, please no increase in rates.
09-0319 · Nancy Creason
February 23, 2010
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, DO NOT ALLOW ILLINOIS-AMERICAN WATER INCREASE THEIR WATER RATES.

With all the the friends and family I have, I have been paying over twice as much as all of them who live in the city, and other suburbs, for the last twenty five years.!!!! We are only two seniors in this house, who only shower once or twice a week to save money on water expense... What's next, no bathing at all, no dishwashing, no brushing teeth, etc. and just become total slobs or kill oursleves with infections,because of the cost of our water..

My bill is $70. to $80. a month now, without summer lawn and plant watering.. This summer I probably will not be able to afford to water at all,and ruin my bushes and lawn and my home value.

I cannot imagine what it costs families with children for their water!!!. I do not know how they can afford to keep their homes up in these terrible times, or anytime, for that matter, judging by my water bill, I hate to think of what their bill is !!!!!!.

Illinois American has always been way out of line with what other companies charges for water .
WHY WHY WHY???

Please help us Seniors to servive,and the rest of my neighbors also.

THANK YOU THANK YOU, SO VERY MUCH.

Sincerely

Lorraine C Beyer
09-0319 · LORRAINE C BEYER
February 16, 2010
I oppose the rate hike, and in fact, feel that Ameren may owe us a rate decrease instead. It seems that, like many others in positions of authority, Ameren executives have developed a sense of entitlement that convinces them they should be insluated from the impacts the economy is having on everyone else. This is America, and we don't have nobles, kings, or warlords. We are each equally valuable, and none should have the right to take from everyone else, just because they have the funds to lobby and court lawmakers. I hope Illinois' leaders can do the right thing and avoid bowing to pressure from Ameren or any other group that seeks to use the power of the State of Illinois to concentratrate wealth for their own interests.
09-0319 · Jerry Sims
February 16, 2010
To understand the customers of IAWC plight better one only needs to walk in the moccasins of another man to paraphrase a proverb from our Native American brothers. I ask you, the Commisioners' of the ICC to compare my January 2010 bill with yours. For 5,000 gallons of water my bill was for $73.25. With our already approved January 1, 2010 rate increase it breaks down as follows: 1) Basic Service [regardless of amount consumed] $9.75/mo. 2) Use and Supply charge [actual cost of water] $8.50 per 1,000 gallons 3) Fire Protection Charge $4.51 [annual hydrant flush and painting] 4) Waste water collection charge [NOT treatment and regardless of amount] $17.57. My rates are already too high, what has this company been doing with all their previously approved and imposed, what seems like, annual rate increases? Are they operating the company in an efficient manner? I assure you I have already spent several hundreds of dollars on low flow toilets, shower heads, appliances, and even piping reconfigurations to reduce my consumption to a minimum, my household is hyro-efficient. I can't reduce my baseline water comsumption below 3 gallon/mo. ($56.55 for that month FYI) for a family of 4. Please don't let my rates be more than your's.
09-0319 · Jeff Pesavento
February 2, 2010
Vote no to any Illinois American Water Company Rate Increase . If they can spend a million dollars for remodeling and $580,000 to renovate existing office and a kitchen theny do not need a rate increase. The job for them is to deliver water not have a kitchen. I do not believe my water bill should cover someone's racquetball courts either. Let them go home and play and shower on their own dime, not mine. If you vote a rate increase for this kind of stuff you either are on the take or playing racquetball with them. Which is it?

Tom Staub
09-0319 · Tom Staub
February 1, 2010
This is insane, I am sick of being robbed. Our rates are high enough & in these hard times all the rich are trying to do is get richer by basiclly stealing from the people below. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. There is NO NEED for this rate increase. Someone needs to protect the people who really do keep things moving. Do NOT allow this increase to happen which just can't afford it!

What happens when we just can't pay & I mean people in a whole or what if we all just stood up for what is right and NOT pay?
09-0319 · Alicanne Trotter
February 1, 2010
The cost of water in Homer Glen is way too high. When you look at other cities water rates there is NO REASON for Homer Glen to be so high. The water company is taking advantage of a younger village and should not be able to do that. The rate should be the same for ALL villages!!! Lower the water rate!
09-0319 · Jen Kubiszyn
February 1, 2010
How long will these water rates continue to increase? With the second largest water bill in the state of Illinois, why is this allowed to continue in Homer Glen. Paying over $120 per month for two people is insane. I would like to know what the Commission plans to do. This has been going on since 2001 with no relief. Many of the people in Homer Glen are starting to retire and can't afford these bills. Please take some action.

JPrincipe
09-0319 · JPrincipe
February 1, 2010
Our water rates continue to increase with no added benefits to us. The utility was granted a rate increase only recently and they are coming again for more. They need to cut cost and keep expeditures down. Our water rates are high when I compare them with my son who lives in AZ. These are tough times for everyone. IL American (not real American any longer) should not be granted the latest request. If there is anyone listening or cares at ICC this is the time.
09-0319 · Charles Abbas
January 15, 2010
Illinois American Water wants to enter another rate hike!!! What world are they living in. Illinois is Billions of dollar in debt, unemployment is high, foreclosures of homes are on the rise. There are not that many people employed in this state as years past. There are not that many employed in my area. To impose rates that at this time consumers are already having difficulty paying their water/sewer bills is totally unwarranted at a time that Illinois American is profiting and not loosing monies at this time. Rates for water bills have put some people such as myself in a situation where I wish I moved to a place where water was included in my rent and I did not have to pay it. To be paying such when my income has remained the same for the past 2 year is truly not fair. Due to the economy, no increase in pay has been issued for two years in order to avoid lay offs, yet everything around me continues to go up while I remain with the same amount in earnings for the past 2 years and was recently informed for the 3rd year there will not be any raises or increases in pay.
09-0319 · Barbara Statun
January 15, 2010
I seriously feel an increase in water and sewer rates at this time is unfair. It's hard enough just to survive but with everday basic needs steady going up how are we to make it? If you can eat and keep a roof over your head you are good but to have to try and handle these increases in gas, water and other living expenses doesn't give you any breathing room. On top of that the increase notice came with the increase, not prior to, so you couldn't adjust or complain. Our Jan bill came it was higher and it told us at that point the rates had increased.

Dorothia Oliver
09-0319 · dorothia oliver
January 13, 2010
How does another rate increase get by? How do you justify that? Just becasue King Richard says so. I have to pay for it. The rate is already to high and now they want it to go up again and there is a sewer charge that is also high. I can't understand how they can get away with murder we are being held hostage by this company. The do all of this in such a sneaky way you don't notice it at first but I broke it down.
09-0319 · Ted Gajda
January 15, 2010
If the state is going to continue to allow this company to milk us of every dime we make then they need to make our employers start paying more!! How can we continue to receive hikes when we cannot afford to pay the total amount plus buy food!! for heavens sake stop this from happening.
09-0319 · Rita Lovell
January 15, 2010
I can not understand how a company making so much profit can get another rate increase. Being on disability it is hard enough to pay my utility bills as it is. Between rent, electric, gas, and water, I barely have enough to buy food. Not to mention medical bills. What has happened to those looking out for the consumers? Are the big lobbyist so powerful that the little guy is going under more and more every day? Put a stop to this nonsense please!
Thanks
09-0319 · Dennis Rutter
January 4, 2010
I oppose the rate increase for this water company
09-0319 · Colleen Ridgeway
December 29, 2009
I oppose the Ameren Rate Hike request. Everytime we have had an increase, the "average" is usually triple for me! I don't have a big house - less then 1200 square feet, well insulated but it doesn't make any difference!
09-0319 · Joan Lund
December 23, 2009
Illinois American Water Co. MUST look within its own company for cost cuts just like all other businesses are doing right now. We, the customer, cannot keep subsidizing their glut for more cash.
09-0319 · Stephen A. Link
December 21, 2009
Please do NOT allow IAW to raise our water and sewer rates. They are much too high already. We need some relief from this company, not more of a burden placed on us by them.
09-0319 · Ron and Kathy Carlson
December 17, 2009
I'M A SENIOR CITIZEN. IT'S ALREADY DIFFICULT TO KEEP UP WITH THE BILLS. I AM OPPOSED TO A RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER.
09-0319 · LYNNE RICCA
December 17, 2009
I have lived in Orland Hills for almost 7 years. In that time, I have seen my water bill more than double. Each and every time IAW has come in for a rate increase, it has come with "assurances" that they wouldn't need another rate increase for "years". It seems that IAW has forgotten that the "s" makes year plural, and they have been trying (and succeeding) on raising the rates for direct bill customers almost yearly.

I am also under the understanding from IAW that these rate increases for direct pay customers help to cover the costs for infrastructure repairs and lost water in municipal rate areas. This is completely unfair to the direct pay customer. Why should we be forced to pay for infrastructure repairs in Orland Park, Oak Lawn, incorporated Tinley Park, etc., when we do not live in those areas. Why aren't those municipalities' rates being increased to cover their own infrastructure?

The direct pay customers already pay more than their fair share. You cannot allow IAW to keep coming back to the same trough each time. I am sick and tired of being strong armed by IAW. Let's face it. They have a full monoply on the water. There is absolutely no competition that I can go to for water to my home. Your agency has to stop this gross abuse of power. Why does IAW always seem to be able to strongarm their way into my wallet???

09-0319 · Mary Ellen Ricobene
December 14, 2009
I am outraged by the request by I.A.W. for ANY RATE INCREASES. I.A.W. is once again bullying it's customers for an outlandish shakedown to support their stockholders deep pockets. I.A.W. wants to bleed all the consumers for their own greed...they should be giving us a RATE DECREASE.
09-0319 · Kenneth W. Newton
December 14, 2009
I'm calling to oppose Illinois American Water's rate hike.
09-0319 · Gerard Adams
December 14, 2009
The rate increase requested is too high for wholesale water buyers such as Fosterburg Water District. The resulting rate increase will be much higher for customers Fosterburg Water than for nearby towns served by Illinois American. Our rates are already much higher than those in Alton.
09-0319 · Lawrence Oliver
December 14, 2009
Not only are we being overcharged but our water is contaminated. New info just released on this site

http://www.ewg.org/ THIS IS VERY INSULTING!
09-0319 · ted tsevis
December 14, 2009
We ask that you spend some time reading the records of what was said at the community meeting that was held in Homer Glen. It is your job to be impartial and weigh both sides. We don't believe that has happened in past decisions regarding our water rates. Our rates should be decreased, NOT increased. We are already paying unfair rates and fees.
Thank you,
Thomas and Sandra Petkewicz
residents of Homer Glen
09-0319 · Thomas and Sandra Petkewicz
December 14, 2009
Though our water rates are among the highest in the Chicagoland area, the sewer charges, fixed customer rates and alleged infrastructure expenditures are what most offend me. I have lived in the Quincy Park subdivision since December 1975. In 34 years, I have not seen any significant proactive replacements other than meters, which have been replaced two or three times. System components are replaced only when all else fails; band-aid repairs are the rule. Buffalo boxes are so few and far between, the company shut down a minimum of 56 households, until our condominium association was able to make a repair. This is what happens when the repair is our responsibility. When it is their responsibility, a leak can go on for up to two weeks, because the amount of water lost is not significant enough to mandate repair, according to IAW. Our sewer rates are all a flat rate and do not correlate to water usage, as some suburbs do. Our customer fixed rates are the same. We have no incentive to conserve, since we will pay $17.50 for sewer collection and fixed fees of more than $10 for water, whether we use one gallon or 10,000 gallons. Someone who is out of town can easily pay $50 in charges and taxes, though no usage occurred at all. Our fire protection charge is levied for each meter. My one household is charged $4.51. The condominium next door pays $4.51 for 350 households. All of these charges are monthly. I have compiled bills from throughout the northwest suburbs and find no one pays as much as we do. Our plight is sad and it is shameful that our government has not intervened on our behalf.
09-0319 · Darlene F. Ahlstedt
December 10, 2009
I am against a rate increase.
09-0319 · Walter Brunk
December 9, 2009
I am opposed to any rate increase and hope our elected officials support us in this matter.
09-0319 · Ted Tsevis
December 9, 2009
Homer Glen currently has one of the highest water rates in the entire state of Illinois. Illinois American Water is asking for a rate hike based upon their observations that our area will require extensive capital expenditures on their part. As a business person I have to ask myself did Illinois American Water do their due diligence when they purchased the water rights for Homer Glen and if there answer is yes then why are we as residents of Homer Glen suffering so badly. This company has a history of constantly seeking huge rate increases from the ICC. If there company has made bad management decisions and can constantly go to the ICC for more money then I believe they should no longer be in business and permit someone else to take over who can run a more efficient operation so that all of the residents do not have to suffer undo hardship. Water is a necessity Not a luxury.We are suffering enough with these high rates its time to say NO.

Thank You
09-0319 · William Ficaro
December 8, 2009
I am against any raise increase for IAW. I hope the icc will say no to an increase.
09-0319 · Ted Nietzke
December 8, 2009
I AM OPPOSED TO A RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER. THE COST OF WATER FOR ME IS ALREADY $100 OR MORE A MONTH. THEY SHOULD HAVE BEEN DOING IMPROVEMENTS TO INFRASTRUCTURE YEARS AGO. RAISING THE RATES IS NOT JUSTIFIED.
09-0319 · ARLENE CLEARY
December 8, 2009
I want to say I am opposed to any rate increase for this company
09-0319 · Peggy Tsevis
December 7, 2009
MY MOST RECENT BILL FROM ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER IS FOR $223.13. CHARGES INCLUDE $89.18 FOR WATER, $108.77 SEWAGE TREATMENT, $3.90 FOR STORM AND $21.28 ADDITIONAL SEWAGE TREATEMENT. WE ARE BILLED ON A QUARTERLY BASIS, WHICH CAUSES THE USAGE BILLED TO BE GREATER THAN 25,000 GALLONS. THIS CAUSES THE SEWAGE TREATMENT CHARGE ($108.77) TO BE HIGHER THAN IF WE WERE BILLED ON A MONTHLY BASIS. TINLEY PARK RESIDENTS SHOULD BE BILLED ON A MONTHLY BASIS. REGARDLESS, I AM OPPOSED TO A RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER.
09-0319 · SHARON SEDLACEK
December 8, 2009
Where does one start with so little space to say it all? Moving from the City of Chicago over 11 years ago, we got our first sticker shock to the water bill going from $125/semi-annually ($250/year) to $65/mo ($780/year) for an increase of $530/year!!! Move ahead 11 years to 2009 and our average water bill is $110/month ($1,320/year) for an increase of $790/year paid in 1998 and $1,070/year than we were paying in Chicago..for the SAME WATER I MIGHT ADD! We were a family of four (4) in 1998 as we are today. Over the years, my wife constantly yelled at the kids and me as well, to stop letting the "gold" down the drain while we were brushing our teeth to cleaning the dishes or taking long showers. We bought an energy efficient dishwasher years ago to help with the conservation of water used to wash dishes, bought and changed out all our toilets to lower water efficient models, put low-flow water shower heads on all showers, utilize the water collected in the de-humidifier to water the plants outside/inside, limit water of the grass during the summer & recently purchased a high-efficiency & water-efficient washer and dryer. One would think that we would see a drop in our water usage which would mean a lower bill. FAT CHANCE! In addition, my wife found an odd thing happening to our water bill for the month of April/May for the past few years. We typically go on vacation during that time every year for 2 full weeks. The only one home is my mother-in-law. It is still cool outside, so no need to water grass or garden. There is no spring cleaning going on during this time, so hence, my wife wonders why the bill is approximately $25 more than average when we are NOT HOME for 2 WEEKS! Wouldn't you think that if 3 out of 4 people living @ home were gone for 2 weeks that the bill would be $25 LESS & not MORE! Actually, I feel that we are being ripped off $50 & not just $25. We don't have any leaks, for if we did, they would show on the water bill every month. So when my wife called Illinois Water to complain, all they said was that it is based on what we used..HELLO...we were not home for 2 weeks, which means 24 LESS SHOWERS, 16 LESS LOADS OF LAUNDRY and 6 LESS LOADS OF DISHWASHING...do I need to go on?! I KNOW WITHOUT A SHADOW OF A DOUBT, WE ARE BEING RIPPPED OFF! Of course, there is nothing we can do about it because it is their word against ours since they have the equipment that shows how much we have used and we don't! This year we decided not to water our grass like we used to (which was very limited to begin with), and thankfully for more rain this year than last, we only water a few times a month. Guess what, water bill was the same as any other summer bill from the past years! Can you see where we, the consumers and population of Homer Glen, are tired of paying for the high prices of water & sewer and are getting angry over the pending increase! Neighbors are not watering there grass any more & letting it turn rancid yellow/weeds galore, because they CANNOT AFFORD such a luxurious commodity, especially on their lawn. Water is essential for survival and for cleaning and w/out it, disease will flourish & people will die! Is that what you want as well? I don't believe so for that would be taking part in something that is against human nature. Many resident in the past 2 years have lost their jobs and their homes to foreclosure due this economic downfall! I for one was one of the people to lose their jobs and shamefully collect unemployment since there are no jobs out there to be had when going up against millions of other people looking for the same jobs! I know you and the IAW are aware of the current crisis so why in the world would IAW build an additional plant off of Bell Road for the purposes of future development /expansion! HELLO!!! Do the words unemployment & foreclosure not go in the same sentence as DEVELOPMENT & EXPANSION! To add insult to injury, after the public meeting with ICC & IAW last month, , I received The Homer Glen, Lockport & Lemont issue of The Sun dated November 11-17, 2009 and the articles are all about people being affected by the economy..."Lockport man sees need for single-payer health system", "County begins painful process of layoffs", Homer Officials divided over land purchase (GREAT..another useless thing we have to pay for especially for something that we DID NOT ASK FOR NOR NEED! This will raise our taxes!), "County unemployment climbs to near 10 percent"! That was fun newspaper edition to read don't you think! Yesterday, we received The Homer Horizon dated December 3, 2009 and see article on page 5 "Meijer store's opening delayed"..states that Village officials have pointed it is due to the economy! Every one is suffering so I implore you to DECLINE the proposed increase to our rates when currently we are paying 3 times more than Orland Park & will be paying 4 times more if passed! This proposed increase is absurd & should be thrown out along with the IAW!
09-0319 · Ted Ciciora
December 8, 2009
Because the sole source of water for the Fosterburg Water District is water from the American Water Company (Alton), I am writing to oppose the 30.18% increase in cost for the sale of water. People are losing their jobs and water is a NECESSITY to the human race. Please consider a more fair rate as the current economy is taking its toll on the average family. We are a community of farmers and low-to-mid income families and such an increase would greatly impact its citizens.

Thank you for your consideration.
09-0319 · Terry Gueldener
December 1, 2009
Every household that has Illinois American Water Co. as a provider of water and sewer is already being charged exhorbitant fees for standard services AND yet IAW is requesting that you, the ICC, approve another HUGE increase! That's unconscienable! Why would the ICC even entertain approving an increase for IAW when they are currently charging us 2 to 3 times the rate of our adjacent suburbs (who do not have to get water and sewer from IAW). As residents of Homer Glen, we have NO choice in who we contract with to get water/sewer services. PLEASE SAY "NO" TO THEIR REQUEST ...THE SOONER YOU RULE ON THIS, THE QUICKER OUR CONFIDENCE IN THE icc WILL BE RESTORED.R. Boyan, Homer Glen
09-0319 · Rosanne Boyan
December 2, 2009
I oppose any increase to my water rates. My water rates have increased by 50% since 2002 after Illinois American Water took over water service in my area.
09-0319 · Eric Krolik
November 23, 2009
Customer called to oppose Ameren's proposed rate increase.
09-0319 · John Slater
November 23, 2009
Customer called to oppose Ameren's proposed rate hike. Customer stated "no one's paycheck is going up, so how can they increase the rates?".
09-0319 · Ida Brown
November 20, 2009
I vehemently oppose a rate increase to the already unfair and overinflated water and sewer rates we are forced to pay. Water should not be allowed to be controlled by a for profit company. Certainly not this one who has gauged this and other communities all for the sake of its share holders with no regard for the hardships it imposes on its customers.
09-0319 · Vytas Urbonas
November 20, 2009
To the Illinois Commerce Commission
On November 9,2009, during the Alton Public Forum, a Commission Representative and a IAWC Representative concurred that a Physical Audit of IAWC Southern Division had indeed happened. They did not indicate where the General Public could find and review this Physical Audit and it's findings. Please have this Physical Audit, placed on E-Docket and/or made available to the news media for everyone's benefit. Please dismiss this IAWC bailout plan from the Dockets and save OUR Money for Holding the Management of IAWC Accountable for their never ending FRAUD. The Employees Know How Much Waste there has been , it is the job of the IAG,and the ICC to Investigate Every aspect of where the Dollars went, and exactly how the Dollars have made Water More Affordable or a better value !
J.DeRuntz Granite City, Illinois
09-0319 · James E. DeRuntz
November 18, 2009
In an age of severe economic problems, Illinois American Water's profits are beyond garish. And to request the already financially stressed consumers in its service area to subsidize additional excess profits is simply immoral. If the commerce commision is going to live up to its charge to protect the citizenry, the commissioners have no choice but to deny the request completely. To do otherwise is unconscionable. Economic recovery is impossible if those who are bound to Illinois American Water for service are required to underwrite huge profits for companies already making huge profits. Please, do your jobs and say "no."
09-0319 · Bruce Swartz
November 18, 2009
This is the sweciond rate increase in one. Water service is beloww standard in Champaign. The water pressure in my condo is very poor. it takes 1o mniutes to fill the washer. Yet they want more money
09-0319 · Joeseph Perilongo
November 18, 2009
Seriously? We need another hike in water rates? The water tastes horrible and smells like sulfur, but yet we still pay our water bill every month. Now, on top of everything else, Illinois-American Water Company wants to raise our bill yet again? I'd like to see that same attitude be taken into a performance review. I can see the conversation with my boss now..."Yeah, boss, I know that quality is slipping and our product is terrible, but I really believe that I deserve a raise." I would be laughed right out of his office. The same principle applies here. Until Illinois-American Water Company does something to warrant a "raise", there is no way that water rates should be increased.
09-0319 · Matthew Kaag
November 18, 2009
Don't increase my water rates. I am a senior on a fixed income and I can't afford to pay more.
09-0319 · Edith Mies
November 16, 2009
I DO NOT WANT THE RATE INCREASE
09-0319 · JEAN CLARK
November 16, 2009
This proposed increase is very excessive. I understand that some increase is
neccessary but lets be real. If this increase is allowed Fosterburg Water District
will see an even higher increase. In this economy no one can afford this.
09-0319 · Bryan K. Gieseking
November 16, 2009
I am the person that compiled the information for the Foxcroft President to speak at the hearing. In all the hours of preparation and review of the IAW materials, I was not aware that their Glen Ellyn customers are already being charged more CURRENTLY, than the PROPOSED rates for other areas, (based on the sample bills IAW distributed).

5000 gallons Current Proposed

Glen Ellyn $90.06 $106.48

Wheaton 51.17 67.60

Lisle 68.76 85.18

for this reason alone, Glen Ellyn customers should be receiving a decrease, not an increase.

Here are some other, by no means all, areas of concern with IAW:

1) All water billing should be based on USAGE - to encourage conservation and allow customers control of their costs. Our bills have 5 FIXED charges each month, totalling $59.72, without using a drop of water. This is a hardship on all, particularly senior and single person households.

2) Their method of using different terminology on their proposed increase propoganda from what is on their bill (so you cannot determine which increase apply to you.

3) Completely false statements, such as "High-quality reliable water and wasterwater service for around a penny a gallon" (from their increase brochure, dated in code: "C")

4) We have no option but to get our water from IAW

Thus, we are relying on the ICC to rein in IAW.

A best case scenario is abolishment of this for profit company. Water should be provided by public sources.

Thank you for reading this. I really tried to keep it short. Keri Halpin 630-790-9649, 2s526 Ashley Drive, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
09-0319 · Keri Halpin
November 12, 2009
Illinois American Water Company (Alton) applied for a 30.18% increase to the water rates.

My water company, Fosterburg Water District, will most likely have to raise their rates to cover the American Water Company rate increase.

ICC--Please reduce the rate increase given to Illinois American Water Company.

Thank You.

Nancy Suhling
Alton, IL
Fosterburg Water District
09-0319 · Nancy Suhling
November 12, 2009
This is to voice my opinion on the raise increase in the water rates. IT is too-too-much. Think about all the people you are supplying. We all have to live. Many don't have the means to pay for all the expenses of living, so be considerate and think about this as you are trying to run your business.

For us, we live on a retired income. Mostly all set income. No raises, and if SS does give a raise, there's always somewhere, someone else has raised and taken that. Times are hard for all and will get worse.

God is in control and will only tolerate so much. Praying for all concerned, we can't afford what you are proposing.

Jean F. Clark
James D. Clark
Fosterburg water district
09-0319 · James Clark
November 12, 2009
Unless Illinois-American water company had NO profits last year then I think we need to deny the increase. All of us are having to do with LESS right now and we certainly do not want to see our water rates go up. We already pay so much for water here in Brighton that when you tell others how much you pay,they are appalled.
09-0319 · Jim Barrish
November 12, 2009
I do not want the raise to go in affect
09-0319 · Allie Terrell
November 12, 2009
Me and my family just moved from lockport to homer glen because of property taxes. We had a tough time keeping up in lockport with the way the economy is now. The water bill in lockport was no more than $60.00 a month including garbage and sewer. Then we moved 2 miles down and the water bill averages at $165.00 a month. We are having a hard time paying all the other bills when water is a major necessity. I am not understanding why the rates are so much higher than in lockport and we are closer to lake michigan. I would really appreciate if there is some kind of deduction in the water bill because we are struggling to get by. Thank you for your time.
09-0319 · Matthew Nosal
November 12, 2009
This is a ridiculous one-time rate increase. Whatever happened to a long range business plan that takes upgrades into consideration ahead of time and plans on incremental rate increases? I haven't heard that this is for an emergency fix.
09-0319 · Gary Banks
November 12, 2009
A 30% increase is an outrage! This sounds like poor planning on American Water to increase rates by this much. Do not grant this increase.
09-0319 · Troy Lively
November 12, 2009
Recently I discovered that I am paying fully double for water, sewer, trash services as comparable single person households in neighboring cities of Wood River and Edwardsville, Illinois. This is outrageously unfair. I now learn that Illinois American Water Company is seeking yet another rate hike. In view of the fact that they have obtained increases amounting to approximately 72% over the last six years, this is absolutely intolerable.

I sincerely hope that the Illinois Commerce Commission will act to block any rate increase.
09-0319 · J. Joiner
November 12, 2009
Please do not approve this rate increase. We are in the middle of a terrible recession and have already had to endure rat increases from our other utilities.
Unemployment is high and wages are down. This is not the time for an increase.
09-0319 · Brett Hall
November 10, 2009
I feel this is very very unfair. For people on a fixed income we don't get a raise. this will hurt me. I'm an easy going guy but I am really upset about this.
09-0319 · Roger Stewart
November 10, 2009
bills are outrageous now and can hardly feed a family. I pay $132. /mo. now for this serv. and cannot imagine it getting higher. I believe people will be moving to get away from this companyh. please do not raise rate any more.
09-0319 · ann olson
November 12, 2009
With todays economy, the general public is having a hard enough time paying their bills. Too many people are losing their homes, this increase will hurt the majority of Illinoisians. Can the increase wait until the economy bounces back?
09-0319 · Denise E ST PETERS
November 12, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Joanne Pettitt
November 12, 2009
haven't you noticed we are all in $ crisis--No increase Please!
09-0319 · pAT MURRELL
November 12, 2009
WE, JAMES AND JEAN CLARK ARE AGAINST THE PROPOSED RATE INCREASE IN WATER.
09-0319 · JAMES AND JEAN CLARK
November 12, 2009
While I am unable to attend tonights meeting in Alton, I still wish to strongly voice my opposition to an Illinois-American Water Company Proposed general increase in water and sewer rates. During this recession is the worst possible time for any company to request a rate increase. No one I know has received a raise in their salary or take home pay this year. How can a company that is presently profitable ask for more money out of my pocket. What is the tipping point? When people's water and sewer service are being discontinued or disconnected due to non-payment. I can no longer afford a night out at the movies or even dinner out occassionally. Every penny that comes into my house is accounted for. At a time when there is no discresionary allowance in my household how can I be asked to pay yet more for the necessities I need just to survive day to day? This rate increase CANNOT be allowed to happen!!!!
09-0319 · Dennis Cannon
November 12, 2009
I can't believe that it's even being considered that Illinois-American Water be allowed to raise water and/or sewer rates. It's not enough, I guess, that I can barely afford to keep my lights on, now I have to worry about water too? COME ON ILLINOIS - get a fricking grip and get in touch with the people of the State of Illinois. DO NOT ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN. I can guarantee that if this continues, I, for one, will be looking to relocate in a state that gives a crap about it's residents. And I'm sure, like Ameren's raise a year or so ago, that this will go right through regardless of what the residents want. These rich companies keep getting richer, yet the people of Illinois keep getting poorer. What gives????? Thank you!!
09-0319 · cheryl e quirin
November 12, 2009
I'm writing to say I am against an increase of 30.18percent to the water rates. This will cause a hardship on my husband and I, and I am sure many other senior citizens who are trying to survive on Social Security. We have already been told there will be no increase in Social Security for the next 2 years, but the Medicare is going up, so that means we will have less to live on. Our electricity just went up 9 percent and we are going to see cuts in our Circuit Breaker. No more break on our license plates, no more help in our Real Estates taxes. I don't know how we can continue to pay increases when we have less to spend. I hope the commission will take this into consideration before allowing such an increase.
09-0319 · Marilyn Davis
November 12, 2009
On behalf of the new customers for rural water in the Bunker Hill area, I am voicing my displeasure over the potential rate increase. We have waited YEARS to acquire water and have had the benefit only since September 2009. I received my first water bill mid-October and within days also received a letter informing me of an increase!!!!! To say the least, this maneuver is very unfair. It is unfair to slap rural water customers with a higher “sale for resale” rate increase.

I am asking for assistance in reversing this request by the Illinois American Company. Would you please listen to the public outcry, including my plea, to help?

Thank you for your time.
09-0319 · Kelly Komnick
November 12, 2009
I am against any increase in rates at this time. So many people are out of work and have lost their homes. I work at a church and am well aware of the number of people in this area that are in need. We had a number of calls this morning from people who have had their water shut off or had disconnection notices and they are seeking help--- for the first time in their lives. Please don't place an even greater burden on those people or on others who are trying to help them by raising rates.

Once the economy is better, there will be plenty of time to catch up with rates and expenses. For now, make the responsible business decision to hold off until people are able to make ends meet.
09-0319 · Susan Delano
November 9, 2009
To whom it may concern at the Illinois Commerce Commision. My name is Bruce Smith. I am sending this comment here to protest and give my opinion on the proposed water and sewer rate increases proposed by the Illinois American Water Company. Most hardworking taxpayers like myself get a 3 to 5 percent increase in our wages annually. With this in mind I wonder why it is that the Illinois American Water Company can even fathom asking for a 30 percent increase in their rates. It is hard enough now to scrape by with the already high taxes taken from us on every side. Further rate increases like this only serve to drive down the value of the dollar and hurt the Illinois economy further. Higher rates for utilities is not the answer to the problems. I'm asking you at the Illinois Commerce Commission to deny the Illinois American Water Company the (30 percent)??? increase in their water and sewer rates. Let that company do like the rest of us are having to do and find ways to save themselves some money by reducing their costs of production. I could understand a 3 percent increase but 30 percent? This is simply robbery. Yes I understand that companies need some profit but theres no need for them to price gouge us the citizens of this state. Where does the crookedness stop?? I want it to be known that I vote, that i never miss a chance to vote, and my opinions are reflected in my votes. Thankyou for hearing me.
09-0319 · Bruce W. Smith
November 9, 2009
I think Illinois American water's request for an increase in the amount of 30.08% is pure insanity. Is there anyone there who knows what's going on with the economy today? This increase request is adding insult to injury! Frankly, I think there will be a lot of people going back to well-water if that increase is passed.
09-0319 · Ken Ramsland
November 9, 2009
I feel an increase in water rates of 30.18% are grossly unfair as they will pass on a higher increase down line from water supplier Fosterburg Water District. We understand water shortages will be the next battleground we face but smaller increases in this poor economy would better serve the hard stressed public.
09-0319 · TERRY CLOSE
November 9, 2009
I know of very few people in Brighton who are paying less than $50 per month for water and if you have a family of 4 or more, the cost is astronomical! Forget about watering your lawn or garden, unless you are wealthy you can't afford it. I don't like the idea of Illinois-American having a monopoly on water all over the state either. I have seen absolutely NO benefit since they took over Brighton's water.TImes are hard in Illinois right now, millions out of work and others trying to get by on two part time jobs, then they have to compete with our HUGE illegal immigrant population. We can not afford to pay another increase on something everyone HAS TO HAVE.
If they are doing so poorly maybe Illinois American should sell the water companies BACK to the cities! I would vote for that in a heartbeat!
09-0319 · James Barrish
November 9, 2009
It is absolutely unconscionable and mean spirited for any hike in water or sewer services, especially within Cook County. The millions being asked for could easily be saved by trimming the payroll within the Chicago Metro District.

Far to many of us have been negatively impacted by job loss and the possibility of losing our homes to foreclosures. While we struggle to cover our daily costs, we see little if any tangible, real effort for cost cutting within the various governmental bodies who control these matters.

I would be the first in line to lead an effort to thwart this proposed hike. It simply could not come at a worse time for the vast majority of us who do not have guaranteed for life government jobs or relatives who somehow manage to find constant well paying jobs within the aforementioned governmental bodies.

Cut YOUR costs before you would increase our burden one more dime !
09-0319 · Dennis Baker
November 9, 2009
This is not the time to increase water rates. Although I am interested in clean water and research on how to delieve quality service, I along with others can not afford another increase. Please defer until there is a turn in the economy.

Thank you.
09-0319 · Andrea C. Adams
November 9, 2009
I am respectfully asking that this proposed general increase in water and sewer rates not be granted by the Illinois State regulators to the Illinois-American Water Company, especially at a time when most citizens are individually struggling to maintain a non-poverty level and to avoid a government/charity dependent level in life. My husband is only one of thousands of workers who have been laid off in the past year. This is not a time when we can afford to pay more for basic necessities such as drinking water. Allowing a rate increase at this time would not only exacerbate an already eroding financial situation at a personal level, but it would have implications at the local, state, and federal levels, too. It is the time for individuals, for private and public companies, and for the governments to maintain what they already have and postpone growth until the majority in this society can participate and mutually benefit. I realize that there is a cost to a business and the purpose of business is realization of profit and basic growth, but not at the expense of an already financially unstable citizenry. Thank you.
09-0319 · Gina M Holloway
November 9, 2009
I would like to add my comments to the numerous others who are concerned about the requested rate increase by Il. American Water Co.
I feel the requested rate hike is frivolous, unfair and does not warrant consideration. Whenever a company feels it needs more revenue, the burden falls onto the consumer. Where does the consumer turn to??? The consumer's only alternative is to tighten their belts and scale down on their spending. The only question is, how far can one scale down when they are on a fixed income. There comes a time when the consumer runs out of money. What then. Do we all go on welfare???
The Il. American Water Co. should not try to expand but should tighten their belts and also scale down. We, the consumer, through the current economy, have been taught how not to waste. Therefore, it is time for all companies, local goverments and the federal goverment to stop waste. Maybe then we will realize an economic recovery!!!
09-0319 · Victor P. Garbonkus
November 6, 2009
Thank you for this opportunity to express my comment.
With unemployment affecting so many in our community including within my household, it is becoming a struggle to meet everyday expenses at the current rate. A minor increase may be understandable. The increase requested is beyond compreshension. The government must protect our community from becoming further distressed! Who's income raises by over 30%?
Our seniors will not get a 30% increase in their "fixed income". Please step in and keep us from becoming even more financially crippled.
09-0319 · Barbara Williams
November 6, 2009
To whom it may concern,
I believe that the request of the American Water Co for a 30% increase is rediculous. You have people in this state who are without jobs and can barely make their house payments and the necessary utilities now. You have people who are taking a cut in pay just to have a job to survive. You have a Governor who wants to increase taxes and has already increased so many license fees and permits. Where does it stop? Most people in this state are lucky to get a pay increase and if they do they sure don't get 30%. Where does this company get off requesting this kind of increase.
The only thing more troubling than this company asking for this kind of increase would be for this ICC board to give it to them. We have seen our electric bills increase because of this board. Enough is enough, it's time to tell the big business NO. We as citzens have to tighten up our belts during these hard times so it's time the big company do the same. We have gotten bad representation from this board before and I hope they realize people can't afford this kind of increase. Some people may get a cost of living increase which may be about 3% if their lucky. You have retired people who live on a fixed income and can not afford these kind of increases. It's time to scale back on these big companies and their big profits.
09-0319 · William W Rice Jr
November 6, 2009
A 30.18% rate increase is outrageous in the present economic conditions! Fosterburg water district would then have to increase their rates to their customers at what rate? When will the greed end? Please do not allow this increase to pass. Fosterburg customers have always paid ridiculously high fees for many years. If an increase is truly necessary, why not do it incrementally in small doses?
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of my comments.
Gary Labertew
Culp Lane
09-0319 · Gary Labertew
November 6, 2009
I strongly oppose the increase in water/sewer rates from Illinois American Water. Below are reasons why the increase in rates is so wrong. A. The proposed rate increase will further depress our housing values. Prospective home buyers will certainly find the high rates for water/sewer in the neighborhood to be a strong negative to buying. This is not the time to hurt homeowners by supporting any thing that will hurt home prices. B. Their current water/sewer service is already the HIGHEST$ in our area. IAW certainly has made considerable profit over the years and this profit should be what IAW uses for infrastructure maintenace cost. C. The proposed higher rates for water/sewer service far exceeds the cost of living increases for other goods and services. Their excessive request impacts retired people like myself extra hard. PLEASE, PLEASE think about what this unfair rate increase will do to our living expense budgets and to the resale value of homes in our neighborhood. Ann Pawlak
09-0319 · Ann Pawlak
November 6, 2009
We have two (2) adults living in our household. Our water/sewer bills consistently range from $84 to $95 per month. I can only imagine what my sister and her family of four (4) who also live in Homer Glen pay to IAW! I worry about their finances too. My sister was recently laid off and now their family of four (4) must survive on one income. An increase in their water/sewer bill will surely affect their finances!

To have IAW think that we can all afford an extra $40-50 per month so that we can pay for them to expand or repair their existing structures is UNFAIR! IAW should use their profits! In these tough economic times, it is unbelieveable that a company who is making a profit for providing a basic necessity would try to increase their profits at the expense of their customers. We do not have a choice to get our water and sewer services elsewhere. IAW has all of the control and they think that they can squeeze more money out of already tight household budgets.

The residents in the surrounding suburbs do not have water/sewer bills as high as we do here in Homer Glen. Do I have to move 1 mile to have lower water/sewer bills? Before moving to Homer Glen, we used to pay $90 for 3 months ($30 per month) for water, sewer, AND garbage pick-up. Let me say that the suburb did not have IAW for its service.

Please do not allow IAW to raise their rates!
09-0319 · Ray Kurpiewski
November 6, 2009
I am a Homer Glenn resident - our water bill is for 2 adults and is approximately $85/month. We have checked for leaks as was suggested by IAW - found none - follow the guidelines such as only running the dishwasher when it is full - washing full tubs of clothing - no watering of the grass - etc. Our bill is still averaging around $85.00/month. Many complaints have been filed by the residents of Homer Glen and many residents of Homer Glen feel it is a waste of time because nothing is being done to help us. Most all households are cutting back, prioritizing their needs. IAW is telling us they want something new and we, the citizens of Homer, are going to pay for it one way or another. Please help us.
09-0319 · Diane G. Pakus
November 6, 2009
We do not want the American Water Company to get a 30.18% increase in rate. Please exercise whatever you have in your arsenal to stop this. We are on a fixed income and with everything increasing where are we suppose to get the extra money to pay for our basic everyday needs with the most important being water. AND, we hate the thought of the profits made from Americans on our very basic need going to Germany. We thought selling OUR water to a foreign concern a mistake from day one. What better way to make profits for Germany then to make money on American water. I guess we could all dig our own wells. Wouldn't that be a sight. Please, please STOP this increase from happening.
09-0319 · Barbara A. Allen
November 6, 2009
I am against the proposed increase in water/sewer rates from Illinois American Water for the following reasons:
1. Their current water/sewer rates are already among the highest in our area.
2. The proposed higher rates for water/sewer service far exceeds of the cost of living increases for other goods and services. Their excessive request impacts retired people like myself extra hard.
3. The proposed increase will further depresses our housing values. Prospective home buyers will certainly find minimum water costs of almost $1200/yr to be a negative for our neighborhood. This is the wrong time to hurt homeowners by supporting measures that hurt home prices.
4. It appears that IAW has made handsome profits over the years after it took over water delivery from Citizens Utility. It is IAW's own fault if it didn't reserve some of it's past profits for infrastructure maintenance - we homeowner's shouldn't have to pay for maintenance twice (once from all our prior high monthly water/sewer bills and now again to cover the maintence that IAW failed to provide for from our current high rates).

Enough, Please hear my plea to hold back this unjust rate increase request.

Joe Pawlak
09-0319 · Joe Pawlak
November 6, 2009
I strongly oppose this rate increase as unfair being a citizen of the community it is affected by.

Thanks.
09-0319 · Cheenu Murthy
November 6, 2009
As a Village Trustee in Marine, IL and one behalf of the Village Board, I am urging you to deny American Water Company's Rate increase. Our Village is facing a 12 percent reduction in state revenue and a decrease in assessed evaluation. If this rate increase is approved, we will have no choice but to raise water rates again or raise property taxes. Many of our residents are on fixed incomes, and ohters are already struggling financially. Income is stagnant, and prices of goods and services continue to rise.
09-0319 · Thelma Vernatti
November 5, 2009
We have just been notified that if a rate increase is approved for illinois American water company it will cause our water costs to raise approximately 30%. We urgently ask that you do not approve this rate increase at this time.
09-0319 · Shirely Lyerla
November 5, 2009
I AM AGAINST IAW'S PROPOSAL TO INCREASE OUR RATES. I BELIEVE A RATE INCREASE IN THIS ECONOMICAL ENVIRONMENT WILL BE HARMFUL TO THE COMMUNITY. I OPPOSE THE RATE INCREASE.
09-0319 · DENNIS DUGAN
November 6, 2009
IAW should be rolling back prices - like the rest of the world. It is appalling to think that after just receiving a rate hike they are asking for ANYTHING. They should be giving back to their customers. We have NO OTHER OPTION.

Everyone is reducing expenses, cutting costs. I just read an article yesterday about companies that are surviving the recession - these companies have implemented a variety of options which include: freezing salaries, when an employee leaves not replacing them, reducing benefits, going line by line and cutting expenses. Everyone I have come in contact with is reducing expenses, they have lost jobs, some have lost their companies, they have lost their homes and I am not talking about seniors. These are hard working middle- to upper middle-class.

Within the last year, year and a half - IAW replaced the fire hydrants in the Valley View subdivision (southern Glen Ellyn) where I live. Many of these hydrants were the ones that were put in 50 years ago. They had to replace them because the old hydrants were not able to be flushed, therefore never have been. Interestingly there were people that FELT PROTECTED because they had a fire hydrant on their front lawn or on their neighbor’s front lawn - only to find out that the hydrants didn't work. But the grace of God there weren’t any fires.

I have a friend in the western side of this subdivision that in 2007 called for several weeks because the fire hydrant was leaking to the point that her entire front lawn (and it is a rather large front lawn) was like a swamp. If you walked on the grass you would sink in several inches. It took several weeks because IAW made comments like – it rained, it’s not the hydrant, we don’t know if it is our water, and on and on.

We have a water shut-off in the middle of our driveway. The water main broke and they couldn’t figure where the shut-off was and then couldn’t shut it off because of stones and debris. It was the holidays and they did not come to the door and say ‘hey are you leaving because we are in the middle of your drive and you won’t be able to get out’.

When I have to replace the roof on my home or other large items, I cannot go to my boss or our clients and say - I need this much more money to cover my roof. They would tell me – you have mismanaged your funds and it is not our business, nor our problem.

Enough is enough - someone needs to tell these companies. This is how much money you get – you are not getting any more, make your budget work, just like your customers are doing!

Illinois American Water is a monopoly – the customers that fall into Illinois American Water service area HAVE NO OTHER OPTIONS. This monopoly is the essence of the tail wagging the dog. It needs to stop.

They need to roll back prices. The ICC needs to stand up for the residents of this state and say NO, a loud NO.
09-0319 · Katherine Cilley
November 6, 2009
The Illinois-American Water rate hike proposal is so out of line with prevailing water rates in neighboring communities that it is neither fair nor appropriate and represents an inordinate financial burden on the affected populace for a basic and necessary utility. Please turn down the rate hike request!
09-0319 · Alan Freund
November 6, 2009
I am not in favor of the rate hike for Illinois American Water company.
I am not in favor of ComEd destroying the trees and bushes along the Prairie Path.
09-0319 · JAN WAICHUNAS
November 6, 2009
Dear ICC ,IAG,and ALL Ilinois American Consumers,
Support for OUR comments, 461 at this writing, can multiply by thousands, we have to let all IAWC Customers what is happening, We The People of the Illinois also have the right to discuss with,Union Leadership and Representatives, the Operational and Maintenance Conditions on a daily basis of Function. The ICC and the IAG have chosen to not Investigate the Company from the Functionallity for the Money Standpoint,therefore the past Rates have done very little, for the Water System That has been Paid for Multiple Times. ASK your neighbors what they know and who they know with regard to Water Plant/ Company Employees, they are the ONLY Stuards of OUR Water Systems 24/7.
Has Anyone recieved Public Notice of the NOV.9 Alton Il. Public Forum at Alton Square??
Not Enough People know what has happened with the last 3 Rate's case moneys.
J.E. DeRuntz
618-709-7238
09-0319 · James E. DeRuntz
November 6, 2009
I am against any rate hike. I would like to see a decrease in the rate. In this economy commodity prices are down and there is no reason to justify this increase. I am already paying more than what i paid in other surrounding areas and this usually included sewer and trash pick up. In Fosterburg i get only water with my fees.
09-0319 · Jason Dorris
November 6, 2009
There is no legitimate reason for this increase, especially with the economy coming out of a recession; Wall Street may have recovered somewhat, but Main Street is still suffering. If there are shortfalls in proposed budgets, it is due due the reckless spending by municipalities and county boards.
09-0319 · Jack Piazza
November 6, 2009
we already pay 2 water bills, City of Wheaton and County. Our monthly water bill now is more than what some other state localities pay for 3 months and they do not pay to the city.
I am opposed to a rate hike and urge CUB not to grant the increase.
09-0319 · thomas mikol
November 6, 2009
Please consider this rate increase very closely. I'm voicing my opposition to it. This is just not the time to raise people's rates. Personal households have economized, that needs to be done here also. The tax/fee/rate burden on taxpayers is substantial and should not be increased at this time.

Thank you for your consideration.
Irene Rundblom
09-0319 · Irene Rundblom
November 6, 2009
Please reduce the rate of increase of 30.18% applied for by the Ilinois American Water Company, so that Fosterburg Water District will not have to increase their rate by such a large amount.
09-0319 · Michele Bertels
November 6, 2009
Please be advised that my household is opposed to the proposed water rate increased requested by Illinois-American Water Company.

Respectfully,

Dan Gorski
09-0319 · Daniel Gorski
November 6, 2009
I am opposed to a rate increase on the water rate hike.
09-0319 · Richard Sublett
November 6, 2009
We are very concerned that our already very high water rates may potentially increase up to 30 percent. Illinois American Water should take into account that the current economic/financial crunch is being experienced by all of their customers and it's not appropriate for Illinois American Water to be hungry for more profits during this difficult economic time. As a consumer of a product/service only they can provide in our area, we're quite dissatisfied with the high rates that we already see month to month, especially seeing that we've employed several water-saving efforts in our household, and somehow our monthly rates have continued to increase. In fact, over the last six months or so, our bill has gone up and mysteriously we've been billed the exact same dollar amount to the penny despite the fact that we're trying to save water in any way possible. Not only is it a precious resource, but it's a very costly one for consumers that have to pay the high rates that Illinois American Water's monopoly allows them to charge. Please do not allow this to happen. Illinois American Water should not be allowed to be so greedy and take advantage of their monopoly on this market at the consumer's expense. It is true that business is business, but Illinois American Water should not be allowed to stick it to their customers just because they'd like to increase their profits and put more money into their own pocket.
09-0319 · Henry Lazzaro
November 3, 2009
The proposed rate increase is not a fair one. An almost 1/3 increase in these times with our economy down is unreasonable. I urge the commission to consider a much lower increase or none at all.

Thank You.
Larry B. Payne
09-0319 · Larry Payne
November 3, 2009
I am totally opposed to the rate hike that is being proposed in 09-0319
09-0319 · Doug MacPhail
November 3, 2009
Illinois-American Water Company in Alton, IL has requested a water rate hike. If this is given to them, then my local water supplier, Fosterburg Water will be charged a higher rate than what Illinois American receives. This, to me, seems very unfair and nothing short of price gouging. What alternative do small community water districts have but to be held at gunpoint by suppliers. DO NOT ALLOW THIS RATE HIKE, as I am sure Illinois-American Water Comany is doing just fine. Make them show you proof that this is a required hike.

Thank you for listening,
Nancy Lochmann
8760 North State Rt. 159
Dorsey, IL 62021
09-0319 · Nancy Lochmann
November 3, 2009
It is time this company operate with some control. The minimum monthly cost with no water useage is more than I pay Edison for useing 536 KWH.for one month.
Last year Illinois American Water gave me an estimated bill in May, this bill was far more than I use in two months. The following month I was sent a bill with 0 galons useage. For this I was told I must pay the minimum useage bill which was $68.12
$68.12 for no water useage is unjust and tells me this company needs some serious regulating.
My electric bill this month is $63.54 this is for 536 kwh which I consider fair for one months useage of electricity.
Can you explain to me what is wrong with this picture?
09-0319 · Charles R. Polke
November 3, 2009
Raising the cost of necessary utilities in this enconomy is unacceptable. The Illinois - American Water Company needs to look into the structure and practices in their company and make the appropriate changes within before asking the public to pay more for their services. Households and companies across the US are making changes and reducing waste. It is time for the Illinois - American Water Company to do the same.
09-0319 · Toni Yager
November 3, 2009
I am serviced by Forsterburg water Company whicdh is a sale for resale customer for the Illinois American Water Company. Water charges are extremely high for those serviced by Fosterbury Water. If you were to allow the 30 per cent rate increase that would probaly nearly double our water bill.

I am a senior retired and having difficulty with high water and utility bills. Please do not allow this huge rate increase which would be passed on to resale customers.
09-0319 · Betty J. Treat
November 3, 2009
We add our name to outrage at the exorbitant price of water and sewer in Homer Glen. We hope and expect the ICC to seriously consider the request by IAW to raise [again] these utility rates.
We have been diligent in our awareness of cutting back on our consumption and we feel that IAW should be more than diligent in its constancy and care of our rates [especially] during these difficult economic times.

We also petition the State of Illinois or whoever are the "powers that be" to consider Homer Glen for allowing us to have our own water supply.

With the over the top taxes in Homer and the over the top water bills - Homer Glen will be a town for the "rich" only. We have no other means of revenue beside Menard's, Dominicks, Sears Essentials and Home Depot. There are other small businesses but certainly not enough to offset the lack of substantial revenue.

It is our view that Homer Glen should have stayed the way it was seven or eight years ago - but then that's another matter.

Thanks for the opportunity to "speak out."
09-0319 · Mel Benakovich
November 3, 2009
We need relief from exorbatant water and sewer charges, not another increase in the rates. Where there is no competition there is abuse. The ICC is our only protection. I do not have the option of a private well or sewer. I am stuck with IAW.
09-0319 · John P. Kaffel
November 3, 2009
I am writing to respectfully but emphatically ask that you do not approve in April, 2010, the rate increase requested by Illinois American Water.

Illinois American Water already charges exorbitant rates to its customers in Homer Glen, more than double the rates of surrounding communities. The monthly charges for water are a burden to families and the high rates act as a deterrent for people wanting to move into the community.

The requested increase would go toward funding future expansion plans and also help to cover employee benefit costs and other operating expenses. Illinois American Water is a private company -- it is unconscionable for IAW to ask customers (of a basic necessity!) in Homer Glen to pay for these things.

Thank you.
09-0319 · Jill Tomanich
November 3, 2009
I am a resident of unincorporated Elmhurst,Il. We are (unfortunately) served by Illinois American Water Co. The rates that they charge almost amount to usury and the service is spotty at best. I pay on average $99 per month. My wife and I are retired and have no children living at home. We do about 2 loads of wash a week and I have long ago given up watering my lawn though I do water about 5 or 6 outside potted plants.
My neighbors in incorporated Elmhurst, about one block to the south, pay less than a quarter for their water and sewage. How can there be such a disparity in cost??????
Please help us reduce these unconscionable overcharges.
Thank you, Bruce Berndt, 3 N 454 Crown Rd, Elmhurst,Il.60126
630-941-9465
09-0319 · Bruce Berndt
November 2, 2009
WE DON'T NEED ANOTHER RATE INCREASE AT THIS TIME. ECONOMICALLY WE CAN'T AFFORD IT. THIS AREA IS ALREADY HAVING A DIFFICULT TIME.
09-0319 · PAT DESHERLIA
November 2, 2009
I am writing to respectfully but emphatically ask that you do not approve in April, 2010, the rate increase requested by Illinois American Water. Illinois American Water already charges exorbitant rates to its customers in Homer Glen, more than double the rates of surrounding communities. The monthly charges for water are a burden to families and the high rates act as a deterrent for people wanting to move into the community. The requested increase would go toward funding future expansion plans and also help to cover employee benefit costs and other operating expenses. Illinois American Water is a private company -- it is unconscionable for IAW to ask customers (of a basic necessity!) in Homer Glen to pay for these things. Thank you.
09-0319 · Jill Tomanich
November 2, 2009
Mrs. Jainer objects to the proposed "30.18% rate increase." On 10/31/09, She rcv'd a letter from the water co. concerning the requested rate increase.
09-0319 · Diane Joiner
November 3, 2009
I am opposed to the huge rate increase requested by Illinois-American Water Co. I am a customer of a rural water system that buys water from Illinois-American. Our water rates are already very expensive and will likely go up at an even greater percentage than any increase that is allowed by the ICC. I find it hard to believe that Illinois-American can substantiate a 30%+ increase that it is asking for. Thank you.
09-0319 · Constance M. Bond
November 3, 2009
Please don't allow a price increase in our water rates. I know it is a vicious cycle, but just being able to keep the utility bills paid is getting harder and harder when employers are not paying bonuses or even giving cost of living raises. It has to stop somewhere. I ask that you take a position to help the consumers that try hard to pay their own way. Thank you.
09-0319 · Donna Stecher
November 3, 2009
I find the current rates beyond reason. Any increases would be totally inappropriate. I know that others have given many reasons, so I will not take up your time or mine repeating them.
09-0319 · Nora Waliczek
November 3, 2009
At this difficult economic time, the ICC cannot possibly allow a utility company to raise its rates by 30%. Plus, the 30% is only for the primary customers. I am a "sale for resale" customer; therefore, no matter what, my rate will increase even more than what the ICC approves.

I already pay between $35-40/month, and I don't have a sprinkler system or a pool. Water is expensive for those of us who purchase it from the Fosterburg Water District, and it is maddening, considering those who live across the street from me are getting the same water for half the price. Please don't make this more unfair than it already is.
09-0319 · Terri R. Hilgendorf
November 3, 2009
I am against any rate hikes for our water. Everything is going up in cost, and our income is not. This community has many un-empolyed, and low income people, and 30.18% is just an insane amount to raise anything. We can barely make ends meet with 2 incomes, and can't afford such a large jump in our bills.
09-0319 · Carol Franklin
November 3, 2009
Please do not allow the 30.18% increase that Illinois American Water Company is requesting. There are two of us in our home and our water bill averages about $50.00 a month already. I will be watching for the amount of the increase, and listening for the rational given for having any increase at all. Please consider the consumers on this one.
09-0319 · Sonjia Peacock
November 3, 2009
My wife and I moved into a townhome in Homer Glen in 2006. The townhome association waters all the lawns and shrubs from on site ponds so no Illinois-American Water Company charges are incurred.

We downsized from a 3 bedroom home in Orland Park. In Orland Park we had a 12,000 sq. ft. lot with underground sprinklers which were utilized every other day per water restriction guidelines.

Our monthly Illinois-American Water bills are greater in Homer Glen than they were in Orland Park when we were using a significant more amount of water. We never expected our water bill to increase in the townhome when we were utilizing about 50% less water!

We are asking the ICC to deny the proposed rate increase for Illinois-American Water. In fact the ICC should immediately open an investigation of Illinois-American Water to determine why Homer Glen rates are so expensive.

09-0319 · Mark Benko
November 3, 2009
After attending the public forum regarding Illinois American Water's proposed rate increases, we were left with the feeling that American Illinois Water is arrogant in a number of ways.

1, They are charging amoungst the HIGHEST rates for water and sewer in the state and at the meeting, their representatives either refused or could not justify their present rate structure.

2. Even with these absorbant rates, they had the audicity to request increase approvals from the ICC.

How can Illinois American Water ask for increases beyond which they cannot justify their original base???

We request that you not only refuse any increase but also demand that Illinois American Water adjust their rates equal to the median charged in the area.
09-0319 · John and Kathy Thomas
November 3, 2009
This is my comment about the water rate increase, that Illinois American Water Co. filed for in May 2009. I was laid off in March 2009, and I have not found a job yet. I've cut back on a lot of the things, but I don't think that I can cut back on my water consumption. I know that every company needs to make money. But an increase of 30.18% is just a bit much!
My last 2 1/2 years of working, I didn't get a raise. Then on top of that, we lost 3% of our total salary. Did that save my jod, no.
With the unemployment rate as high as it is and the shape of our economy. I feel that this increase will just make things worse, for everyone.

Thank You

Eldon Mollet
09-0319 · Eldon Mollet
November 3, 2009
How the IAW can propose a rate increase in these trying economic times, in a community that already pays the highest rates in the state is beyond comprehension. Why have we been singled out and forced to pay such ridiculously rates in the first place? The current rates cannot be justified, so the idea of any rate increase, let alone the size of this increase, is just absurd and unfair. We are being taken advantage of for one simple reason: we have no choice.

And that is why we need your help, because we have now other recourse. Your stated mission is to "pursue an appropriate balance between the interest of consumers and existing and emerging service providers to ensure the provision of adequate, efficient, reliable, safe and least-cost public utility services." It appears obvious that the balance has been tilted in the favor of the IAW for too long.

Please help our community and decide against the IAW rate increase. All we are asking for is to be treated fairly. We are already paying more than our fair share, and we will see no benefit from this increase.
09-0319 · Gary Quaranta
November 3, 2009
I am opposed to the high rate increase proposed by Illinois-American Water Company. Even in this economy, 30.18% is an exhorbitant increase. It would cause an extreme increase in the water company which serves me, Fosterburg Water Company. If an increase is granted, it should be in a lower and more reasonable amount.
09-0319 · Rita Leigh
November 3, 2009
Our rates are already I don't believe such a high rate increase is necessary. Thanks
09-0319 · eugene j feldmann
November 3, 2009
I received a letter from my water company, Fosterburg Water, that my rate for water may be increased. It seems everything is going up,except my income. If you increase the rate of sale to my water company, I suppose then my rate will also increase, I have lived in my house for 17 years, I have seen an increase several times,but this time they are suggesting a 30.18% increase. On a bill of $40.00,plus increase, that will be $52.00. Multiply that times all the people that have this water company, that is alot of money, who benefits? Oh, yes, this must be for the company bonuses! I wish they had to live on a limited income, where little or no raise is given yearly. On behalf of my family, I object to this rate increase very much!
09-0319 · Susan A Dixon
November 3, 2009
I believe that Illinois American should not be allowed to increase the water rates in Homer Glen, IL. These are two of us living in this house. I am retired and my wife works. The fact is our monthly water bill averages around $ 108.00 per month. It is hard enough to pay that, but property taxes have also gone up to the point where we are paying as much for these two items as we are paying toward our mortgage. We may have to sell and find a cheaper city to live in if these charges continue to grow. Illinois american needs to get its act together and become much more efficient in the way it services its customers. I complained about a leak for several years and was always told it was ground water. I finally hired an independent contractor who tore up the driveway and found the city main leaking. They even went so far as to say they tested the water and it was not theirs. Obviously that was not true. I know they will probably get their increase but at least I can say that I complained and lost out.
09-0319 · ROBERT ZAKER
October 30, 2009
I am a senior citizen and I cannot afford the 30% proposed increase being proposed by IAWC, please do not approve this increase!
09-0319 · Joyce Barrett
October 30, 2009
the rates are already outrageous and does not believe a 30% increase is necessary. the water quality is not that great now. please do not allow rate increase.
09-0319 · Ronald Shroyer
October 30, 2009
A 30% INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER IS TOO HIGH. I'M RETIRED AND ON A FIXED INCOME. I DON'T SEE THAT AN INCREASE OF THAT SIZE IS NECESSARY. I AM OPPOSED TO THE RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN.
09-0319 · CHARLES ZARGES
November 3, 2009
I can't believe that anyone would be allowed this large of an increase. It doesn't need to happen we can't afford it. It needs to be stopped now.
09-0319 · Mary Nelson
November 3, 2009
This is outrageous and very sad that I live in a state that has no regard for the people that live here. I moved to Homer Glen from Burbank, where we paid $20. a month for water. It is about 16 miles away and my current water bill is $136. We live near one of the great lakes, not the Mohave Desert. I have two jobs, I had three but it was too much for me. I can't afford to live here and I can't afford to move out. I wish I had checked the water bill before I moved. We would never have moved here. I don't mind paying for a service but how unfair that our proposed water is more than 265% higher than a community less than a mile away. I beg you, I plead with you, I implore you. I ask you. I petition you. Please, Please, Please do not raise this water.
09-0319 · Mary Reed
October 29, 2009
I wish to voice my concern against the proposed water rate increase for my town. The amount we currently pay for water is higher than any other surrounding village or town that has access to Lake Michigan water.

I do not feel that we as consumers should shoulder the costs for infrastructure repairs and updates that
Illinois-American suggests, given the current climate the economy is in.

It is my hope that the rate increase proposed is denied.

Sincerely,

Tom Beller
Homer Glen resident
09-0319 · Tom Beller
October 29, 2009
I can't afford this rate hike.
09-0319 · Sam Reyes
October 29, 2009
In this time of economic hardship, with thousands of people out of work in this area, is it really a good idea to dump a 30% increase in water service on those struggling families? Unless you're a Wall Street Banker receiving a government bailout, you haven't seen an increase in your compensation. Even our senior citizens have been denied a COLA adjustment this year, instead they're being given a one time $250 pay out. I guess Illinois American is after that money. Surely, some of they're costs need to be rolled up into their new rate, but 30% seems excessive in this economic situation.
09-0319 · David L. Harrington
October 29, 2009
As if my other utilities aren't high enough, now my water bill is going to go up 30.18%. Really?!, 30%. Isn't that a bit of a jump? I've never seen any utility jump as much as 30% over night. Could somebody please tell me why?
09-0319 · Jesse Lehnen
October 29, 2009
AS A SENIOR CITIZEN I FEEL THAT THE 30.18% INCREASE BEING ASKED BY ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER, ALTON AREA, IS TOTALLY OUT OF LINE. RATE ADJUSTMENTS ARE UNDERSTANDABLE, BUT TO THIS DEGREE IS TOTALLY REDICULOUS.
09-0319 · CONNIE SCHAEFER
October 29, 2009
We are having a hard time with our bills. DO-NOT increase ourrates!!!!! PLEASE THANK YOU
09-0319 · Norman Hunt Jr.
October 29, 2009
We ask that you reduce the amount of the water rate increase. Needless to say, the economy is poor. The working people are taking pay cuts, yet the cost of living continues to increase. How much more can you ask from working people when times are hard?
09-0319 · Rick and Linette Gehrs
October 29, 2009
I know that times are tuff, but a rate increase of this kind!! People are just trying to make ends meet and pay their bills on time, but to have a 30% increase is the extreme. My wife and I are on a fixed income, working part time to make our bills. Utilities, medical cost, etc., bad times for all in a ression. I say NO to an increase this large.
09-0319 · Clifford E. Braata
October 29, 2009
My family is opposed to such a steep increase in the water rates. Can another solution be possible. Such as a slower spaced out increase. Our water rates are higher than even the private companies charge other cities. Dolores Scholl
09-0319 · Dolores Scholl
October 29, 2009
In May 2009 Illinois American Water Company applied for a 30.18% increase to their water rates. I think this is too much of an increase. My husband and I are retired and on a fixed income with no increase in Social Security this year. Water is a commodity we must have not a luxury.
09-0319 · Patricia Teutrine
October 29, 2009
I understand reasonable business cost increases. I do not understand increased costs of 30.18% of the Illinois American Water Company particularly in the economic conditions we are currently enduring. This appears an unreasonably large increase in water rates and I would strongly encourage the ICC to reduce this rate increase.
09-0319 · Moro resident
October 29, 2009
A 30 percent increase in water and sewer rates is outrageous. I cannot attend the Nov.4, 2009 meeting in Wheaton to let my voice be heard, so I am writing this email/comment.
09-0319 · Thomas Deering
October 29, 2009
I would like to comment on the 30.18% proposed increase from Illinios American Water Company. I live in Bunkerhiill, have a wife and three children. We like our children to be clean, with clean clothes. The amount of my water bill now is approximately $60 to $65 dollars per month. This rate hike would raise my water bill about $20 per month. I think it to be rediculous to raise the water 30%. I understand increases sometimes are needed, but for it to be 30% at a time is unacceptable. If every bill I have goes up 30% I can't afford to live. Please, water is the most abundant natural resource we have. How can IAWC justify this increase? The companies that provide services every family must have are taking advantage of the public. Where does it stop?
Sincerely,
Perry Yates
09-0319 · Perry Yates
October 29, 2009
In the middle of an historic recession, Illinois American Water Company asks for a 30% increase in water rates...unbelievable! How on earth do they expect people to afford such an increase? I presume they are asking for an astronomical increase in the hopes they will get something in the middle. In my opinion, no increase is warranted at this time...not until the working men and women of this country are back to work.

Thank you,

Cynthia Hickman
09-0319 · Cynthia Hickman
October 29, 2009
I am very concerned over the proposed increase in water rates of 30%. Unless the company is operating at a loss, I feel given the current state of the economy and cosumers, giving a company approval to increase profit by this margin at this time is inappropriate. Our families budget would be negatively impacted.
09-0319 · Don Brown
October 29, 2009
With the economy in the state it is currently in and so many people out of work this is not the time to be increasing rates.
09-0319 · ANGELA WATKINS
October 29, 2009
I live on a small farm in Godfrey/Foster Townships. I receive my water from Fosterburg Water District. Last month my water bill was $102.86. I am retired and my husband only works a couple of mornings each week to supplement our Social Security. We can't afford the 30.18% rate increase requested by Illinois American Water Company, much less the higher percentage rate that will be passed on to "sale for resale" customers.

Everyone must tighten their belts now...that includes the water company. Please deny this rate increase.

Thank you
Carole Baker
09-0319 · Carole E. Baker
October 28, 2009
I am against the rate increase.
09-0319 · Judy Ford
October 29, 2009
As usual, some utility will request an outrageous price increase. Then the games begin. In the case of Illinois-American Water Company, the increase will be negotiated from the rediculous 30.18% to 15% to 20%, then it will be announced to the world that the citizens have won. As usual, the citizens will be the big loser. It is time for our senators and representatives to stand up and support the citizens. They should do everything in their power to stop any rate increases until the water company's books have been thoroughly audited to see if a rate increase is justified. Then give them an increase equivalent to the Seniors cost of living adjustment.
09-0319 · Richard Brooks
October 29, 2009
Homerglen, IL has one of the highest rates for water in Illinois,at this time.All the surronding towns are considerably lower than our water/sewer rates(some as low as 70% less).Illinois american is implementing a rate increase again that will bring homerglen close to the highest in The country.
Also Illinois american is charging for a lake water charge but is failing to credit the consumer when they mix in well water.We need a decrease"
09-0319 · Walter Fischer
October 29, 2009
I have received notification that Illinois American Water Company is applying for a 30.18% increase to their water rates. This will directly affect the supplier of our water, Fosterburg Water District.

Our water rates are already higher than in Alton, where we lived previously. With the economy such as it is now, how can a company request such a large increase.

Please consider the people, like my husband and I, who will be affected by this large increase. Fosterburg Water District will surely have to raise their costs as well.

Please do not approve this increase to American Water Company.

Thank you.
09-0319 · Brenda Sackman
October 29, 2009
To Whom It May Concern:

My opinion on this issue is that this is not the time for a big corporation to be raising costs at an increase of 30.18%. What is the reason for the increase? As a consumer I should have more options than one company to do business with and I do not. We have one big corporate monopoly that runs the water market; then on-top of this we have to buy our water at sale/resale price because we choose to live outside of town. I run two small businesses and as much as I would like an increase in my pay or to raise my price to cover operations at this time (with the economy the way it is) I as well as my family must make do with what we have! If I were to raise my cost by this much, my customers would be able to have a choice to stay with me or take their business elsewhere. In this situation we do not get this choice. What a shame for us as the consumer - what a plus for them as the corporate monopoly. You can't raise prices in such a manner that it affects your customer’s monthly budget or bottom line so much that they can't afford even the monopolies product. Corporations need to understand like small business understands maybe you don't get a pay raise, fancy car, new furniture or vacation this year - but you do what right for your customer and especially in hard times you help not harm.

I say no to an increase. I hope others will do the same.

Sara Miller
09-0319 · Josh & Sara Miller
October 29, 2009
While I can understand some increase, 30% seems like a lot for a permanent increase.
09-0319 · patrick MccAnn
October 29, 2009
My thoughts would be that in these severe times that an increase in water would not be a good thing we are all having to survive on no increase in our pay and everybody wanting an increase in all products that keep us alive and surviving ,food, gas,taxes,health insurance,things that keep us Americans up and doing. thanks Lois opel
09-0319 · Mrs. Paul Opel
October 29, 2009
THE IDEA OF RAISING THE RATES FOR THE WATER AND SEWER CHARGES IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS. WE PAY MORE MONEY FOR OUR WATER THAT ANYBODY ELSE I KNOW. IF THIS INCREASED IS PASSED, I WILL DEFINITELY HAVE TO THINK ABOUT MOVING OUT OF HOMER GLEN AND INTO AN AREA WHERE THE WATER IS CHEAPER. IN THESE TOUGH ECONOMICAL TIMES ASKING FOR AN INCREASE IS BEYOND MY COMPREHENSION.
09-0319 · SUSAN LONERGAN
October 29, 2009
I am commenting on this increase by the Illinois Water Company of Alton. We get our water through Fosterburg Water District, and we have been informed that Ill. American Water Co. is planning a 30.18% increase.

I protest this increase.

First, this is a larger increase than IWC is planning for their own customers.I don't understand the additional increase.

Second, the rate of inflation does not warrant this kind of increase. Even Social Security recipients are not receiving a COLA because inflation is so low.

Third, this large increase will direly affect senior citizens, who live on a fixed income.

I protest this increase and ask you to deny it.

Thank you for your consideration.
09-0319 · Julia Ann Fleenor
October 29, 2009
Please do not raise rates. explore ways to hold down your cost . Now is not the time to raise rates! Why 30.18%. This looks like you are giging us. please DONT RAISE RATES!
09-0319 · Greg Tate
October 29, 2009
We strongly oppose the proposed rate increase by Illinois American Water Company. Therefore, we
are asking the commission not to grant the rate increase requested.
09-0319 · Sharon & Dan Manns
October 29, 2009
In this time of severe recession, it is incumbent upon our state regulatory agencies to work together to keep consumer costs down. It is my opinion that asking for a 30 percent plus rate increase is unconscionable on the part of the Illinois American Water Company. In this period of extremely low inflation, I would not expect general rates to increase so much. Remember, Social Security recipients are not getting any increase in their COLA. I personally will not be seeing a raise in my income this year. Please, as our representatives, do your due dilligence in holding down increases in important consumer costs like utilities to a reasonable amount. Many in Illinois are already suffering from the huge Ameren UE increases in electricity delivery. I am also contacting Sen. Haines and Rep. Beiser to oppose this proposed water rate increase.

thank you.
09-0319 · dennis franz
October 29, 2009
A modest increase is understandable but 30% on top of the 65.00 average water bill through fosterburg water which will see the increase is way to much. do not approve the increase
09-0319 · Nick Fencel
October 29, 2009
I wish to make a formal complaint about case number 09-0319. Our sole source of water is the Illinois American Water Company purchased from Alton for the Fosterburg Water Dist. Since we are senoir citizens, a rate increase of 30.18% is astronomical amount. We are currently paying close to $50.00 a month now for two people with very little laundry and showering every other day. With a down economy, the rate hike is rediculous for all users. I made a call to inquire about the rationale behind the rate hike and was told by the gentleman," I don't know, I haven't read it." With that type of answer I question the vality of the necessity of the extremely high rate hike. Please don't raise the rates.
09-0319 · Shirley Bentley
October 29, 2009
To Whom It May Concern:
With the economic conditions the way they are it is very difficult for individuals to make ends meet, especially those who are already on fixed incomes and have lost benefits due to mismanagment of of corporations (i.e. GM for example). My mother is one who is on a fixed income and has to watch her spending very closely. As a widowed-spouse of a retired GM she has recently had a decrease in pension funds and as well as lost some medical benefits. To pick up medical benefits is to pay out of pocket and take from another area. Proposed increase of such nature mentioned in your letter is a real concern. Please consider my coments on her behalf and the behalf of all those who live on a fixed budget.
R. L. Addington, (daughter,POA)
(765) 646-6465
For: Estella M. Wood
8118 Moulton Road
Bunker Hill, IL 62014
09-0319 · Rebecca L. Addington on behalf of Estella M. Wood
October 29, 2009
We are in the business of precasting products for environmental improvement. Water is one of the necessary components of concrete and we use it by the hundreds of gallons each day. Any increase in the cost of water must be passed on to the contractor who in turn must pass it along to the owner. In almost every case the owner is a public body. This means that the tax-paying public will eventually pay for any such increase twice - once in their own water bill and again in their tax bill. As a businessman I understand that even in such times as these costs can increase and must be payed for, but such a gross increase simply is not justified. In our case we estimate our increase will be in the order of fifty percent from Fosterburg Water District, which is a captive customer of Illinois American Water Company. Please oppose this increase. Thank you,

Jack McCann
McCann Environmental Products, Inc.
Dorsey, IL
09-0319 · Jack McCann
October 27, 2009
please vote against the rate increase for Illinois American Water Co.
09-0319 · Jerome Hall
October 27, 2009
I am against the rate increase for Illinois American Water Co.
09-0319 · Thelma Luster
October 27, 2009
everything is going up so high and cannot afford it any longer. we are on social security and jsut cannot make ends meet. please say no to rate increase
09-0319 · Edward Eatmon
October 27, 2009
I oppose any rate increase especailly the 30% the company is requesting.
09-0319 · Wilbur Helmkamp
October 29, 2009
Why would you be allowing an increase in our water bill with so many people on a fixed income and even more out of work? We live in Moro and our bill will go up over 30% do you honestly think this is a wise choice? If I were you I would vote on this bill with a conscious because the people that voted you in office can vote you out.
09-0319 · SHERYL SCHMIDT
October 29, 2009
I understand that every company has increases in expenses, such as wages, transportation costs, materials and outside labor. It is not unreasonable that the Illinois-American Water Company asks for a rate increase to cover these increases.

However, in times of economic hardships such as the current times, it is wholly unreasonable to request a 30+% increase!!! What are they thinking???

As the past several years have consistently seen inflation rates of around 3%, I would suggest that a 6-7% increase would not be out of line, as there has been some time since the last increase.

I would request that the Illinois Commerce Commission give due and reasonable consideration to this request, limiting it to the above mentioned 6-7%....we are on hard times and everyone, including the utility companies, need to share in the responsibility to keep costs in line and eliminate unnecessary spending.

Respectfully,

David L. Herzog, Ph.D.
09-0319 · David L. Herzog, Ph.D.
October 29, 2009
We reside in the Fosterburg Water District and have been notified of a possible 30.18% increase in rates requested by American Water Company. . We are listed under resale customers which may mean an even higher increase for us. It seems as if The American Water Company is trying to keep up with Illinois government in the size of the requested increase. Why 30.18%? How do they justify this sizable increase? What is their reasoning? We already paid a sizable amount of money to have "city" water put in to our rural property. If that increase takes effect we do have an alternative to go back to using just our cistern. I wonder how many other people will do that? How many people will not have the money to pay their bills because they are strapped already in this economy? An increase may be needed, but lets not be so greedy. Check your company from top management on down to see if there are cuts to be made before you start punishing your "captive" customers. You need to take a fresh look at the demographics you are serving such as low income families, fixed incomes, unemployment etc. Thank you.
09-0319 · Karon Ismari
October 29, 2009
I have recieved notice that Illinois American Water Company wants to increase the water rates by 30.18%. With the prices of all other things going up, I can not see how anyone can afrord this much of an increase. I ask you to take in concideration the people that this increase will affect and not let them have this much of an increase. I know that they need to pay for things also. but its not like people that use this water service has a choice of who they use, unless of course they move, out of one of their many cities of service.
09-0319 · Mr. Frank Gombos
October 29, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois. Please do not approve this rate increase! thank you.
09-0319 · Rosemary niemiec
October 29, 2009
We are very unhappy about a pending price increase. We are already paying exorbitant rates (which were just increased by 5%).

We are Senior Citizens on a fixed income and I think $111.00 bills per month are out of sight. Plus, although we pay for a local sewer charge within the water bill, we also have to pay separate county sewer bills per month of around $40.00.

We shudder to think of a possible 30% increase.
09-0319 · Richard and Patricia Cameron
October 29, 2009
Our water bills is higher than everyone else already. We are trying are best to make it in today economy. Now is not the time to be raising utilities.
09-0319 · Robert J Knight
October 29, 2009
I do not get a 30.18% bump in my salary to cover these additional expenses. I think a rate increase in these bad economic times is a slap in the face. I think greed plays into this ridicules rate increase request by American Water Company (Alton). Please take care of the people in this area and DO NOT allow this increase. We have people on fixed income that just can not take another slap in the face! When will the insanity stop that is caused by big company greed?
09-0319 · Richard Tolleson
October 29, 2009
With unemployment as it is, and our poor economy, it seems hardly the time to ask for another rate increase. Historically, when a rate increase is granted, the customer, in this case, Fosterburg Water District, gets their rate increased more than the increase granted. They accordingly raise their rates to the user, the home owner. This could rais our monthly cost by 40-50%. I get charged normally,the same rate monthly, even though I may be on vacation for that month. Let's not be more unfair to the homeowner by giving huge rate increases.
09-0319 · Richard L Largen
October 29, 2009
As a Fosterburg Water customer, I am requesting that you reject the 30.18% increase that Illinois American Water Company has requested. IL American Water Co. is the sole supplier to Fosterburg Water and any rate increase is passed on to me, the consumer. They just received a 16.17% rate increase last December. It is outrageous that my water bill is more than 20% of my total utility expense (electric, gas and water). Times are hard for everyone and I'm sure I speak for all of Fosterburg Water consumers when I ask you to give this rate increase careful consideration.

Thank you.
09-0319 · Joanne Adams
October 26, 2009
I do understand the need for a modest rate increase to keep up with increased maintenance and operating costs. However, a 30.18% increase is unconscionable to those of us, who are on fixed incomes !

I will be sending my Legislative Representative a letter urging him to intervene on behalf of the citizens of Foster Township and not let this exorbitant rate increase happen.
09-0319 · Ron Price
October 26, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois................... absoutly pathetic
09-0319 · Kyle Keasling
October 26, 2009
WITH THE ECONOMY TODAY IT IS TOUGH ENOUGH TO MAKE THE AVERAGE WATER BILL. BY RAISING OUR BILL 30.18% IS OUT OF LINE. OUR WAGES ARE NOT RAISING, BUT OUR BILLS ARE. I AM ASKING YOU TO NOT DO THIS .
THANK YOU
09-0319 · DAVID AND CATHY CLENDENNY
October 26, 2009
I received a letter from the Fosterburg Water Company explaining the proposed rate increase the Illinois American Water Company was wanting to make. This 30.18% increase is in my mind a bit extreme. With the unemployment in our area, this increase would be a hardship on a lot of people for something people must have. I would ask that you not approve such a large increase.
Thank you.
09-0319 · Virginia Wieseman
October 26, 2009
I am on a fixed income and don't have room for anymore increases in my utility bill. what they are asking for seems like a lot.
09-0319 · Charles Little
October 26, 2009
cust is against the proposed 30 % increase by Illinois-American Water Co
09-0319 · William Vaughn
October 26, 2009
IL American Water Co. is asking for an increase in excess of 30% which will affect all customers who use their water .... my water comes from them through the Fosterburg Water District. I am a widow and live alone and ask for your help to keep my monthly living expenses down. I receive NO raise in income each year and in fact, in 1910 my social security income will be reduced.
Pleae consider all facts and take into consideration the economy and financial problems facing the public currently and for some unforeseeable future. Thank you
09-0319 · Judith Myers
October 26, 2009
I ask of the commission not to grant the rate increase requested.The cost of the water here is already absolutely ridiculous as it is.The cost of delivery in combination with a rate increase is too much for a lot of people including myself to handle.The other utility companies are already gouging us as it is,please do not allow the basic necessity of water put us over the edge.Thank you.
09-0319 · Matthew Clark
October 26, 2009
As a customer of Fosterburg Water District, the price we are charged for water is higher since we are "sale for resale" customers. Our monthly bill averages $45.00 for a family of 2. This is outrageous already. If the price increase is approved, we would experience a higher than 30.18% increase as a resale customer. With the increase in all other consumer products, this is just one more way for a large company to make more money on the backs of the consumers. I oppose the rate increase for Illinois-American Water Company.
09-0319 · Sue Dugan
October 26, 2009
The economy is still bad, workers are still beinSg laid off and many have run out of unemployment, lost their home or both. Now AW wants to raise rates 30.18%. This seems ridiculous given the state of the economy and loss of income.

Stop hurting the american people, many can't pay all their bills now.

What is AW going to do with this HUGE increase but there isn't anyone able to pay their water bill?
09-0319 · Rhonda Smith
October 26, 2009
I don't believe that there should be increase in water and sewer rates in our town. The rates that we are paying now are already too high. Everything is going up except our pays . Pretty soon we will have to move since we can't afford anything. We don't waste our water just for anything but only for necessary stuff. Someone is abusing it but not us, we live in 55 and over community and we are charged for water in our monthly assesments. It is not fair for those fees to go up.
09-0319 · Agnes Platek
October 26, 2009
I am strongly opposed to Illinois American's proposed rate hikes. It is unconscionable that in todays economy they would propose a rate hike. This on top of the fact that Homer Glen's rates are already way too high and amongst the highest in the state. The cost of living in Illinois is already out of control and if these rate hikes are approved, it will only prove to be another blow to the states economy and the quality of life for people of Illinois. Enough is enough! Send a message to Illinois American to 'find another way' instead of passing the buck to the overtaxed consumers. Thank you.
09-0319 · Larry Schlink
October 23, 2009
My wife and I pay $64.40 a month for 4,000 gals of water and sewer we think this is outrageous. We just were notified of another water rate increase as of Oct 1. We reside in Mt Prospect and pay about twice as much as the residence who live south us. For the same water. We experience the highest rates in the northwest suburbs. We strongly beleive American Water Company should be denied any rate increases. All the problems they are having should be considered normal maintenance. The same as I have to maintain my home.

Thank You

Edwin & joan Malszewski
09-0319 · Edwin Malszewski
October 22, 2009
I've read many of the public comments regarding this case that are posted on the ICC website. While I hope you've heard the emotional appeals connected with this case, I also realize that the ICC can not make a ruling on that basis.

That IAW's rates are probably already the highest in the state is a fact. That many residential and commercial customers consider their bills too high is a fact. It's also a fact that any increase will have a negative impact on the customers served.

I attended the hearing in Homer Glen on 10/19 and was impressed with the factual research presented as well as the many discrepancies that were pointed out between the rate case filing and the documentation previously provided to the Homer Glen Sewer and Water Task Force by IAW. The differences in the cost of equipment and labor is striking.

There seem, though, to be some longer term issues that have been allowed to grow to a problem of this proportion. These issues go back a few years and are based on the fact that IAW is made up of a number of small private water and sewer utilities acquired over time by IAW and its predecessors.

* Has an audit of those acquisition transactions, and the costs then rolled into the rate base, ever been ordered or conducted by the ICC?
* It would seem that some of the "improvements" undertaken by IAW are questionable at best. This would include the Bedford Park Transmission Line and expansion of the treatment facilities in Homer Glen, among others. The sewer treatment facilities are 150% over capacity and the IAW rates are so high that it is unlikely that any other community will ever agree to tap into the Bedford Line. Why are the rate payers burdened with these management mistakes? Where is the the responsibility of IAW shareholders?
* Is a private utility that serves small non contiguous systems really the best business model when efficient cost is a consideration?

I am in favor of pursuing eminent domain to condemn the infrastructure and obtain control of the IAW distribution system. I'm sure that in order for this to occur, an independent valuation would need to be conducted with a court ordered settlement. The ICC has an opportunity to serve its constituents in this case by ordering a comprehensive audit of all IAW infrastructure valuations, capital improvement proposals, operating processes, billing and collection procedures etc. This audit could then serve as the basis for determining the costs that should be included, as well as excluded, from the rate base prior to any ruling.
09-0319 · Robert Ryan
October 22, 2009
Track#: 3108-2009

I.A.W. is requesting a 30% increase in our water and 50% increase in our waste water services. Please DO NOT allow them this increase. Our rates are already the highest in our area. This new increase will make our rates 3 times the amount of neighboring communities. They also have a charge "FIRE PROTECTION CHARGE" that none of the money goes to the fire department. At the last community meeting they could not explain where this money goes!! PLEASE VOTE NO TO THE INCREASE!!!!!
09-0319 · Dean Lardner
October 22, 2009
We have never complained before, but the situation with the Illinois American Water (IAW) proposed rates have just gone too far.

How is it possible that our neighbors to the East (Orland Park) pay only $3.44 per 8,000 gal of water as compared to our rate (Homer Glen) of $10.01 for the same amount of water. These are the current rates. Now IAW is asking to increase this rate to $12.63 for the same amount of water. That is an increase of 26% or it would be 367% more than that of our neighbors to the East (Orland Park).

IAW is also asking for an increase on the sewer rates from $6.57 to $9.67. That is an increase of 47%.

I would not be surprised if we were already paying the heighest rates in the state.

We believe that IAW needs to be investigated. What are they doing with the money that they have been collecting? Giving themselves big raises? Or is there some kind of criminal mismanagement?

Unfortunately, they have the "Monopoly" on our water supply. They are the only "game" in town so we can't discontinue the service.

We love this area and have been living here since 1979, and would like to continue living in Homer Glen. Please make IAW accountable.

Thank You
Matt & Barb Peksa

09-0319 · Matthew Peksa
October 21, 2009
I am a new resident of Orland Hills, Illinois. The water provider, Illinois American, is proposing a large rate increase to the rates charged for water usage. I find this to be troubling as the current rates are noticably higher than the surrounding communities. The increase had been reported to be for the expansion of the infrastructure. I would like the ICC to perform some investigation on the financial stability of Illinois American and their overall operations. Instead of automatically increasing the rates, Illinois American should look to cut costs and retain their profits for capital improvements.
09-0319 · Rob Siegel
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in our state. This company is crazy and gouging us. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates Ã¢?? not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy.
09-0319 · Conni Treantafeles
October 21, 2009
I DON'T THINK A RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN IS APPROPRIATE. I'M ON A FIXED INCOME AND I'M BARELY MAKING IT NOW.
09-0319 · MARY MCCLURE
October 21, 2009
I am vitally concerned with the rate hike in sewer and water rates that Illinois American Water has proposed. Given the current lack of activity in new construction I question the necessity of expansion of water treatment facilities. It is reprehensible that existing customers are expected to foot the bill for expansion. My monthly bill, despite modest water usage, remains at approximately $100 per month, of which nearly half is sewer fees. Utility companies are pricing my family out of a home we have lived in for over 30 years. While customers of IAWC are suffering the effects of a desperate economy and expected to tighten our belts, perhaps the German-owned company should do the same and search for cost-cutting solutions, rather than simply demanding more money. More efficient management of existing facilities and the business itself would be a good place to begin.
09-0319 · Darcy L. Trudelle
October 21, 2009
I have lived in Homer Glen since 2001 and the water bills that I pay are unbelievable. Prior to moving to Homer Glen, I lived in Palos Hills where I paid an average water bill of $35 every two months. Today, I pay an average of $100 every month during winter and $200 per month in the summer. I talk to residents living in Orland Park which is an adjacent community and their water bills are no where near the amount of money we pay for similar size homes and families. So I do not understand why I am paying over one hundred dollars a month living in Homer Glen. Now the proposal is to raise rates...the cost of living is down, jobs are down yet rates are going up. Does this make sense? Most companies (including the one I work for) have a salary freeze. Even the social security bureau is not raising rates over the next couple of years. So how is it that IAW is raising rates? If there is anything that can be done to not only stop the rate increase but also look for ways to decrease our water bills to be consistent with adjacent communities (Orland Park, Palos Hills)? Anything that can be done would be greatly appreciated by myself as well as other Homer Glen residents. Thank you.
09-0319 · Claudia Aguirre
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. My last bill was for $202.08 for one month without the use of a sprinkler system.
$108.33 of the bill is what I was charged before any water was even used. How can customers be expected to afford to pay this every month. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates, not increased rates. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Beth Denler
October 21, 2009
I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed rate increase for water and sewer services in Homer Glen. The rates are already too high. To raise the rates even more, will increase the economic hardship so many of our citizens are already facing. The high price for these necessities is unfair and I hope you will consider our opinions before making any decision to raise the rates. Thank you
09-0319 · Mary Lyons
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

The idea of rising rates is ridiculous. We are paying astronomical rates for water and the fact that we pay more for sewer is ridiculous. Raising these rates as proposed is criminal. Action must be taken. When people cannot afford WATER, something must be done.
09-0319 · William & Rachel Chorley
October 21, 2009
When I first moved to Homer Glen..then Lockport..., my water bill was the least expensive of all my utilities. It has now the highest utility I have on a yearly basis and Illinois Water want to raise rates even higher. Don't understand why the cost of water is sky rocketing, The natural commodity is free,,and Chicago area has an abundant supply,call Lake Michigan . MY water bill is over 100.00 per moth and going up I feel someone is taking advantage of the water supply.
09-0319 · Howard Gradle
October 21, 2009
Homer Glen currently pays one of the highest water rates in Illinois, and now the Illinois American WaterCompany wants to increase our water rates by 30% and sewer rates by 50%. To say that I'm opposed to these increases would be putting it mildly. In todays' economy ( high unemployment and house construction down quite noticeably), expnsion should not be aggressive and what expansionn is done should be paid for by the new development not existing customers. Finding water leaks, water being stolen and maintenance should be the price of doing business, not performed like a goverment entity - just passing on the cost.
09-0319 · Richard T Sienkiewicz
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the increase in water and sewer rates that IAW is requesting. Our rates in Homer Glen are among the highest water rates, if not the highest, in Illinois. My water bill averages $140.00 a month for a family of four which is outrageous. The increase that IAW is asking for will increase my bill close to $200 a month. Water is a necessity. This increase will be hard on families especially in our area and also hard on our home values. Who would want to purchase a home with a $200 or more per month water bill? Please do not allow this to happen.
09-0319 · Diane Wagner
October 21, 2009
I strongly OPPOSE the rate increases being proposed by IAWC. Since customers have no freedom of choice, IAWC should be required to implement cost-savings measures before they ask for any rate increases. The rates they charge are already among the highest in the state. This is having a detrimental effect on the Homer Glen community, Illinois residents, businesses, and non-profits already struggling in this difficult economy. The current rates are having a negative effect on property values, local schools, and economic development.

The company has shown little interest in controlling costs and protecting ratepayers from inefficient, wasteful management of a vital natural resource. Now is not the time to look at current ratepayers to pay for expansion plans.

I implore the ICC to protect the residents, Illinois businesses, and our state's limited natural resources by sending a STRONG message to IAWC. We need the ICC to ensure the adequate, efficient, reliable, safe and least-cost availability of sewer and water service. The Say NO to requests for rate increases.

Laurel Ward
Homer Glen
09-0319 · Laurel Ward
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · E. Picciolini
October 21, 2009
I strongly object to the water rates in Homer Glen, I do not use a lot of water, just normal water use, my last water bill was $150.00. The water is not what costs, it's the sewer costs, taxes, etc. I love Homer Glen, but these water bills are atrocious, something needs to be done, Homer Glen has the highest rates in all of the suburbs.
09-0319 · Dawn Guerrero
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I currently pay over $100.00 for this water(GOLD). My family does it part now to conserve water! When are we going to say enough is enough!
09-0319 · Dave Schwenn
October 21, 2009
The water rate is high already. I myself, as everyone else I know are already fustrated with the high prices as it is. We can barley afford to pay a monthly water bill of a 100 dollars or more and thats just an average bill.

The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water has negative consequences for us all. Our available financial resources, economic growth and our property values are impacted by high and unpredictable water/sewer rates.
09-0319 · Carrie Ruff
October 21, 2009
Stop the wild unpredictable tariff and rate increases on our sewer and water. We already pay the highest rates in the country on sewer and water. As a home owner the water bill is higher than that of ComEd and Nicor! Stop this.
09-0319 · Mark Wolfrum
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state and are absolutely ridiculous. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases.

I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

09-0319 · Laura Barber
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increase by ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER! As a family of four young children and due to the economic situation it is insane as to the increase for a BASIC necessity!
Why are we the highest in the area for a basic use of water? Surrounding areas are not nearly as high and they use Illinois American Water. Put an end to this outrageous rate increase now!
09-0319 · Sharon MacNab
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Jana Spencer
October 21, 2009
Water is ridiculouis in Homer Glen and now they want to raise it?? We can barely struggle with what we pay and we are very conservative on water usuage. We pay such high rates in Ilinois, I think the highest in the state and they want to raise them even higher. Surrounding neighborhoods pay a lot less. That is not fair. I want a rate decrease to be comprable to surronding neigborhoods, and not double to almost triple that! Please help us.
09-0319 · Theresa Demaso
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Scott M. Spencer
October 21, 2009
Be advised that I strongly oppose the propsed rate increases by Il American Water Co. I am a senior citizen on a fixed income and find it very unfair that the water rates in Homer Glen are higher than in any surounding communities and the highest in Illinois. Today's economy calls for reduced rates - NOT INCREASES. I also opose that business expansion be paid by existing customers rather than by new development. Because of the present building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants makes one wonder. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throught the state of Illinois.
09-0319 · Marcella Meister
October 21, 2009
As a resident of Homer Glen, I oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. Our rates are already among the highest in Illinois. At this time, cost saving measures should be implemented immediatly and should be reflected in reduced rates – not in increased rates!!!

I am also opposed to business expansion being paid for by existing IAW customers rather than customers in areas of new development. In view of the slow building market, expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these increased rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects business growth, business retention, and propety values throughout Illinois.

09-0319 · Karen Allen
October 21, 2009
I am extremely disturbed at the thought of another water rate increase being added to what is already one of the highest, if not the highest in the state for Homer Glen residents. I believe the rate is unjustified and see no value being brought in from our water provider. In addition to the economic challenges we are facing and tight budgets all homeowners face, we are risking losing value in our homes as these rates push home buyers to look elsewhere. This will also impact potential businesses to reconsider Homer Glen which already has established a reputation for extreme high water rates. This rate increase is not fair and should not be approved.
09-0319 · Ted Murawski
October 21, 2009
I believe this company is continually charging an exhorbitant amount for their water services in an unjustified matter. The case and point can be found by looking at surrounding communities charges. Exact numbers can be discussed but really can only be compared with hard facts of exact water bills. They made repairs and upgrades to their equipment and in turn want to raise our rates more. Aren't they already charging us accordingly in their rates? In the accounting cycle, it is all about accumulated depreciation. What will be their next issue to raise the rates? Back in the late 1700's we had practices like this. I believe they were called Stamp Tax, Tea Tax, and others. Do we need to start dumping tea into our drinking water? Is a revolutionary War not to far off in our community?
09-0319 · James Jacob
October 21, 2009
Water rates in Homer Glen are way out of line. We are being gauged compared to neighboring suburbs who have the same quality and service. The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water is negatively impacting the value of our homes and our personal finances. The current water rates are enough to make me consider moving from this otherwise lovely community. No company should be allowed to take advantage of its clients. It's a crime.
09-0319 · Judy Michalak
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

I am in business and realize that cost increases occur, but I try everything possible to mitigate them and not just pass on to my customers. Unfortunately, my customers can choose another supplier and we homeowners are not able to do so.
09-0319 · Marshall Dennis Dempsey
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development.
09-0319 · Andrew Panelli
October 21, 2009
Please do not allow a rate hike
09-0319 · Lori Sullivan
October 21, 2009
Illinois American Water (IAW) is creating a "Poverty Zone" in Homer Glen. Those residents that can afford to move have already done so to escape the irrational rate increases by IAW. Residents I know can't afford to maintain their lawns and landscaping during summer months, which leads to declining market value and curb appeal of their homes, mine included, thus the poverty look! We, the residents, continue to be held hostage by foreign owned company with little regard for this country or its residents.
The ICC continues to look out for the foreign, non-American, interests of ICC with little regard for the residents of the counties and towns of Illinois under the domaIn of IAW. Just makes you wonder what back-room politics and money changes hands between the ICC members and IAW?
09-0319 · R. Turner
October 21, 2009
I can't believe that our water bill could be increased AGAIN. What we pay for water and sewer is higher than my gas or electric. We would have been better off without bringing in lake Michicagan water. It is ridiculous. I know people who wil not even consider buying in Homer because of the water bills. We may all be forced out of Homer because no one will be able to afford the water.
09-0319 · Denise Wahl
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company.
Our rates are currently among the highest in the state. Tax payers have been burdened into the point of bankruptcy!. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Nicole Samardzija
October 21, 2009
The rates in effect now are exorbitant as it is and supply this company with enough revenue to cover their operating expenses and enough surplus to cover projects that will not benefit we consumers. Water is life and is not something that we must do without because of consistent rate requests by this company. Let them use their surpluses to cover these questionable projects or reduce their expenses to do so. They might start by using any bonuses and incentives to their staff to cover any questionable projects. They should not be permitted to request rate increases just because they want them! We live in a senior community where we pay our own utility bills. Electricity and natural gas rates have gone down but water rates have gone up repeatedly without any direct benefit to us. We live on Social Security benefits and we cannot ask them for more income anytime we want it. Since we are not getting any cost of living adjustments this year, any public utility increases create a burden on us. You at the ICC should do your duty and follow the wishes of the citizenry and reject this unnecessary and arbitrary rate request. Please hear the people and not the pleadings of a company which comes to our wallets anytime they wish. Thank you, Leon Grunow
09-0319 · Leon Grunow
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

We are having a hard enough time as it is paying our bills in this economy and this will make it even more difficult for us to put food on the table for our children and clothes on their back. These increases NEED to stop!
09-0319 · JENNIFER VAGENA
October 21, 2009
I would like to express my displeasure with the proposed rate hike. 30 and 50 % ...you're kidding, right. Didn't we just have a rate increase? I'm pretty sure I am getting the same water, why another increase? Why are the Homer Glen rates one of the hightest in Illinois? My water bill is 130.00 a month, with the proposed increase I'll be close to 180-190 a month. Why are our bills so much higher than the surrounding communities? I used to live in Chicago where my water bill was 235.00 for the year, Homer Glen is just getting city water, right?
09-0319 · Dave Freeman
October 21, 2009
I would like to live in Homer Glen to be near my son and his family. I have seen houses that I would consider purchasing but due to the current utility rates charged by the American-Illinois Water Company it is unrealistic that I consider the move. I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. The American Illinois Water Company should be investigated to determine if it is missmanagement or just plain greed that is behind the proposed rate increase. To be sure higher rates for Homer Glen will effectively drive a spike into the heart of a potentially outstanding Illinois community. A community that I would love to be a part of but not until common sense prevails and the city takes over the water supply system and frees the current residents from the water monolopy that currently serves the Homer Glen. Once this issue is resolved I will have confidence that when I purchase my Homer Glen home its value will not drop due to unrealistic water and sewer bills and not be sellable in the future..
09-0319 · Thomas Ringelsten Sr
October 21, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are one of the highest in the State of Illinois. My household has seen our water bills increase from $75.00 per month to over $200 per month in a ten-year time span. When I compare Homer Glen water bills to surrounding towns, I cannot believe how unbelievably expensive our water is. Something has to change!

In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates--not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and and especially our home values.

Ruth Renkor
09-0319 · Ruth Renkor
October 21, 2009
I oppose the request for a rate increase by Illinois American Water. Our rates are currently among the highest in Illinois and Illinois American does not appear to have taken any steps to reduce our rates. It appears to me that they have no incentive to take any steps toward lowering rates since residents have no other choice for water in our area. At what point does this pattern of spend and recapture end? If they are allowed to spend what they choose on infrastructure then bill residents, where are the checks and balances? Please deny their request and tell their shareholders to pay for these improvements. Does the ICC control what they distribute to their shareholders?
Thank you,
Tom
09-0319 · Tom Polke
October 16, 2009
My husband and I are very upset to hear that once again Illinois American Water is asking for a rate increase. When we moved to the Homer Glen area in 1993, we knew our rates from our previous residence would increase. Since 1993, our rates have tripled. Granted, IAW has not owed the lines since 1993 but tripling water rates is hard to swallow no matter who owed the lines. The largest increases that have taken place since 1993 have been with IAW. I currently pay on the average of $120-$150 per month, if I dont water my landscaping and garden, fill my pool or do excessive laundry. My neighbor who is retired and on a fixed income, with major water economy cannot keep their water bills under $100. Just using water for necessity's cost our family of four over $100 a month and now they are asking for us to spend upwards to 50% more?
In today's ecomony, is it really necessary to make expansions and increase rates for something that may or may not be needed? We all have to budget crunch in the difficult economic times and I think IAW should lead by example and find ways to cut their budgets, not increase them.
Another case in point is the resale value of our homes in the IAW area. If I were a buyer in today's economy and I had a choice of a home in the Orland area that has reasonable water rates and one in Homer Glen with high water rates, guess which one I would consider?
If I was able to revote on whether Homer Glen should have Chicago water, I would vote no and go back to the well water. It may not have been cleaner but at least it was cheaper.
09-0319 · Deborah L. Finnegan
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Nicholas Cozzolino
October 16, 2009
Hello,

I would like to express my oppostion to allowing Illiniois-American Water Company to increase their rates.

It is my understanding that this rate increase is for facility expansion. I believe that current consumers should not have to face even-increasing water rates to fund expansion for future customers.

Thank you
09-0319 · Kurt J Heinz
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. Excessive rates negatively affect business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Marie Marinko
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

Tim Tkach
09-0319 · Tim Tkach
October 16, 2009
Compare our current and proposed water bill to your own and decide if Ilinois American Water is being fair.

I have been unable to find a consumer of any other water/sewer provider that pays more for services than we do as Illinois American Water customers in Homer Glen. Please do not burden us with additional costs.

Please look at the detail of our billing. Please look at all the entities profiting from our water supply. Please review the public comments provided by the water/sewer provider before lake Michigan water was shipped to us and compare those comments and promises to the current situation.
09-0319 · Frank Ott
October 16, 2009
Track#: 3040-2009

The rising cost of water and sewer need to be controlled. This 30%/50% rate hike is unheard of, especially in our present economy. IAW needs to be held accountable for cutting costs and pork out of their budgets before they turn to the consumer for their financial mishaps.
09-0319 · Juan Alvarez
October 16, 2009
I am very much opposed to the water and sewer rate hike. Right now our water cost more than other communities . The resale value of our homes is effected negatively because of this.
09-0319 · robert pearce
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the water rate increases. When I moved to homer glen 4yrs ago I was told by local officials they were working on lowering the high water bills. It has only gone up since we moved here.
09-0319 · Philip dunlap
October 16, 2009
The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water has negative consequences for us all. Most are out of work, workly 1/2 work weeks, elderly on a tight budget. Our available financial resources, economic growth and our property values are impacted by high and unpredictable water/sewer rates. This area already has a bad view to other surrounding areas due to the especially our water rates. I feel something needs to be done immediately to stop this madness. No other town is excelling in water costs both in delivery and sewage how can Illinois American Water get away with this. As a voter and citizen of the US I believe this is a crime and against our rights!!!!
09-0319 · MARSHELLE SANTORO
October 16, 2009
The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water is hurting us all . Our available financial resources, economic growth and our property values are impacted by high and unpredictable water/sewer rates.
09-0319 · DENNIS HUMBARGER
October 16, 2009
I have lived in the area for over 20 years. I was living here when I had to put salt in the softner
I have always thought your rates were unacceptable. Why do we have to pay sewer rates?

My wife and I have been thinking about retiring and we had wanted to stay in Homer Glen - Dawnwood.
The current rate are over the top and the increase would prevent us from living here after retirment.

I have discussed your rates with others living in Palos and Tinley Park, and people do not believe what we have to pay. My daughter living in Tinley Park pays less for 3 months than we pay for 1 month. They water their lawn but in Dawnwood our grass is watered from our pond.

You have caused our property values to go down, because no one wants to live in Homer and pay your
over-priced rates. Our friend who was a real estate agent told us NOT to buy in Homer becuase of the water rates and taxes, but we not listen. Based on the current and increased rates, we feel that we made a big mistake by buying in Homer. We also feel that we can not afford to stay in Homer.

You should be looking at ways to reduce costs instead fo increasing rates.

I am very disappointed with your service and wonder how we got kidmapped by you.
09-0319 · Walter J Haydock
October 16, 2009
Please enter your comment
The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water has negative consequences for us all. Our available financial resources, economic growth and our property values are impacted by high and unpredictable water/sewer rates. We pay triple what nearby towns are paying.
09-0319 · Andrew Grigus
October 16, 2009
Illinois American is wrong in requesting this rate increase. Our water rates now are out of line and way too high. WE pay $80.00 a month for water for just two people!
Its not the service they want to improve its the profits and in these economic times we are struggling enough while they make their huge profits.
This company is owned by a corporation that operates out of Europe.

This request has to be stopped, now!

John Rosenstein
12700 W. Hank Ct.
Homer Glen, Il. 60491
09-0319 · John Rosenstein
October 16, 2009
We have resided in Homer Glen for 40 plus years and find the proposed increase in water rates by Illinois American Water to be totally outrageous. It is a detriment to property values. Some years ago when Illinois American upgraded our meters; one of their own workers told us that he would never buy a home in Homer Glen as the water rates were way too high. And that was before any of the last two increases. Now they are looking for another increase. Ridiculous! We have been retired for over 18 years and on a fixed income for all that time. We always thought we would be able to retire and stay in our home, but with utilities constantly rising it is becoming a chore. If Illinois American Water wanted to make improvements on the system; they certainly had plenty of time to do it previously with the rates they were charging. Is there no end to their greed? Why are we paying the highest rates in the state? They must be pumping liquid gold through those water lines, but it sure don't look like or taste like that. As a matter of fact, for the past two years I have been noticing that my rubber mats in the sinks are getting a fungus on them. It is not mold or mildew, as that would be removable with bleach. This does not come out no matter what I try and it forces me to throw out rubber mats that are otherwise usable except for the black fungus. I guess that proves that even though we are paying the highest rates in the state, we are not getting the best quality of water. Enough said! I just want you to know we are thoroughly disgusted with the proposed rate increase and are looking for the I.C.C. to block this request. If anything, we have been overcharged for years and should be getting a rate decrease. Please give this your serious attention. We plan on attending the Public Forum on Monday, October 19th.
Sincerely,
Fred and Diane Butalla
09-0319 · Fred & Diane Butalla
October 16, 2009
I would like to complain about the proposed hike in our water bill. We pay an outrageous amount of money for water -- I believe the highest in our state. How can any company, at any time, but now especially, expect people to come up with more money??? This is a recession and frankly I would go back to well water at this rate. This rate, over 25% -- a rate that is so excessive -- will hurt so many people. I moved into the suburb for green grass, larger yards, etc. but at this rate no one can afford to even water their grass!!! I believe the ridiculous cost of our water also prices any of us out of selling our homes. NO ONE WANTS TO MOVE HERE WITH THESE RATES!!! I have been told that some of the increase is to recoup acceptable water loss -- if our lines are new (past few years) were is the water being lost at???? Shouldn't Illinois-American be responsible for finding out where the water is going and charging the appropriate suburb for their faulty piping??? Why does it get tacked on to us?? PLEASE DO NOT LET THIS INCREASE OCCUR -- WE ALREADY PAY MORE THAN OUR FAIR SHARE OF THE BILL!!!!
09-0319 · Cheryl Neylon
October 16, 2009
I feel that the Illinois-American Water Company has been charging us too much for our water already. We have been paying for water for 15 years at this address and it was for the piping to Chicago water that was supposed to be for only 5 years. It has never gone down. It has only continued to go up. If we left the house for a month and no water was used, the fees on the bill alone would be about 50-60 dollars.

They are allowed to get away with whatever they wish and a 36% increase, any increase is ridiculous. They have to improve their piping then it is a cost of doing business. Just like any industry.
09-0319 · Madalyn McLean
October 16, 2009
Recently I was visited at my home by an Illinois American Water Representative. He explained to me that my water was going to be turned off within 24 hours. When I calmly ask, " Why? " He aggresively accused me of stealing water. I simply answered, "What?" He went on to explain that since being constructed 3 years prior, my home never recived a meter, and therefore I was stealing water. To which I quickly responded that there was indeed a meter in my home, and that if anyone was stealing it was Illinois American Water, "honesly," I asked the man, "Who charges over a $100.00 per month for a single family home to have water?" With a quick phone call to his office, the Illinois American Water Representative realized that he was at the wrong house, made a quick and insincere apology, and left.

Something needs to be done about these water rates. I own an eleven unit building in Cook County. There are 22 bathrooms, 4 Kitchens, and 13 Janitor Slop Sinks. This entire building receives a monthly water bill averaging around $45.00. At my house in Homer Glen, it's just My Wife, My 1 year old son, and me. Our monthly water bill averages around $100.00. Isn't water considered a public utility?? Why are the water rates over 10 times what Illinois American is paying the City of Chicago??
09-0319 · Gerald Marchione
October 16, 2009
The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water has negative consequences for us all. Our available financial resources, economic growth and our property values are impacted by high and unpredictable water/sewer rates. This is extremely ridiculous that IAW is asking for ANOTHER RATE INCREASE..we already pay one of the highest rates in the country for water, a necessity of life. Please stop this insanity!!!
09-0319 · Jacqueline Maes
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose these proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. My occupation over the last 36 years has put me in contact with thousands of people from almost every major metropolitan area in the United States. Having lived in Homer the last 30 years and having had to pay the extremely high water rates that have been charged Homer's citizens over these years, I have asked people, that I have come in contact with, what they pay for water and sewer rates. I have yet to find anyone that pays more for these services than the citizens of Homer Glen.
09-0319 · James Lunk Sr.
October 16, 2009
The amount we pay for water and sewer services is unreasonable. I feel we are being held hostage by Illinois American Water Company. The rates charged are at least three times the amount neighboring towns charge their residents.
I realize American Water Company is a publicly traded entity which goal is to make a profit for their investors. The problem is that there is no competition.
09-0319 · Diane Mizsak
October 16, 2009
Illinois Water already charges the highest water rates in this state. In this time where everyone is trying to conserve their money this company has no troble trying to continue to gouge their hapless victems.

Not only do they want these unprecented increases this year, they want to be able to raise the rates 5% per year without any approval.

In the politically connected state of Illinois this comany must really be connected to some high power politicians that allows them to continue to plunder all of the communities they service.

The ICC should wake this company up and let them know the salad days of holding up their customers is over.

Perhaps the ICC should consider forcing Illinois Water to lower their rates to something more comparable to other water suppliers in Illinois.

The VOTERS will be watching the action of the ICC...Do the right thing...Deny the increase.
09-0319 · Ken Holub
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Carla J Piatek
October 16, 2009
Our water rates are already outrageous!! That fact that we already pay in one month what most people pay in three or more months is bad enough. Now this company is trying to take advantage of all of us even further by raising water rates by 30 and 50 percent!!! Is that even legal?!! This sounds like price gouging to me. The economy is bad enough...I didn't even get a raise this year and I have a profession that serves the welfare of children!! How on earth can American Water make such an unreasonable action? If the real estate market was not so bad right now I would be putting my home up for sale and getting away from these superfluous charges!! Something has got to be done...American Water is acting very 'UN- American!!" PLEASE STOP THIS!!
09-0319 · Angela Arrigo-Dunlap
October 16, 2009
I am opposed to the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates we are paying are some ofthe highest in the state. Times are difficult for all of us and efforts to reduce consumer's costs should be sought. New development should pay for expansion. Not the current customers - I already pay enough! With the building market in this economy, expansion of sewer plants does not make good business sense. If these rates are approved, this increase will hurt our local and state economy. It affects local business growth, retention of existing homeowners and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Cathy Miller
October 16, 2009
Are you kidding me???!!!! As though our rates aren't high enough.
I really do not think that American Water Co. is playing fair, why is it that people 4-5 miles from my home, Orland Park, have much lower rates??
Let me give you a specific example, a good frind of mine lives on Cliffside st, Orland Park, his water bill is approximately 30 bucks per month, mine is well over 100. I have resorted to giving my kids showers every 2 days, that's ridiculous!! I take showers at my gym, to conserve water at home.
I really think that actions should be taken against Illinois Water Co. They are taking advantage of the fact that water is a need and they deliver it.

If there is no action taken, Homer Glen will have a large number of extremely upset taxpayers. I've already heard people stating that they should not move near this area due to expensive water and taxes!!
please think about us the taxpayers that are already paying way too much, and put us first for once.

Thank you.

Erika Moreno
708-301-8569
09-0319 · Erika Moreno
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois .

09-0319 · Grzegorz Stronski
October 16, 2009
I definitely oppose the rate increases by the Illinois American Water Company at this time. The rates over the past 3 years are surely uncalled for. These rates are the highest in the area and should be lowered during these hard times. During this slump we should be looking for decreases in rates not more increases. This economy has hit all of us in one way or another and we need to look for ways to help us now. NOT BY INCREASING THE WATER AND SEWER RATES.
09-0319 · maureen grobarek
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

09-0319 · Don Sierzega
October 16, 2009
It is unconscionable to think that Illinois American Water is proposing a water and sewer increase. I have been a Homer Glen resident for the past years and continue to be amazed at home much we pay for water and sewer lines. Its already the highest in the state. Neighboring towns, Naperville, etc. have rates more then half of what we are paying. By having rates to be this high it discourages people from wanting to move into this town. At a time like today, with this economic downturn the last thing we need is a water increase. They should look at themselves to see where they can cut wasted expenses before they start imposing increases on us.
09-0319 · Jeff Spratt
October 16, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. As an example for a family of five our monthly water rate is $120.00 averaged. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

09-0319 · Irene Sierzega
October 15, 2009
i strongly oppose the increase rate fee by illinois american water. We in homer glen, il have one of the highest water rates in the states. So why the need to increase the rates again. Everyone now days is trying to cut corners, but water is a neccessity to all. We limited our water intake and yet we still have outrageous bills. Please , see through the peoples eyes, that live in Homer Glen. We cant afford a rate increase. Thank you
09-0319 · sherry spencer
October 15, 2009
Homer Glen already has the highest water rates in the state and now we're getting a 30% - 50% rate increase? C'mon!
09-0319 · Mike Skly
October 15, 2009
I am opposed to this rate increase. Homer Glen has one of the highest water rates in the state of Illinois. I believe we are currently being over charged by Illinois American Water and an increase to these currently over priced rates is and insult. I was under the understanding that local politicians were working on resolving this price rate issue to the benefit of the residents. The current state of the economy is bad enough. The majority of the people I know has had a reduction of household income, but continue to have our expenses increased. Increasing our water/sewer rates will only harm the economy. Illinois American Water needs to learn to live within their means without increasing the costs to their customers.
09-0319 · Lorie Woody
October 15, 2009
I once again strongly oppose the proposed water/sewer rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are already currently among the highest in the nation. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. In plain language, who the hell would want to move to this area with water bills at $150.00 to $200.00 per month? This will affect our business growth, retention and home values.

I refuse to be required to cover the costs of the poor and insane business agreements IAW made when obtaining lake water from other cities. We are located twenty five miles from the largest fresh water reservoir system in the country and we have to pay near the top in the nation for water? My monthly water bill (every month) is more than my natural gas bill for the month of January.

I do not desire to pay the highest water rates in the country with Lake Michigan in our very own back yards. Period!

Gary Metelak
09-0319 · Gary Metelak
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. We are a family of 5 and our monthly average bill is $175.00, the proposed increase would have a huge impact on our family. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Lynda L. Corrigan
October 15, 2009
We strongly oppose the rate increase by Illinois American Water Co. The rates are very high and supposedly the highest in the state. This economy is really hurting families. There should be cost saving measures not increases. We also do not want new sewer plants which will also increase our rates.My husband is retired and very ill. We can barely pay the taxes in Homer Glen and the thought of more taxes is so upsetting. I don't know how I can continue taking care of my children. Please do not raise prices. Please.Thank you,Brian and Luanne Fahey
09-0319 · Brian and Luanne Fahey
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Dianne M. Yaeger
October 15, 2009
I vehemently oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently one of the highest in the state. I am apalled that neighbors to the east (Orland Park) are paying a third for 3 months of water, what I'm paying for in a month! In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and therefore reflected in reduces rate, not increases. Existing customers should not be paying for the expansion of your business. I strongly oppose this. Given the current building market, aggression expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local (Homer Glen) and state economy. If affects business growth, retention and home values throught Ilinois,
09-0319 · Patti Andrews
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the rate increase for Illinois American Water Company. It is already among the hightest in the state. It is also one of the highest utilites I pay in my home. My current bill is more than double what I paid in another Illinois city. The current economy warrents discounts to maintian its customers not imposing a 30% increase.
09-0319 · Joan Giroux
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

The company should prove the rate is necessary and if it is why are other towns not charging such exorbitant rates. They pulled a fast one by changing our meters and overcharging homer Glen customers 3 times our normal rate until the homeowners complained and their was no justification for why the meters indicating excessive usage. After complaints the meters seemed to register the correct usage amounts. Interesting???
09-0319 · john Michalik
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose an increase to our water and sewer rates.
09-0319 · j. polke
October 15, 2009
We are overwelmingly opposed to a water and sewer increase proposed by Illinois-American Water Company. Water is an essential service just like any other utility in fact it is a life-sustaining essential service. The Illinois-American Water Company has done a terrible job attempting to keep their costs down. We are not talking about cable tv or internet (luxuries not necessities), even during the summer we can choose not to use our airconditioner to keep our rates lower, but we can not go without water. No company that provides an essential service should be allowed to raise their rates unopposed. I pay on average $125.00 per month that is much higher than any other community charges. It is imperative that the Commerce Commission rejects a rate increase, in fact it should be your responsiblity as an advocate for the citizens of Homer Glen to de-monopolize (if that is a word) IAW and get lower rates.
Besides, IAW is not an Illinois nor an American company in the first place. They deserve none of our Illinois-American hard-earned dollars. This is not a free market economy, if we have no other choices available to us.
09-0319 · Gregory and Janine Weiss
October 15, 2009
WE ARE BEING CHARGED WAY TO HIGH FOR A SERVICE THAT WE CAN NOT GET FROM ANY OTHER COMPANY. WE PAY 3 TIMES MORE THEN ANY TOWN THAT SURROUNDS US.THE ICC IS SUPPOSED TO LOOK OUT FOR US AND THEY ARE NOT!
09-0319 · DONALD MARR
October 15, 2009
I don't know how you people sleep at nite. Homer pays the 2nd highest water bill rates in the state. Our seniors shouldn't have to choose between food, medicine or water. You are robbing people for a basic necessity of life. I think the town should shut you off and let everyone go back to what they had before criminals took our water hostage.
09-0319 · Angela Kamely
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American
Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state.
In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those
should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also
opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather
than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive
expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved,
this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It
affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout
Illinois.
09-0319 · Nancy Connolly
October 15, 2009
Late in 2008 we received “an important notice of wastewater rate changes” from Illinois American Water (IAW). They were pleased to inform us that, beginning in January 2009, the wastewater fee would be decreased by $2.30 monthly. What a nice surprise, I thought suspiciously, finally maybe the people are to get some relief no matter how small. IAW went on to say that this rate could change and that the change would be effective April 1. Right on schedule, as of April 1, the wastewater fee was now $7.90 more a month. Seemed hardly worth our money they spent to send out the mailing patting themselves on the back for two months of savings to us amounting to a measly $5.00—easily eaten up by the new increase. But so typical. Now IAW wants more, more, more. We would like more too. Like many in the multitude who have left comments here, we have not seen an increase in salary in our household either, not only this year, but in the last five years. I used to think we made a good living—not anymore. So many companies and government agencies have decided it’s easier to live off the backs of the people than to conduct honest, efficient, well-managed business that controls costs, makes smart decisions, and is constantly balanced-budget conscious that the peoples’ backs are breaking. This is the way we run our house, and I resent that the money we work so hard to earn and are so prompt to pay out when bills come is used so cavalierly. I would change to a new water company if I could. I would be looking for a company that still considers me their customer rather than the other way round. I would look for the company my mother uses. She lives in another state but gets her water from a lake as well, and for years has paid in the area of $20-$30 a month. Or the company my friend, who lives about 3 miles away, uses. She pays about $30 a month too, and her household is 5 where ours is 2. Asking anyone to pay over $100 a month for water service is unbelievable, but seniors?! We have many seniors living around us. Frankly I don’t know how they can afford to live here at all. Is anyone out there listening, caring? Time will tell I guess.
09-0319 · dsmith
October 15, 2009
I oppose the upcoming proposed rate increase to the residents of Homer Glen.
Home owners already pay very high taxes in exchange for minimal services. Homer Glen has one of the highest water rates in IL. We are going to hurt the resale value of our homes and area if the rates continue to increase. High water rates are bound to keep new people from moving to our town in the future.

Please find a way to freeze our rates, if they can not be lowered.

Sincerely,

Kathy Young
Homer Glen
09-0319 · Katherine Young
October 15, 2009
I STRONGLY OPPOSE THE PROPOSED RATE INCREASE BY Illinois American Water Company. The RATE ARE CURRENTLY THE HIGHEST IN THE STATE. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois .
09-0319 · JEN MAES
October 15, 2009
I STRONGLY OPPOSE THE PROPOSED RATE INCREASE BY Illinois American Water Company. The RATE ARE CURRENTLY THE HIGHEST IN THE STATE. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois .
09-0319 · KRISTIN MAES
October 15, 2009
I STRONGLY OPPOSE THE PROPOSED RATE INCREASE BY Illinois American Water Company. The RATE ARE CURRENTLY THE HIGHEST IN THE STATE. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois .
09-0319 · CAROLE MAES
October 15, 2009
I STRONGLY OPPOSE THE PROPOSED RATE INCREASE BY Illinois American Water Company. The RATE ARE CURRENTLY THE HIGHEST IN THE STATE. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois .
09-0319 · JOHN MAES
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Robert J. Bennett
October 15, 2009
As a resident of Homer Glen my rates for water and sewer are already among the highest in the state. I am looking for a REDUCTION in my rates not an increase. Business expansion should not be on the backs of existing customers. I vehemently oppose ANY increases by Illinois American Water Company - if this increase is approved, I feel that it will negatively affect home values and new business growth for my community.
09-0319 · Linda Thornton
October 15, 2009
I have been a Homer Glen resident for over 13 years, and I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state! In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those
should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois. Please help preserve the future of our children by denying Illinois-American Water Company's request to increase rates, but rather to decrease them instead. Thank you for your time.
09-0319 · Helen Sklodowski
October 15, 2009
I and all my neighbors are strongly opposed to any more rate hikes with American Water here in Homer Glen. Our rates are already among the highest in the State of Illinois. These rediculous Water/Sewer costs are dramatically affecting our Home Values which have already taken a hit with this economy. Moreover it is making our Community less desirable as the prices are unnaffordable. This is the time to tighten our belts and lower our monthly expenses, not to fund the expansion of a water system and a company we no longer desire as our choice for Water and Sewer services.
Stop the American and Water Company from gouging us any longer. We have the right as American Citizens to choose where we live and who should service us. They are affecting our ability to afford to live in the Community we have chosen to live in and the possibility of selling our home if we can no longer afford these unbearable rate hikes. Save our town we so dearly love from these beuracratic sharks!
09-0319 · Laura Bugos
October 15, 2009
I oppose a 30% increase in water rates and a 50% increase in sewer rates that Illinois American Water is bringing to Homer Glen, IL customers.

The uncontrolled rising cost of sewer and water has negative consequences for us all in Homer Glen. Our available financial resources, economic growth and our property values are impacted by high and unpredictable water/sewer rates.

The cost of water (before I even turn my faucets on) is absolutely ridiculous. Water is a basic need, since when did it become priced like a luxury?

09-0319 · John Ward
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the rate increases by Illinois American water company. Right now the rates are one of the highest in the state. Cost savings should be the issue not how much more money we need for missmanagement. I will go to the meeting and have a list of consequences if this is passed.

I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable

If I ran my household the way this company runs there business, I'd be out on the street.
09-0319 · Tom Sklodowski
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the Illinois American Water Company proposed rate hike. This company already charges Homer Glen one of the HIGHEST rates in the STATE. Why do all our neighboring communities have significantly lower rates and can get by on those rates. That a company can just uncontrollably raise its rates at will is ridiculous. It is time to lower rates not raise them.

I find it appalling that in one of the most distressed economic environments since the great depression that Illinois American Water could raise water rates 30% and raise sewer rates 50%. This is an egregious act. As the Illinois Commerce Commission, it is your responsibility to prevent such egregious rate hikes. This is a monopoly at its worst. Consumers have no where to turn.
09-0319 · Danette Sterna
October 15, 2009
Being a business owner in Homer Glen is tough enough, but at my business
I have 4 bathrooms with no showers and a sprinkler system
I have a fire hydrant on my property that I am required to pay for???$45.30 per month???
I have a fire sprinkler sytem that they charge me $69.60 per month!
EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE USED NO WATER FROM THESE EVER!!!!
If anything can be done about this I would appreciate it.
my water bill averages $370.00 per month!!!! how can that be?
I have complained but to deaf ears
$370.00 is alot of money for water I dont care who you are especially if you dont use any.

Mark Johnson
Total Flooring Inc
708-301-4142
09-0319 · Mark Johnson
October 15, 2009
How can IAW think of increasing our water rates? I am thoroughly disgusted. Let's get rid of them completely and start over again. I would rather go back to well water. We did not move to Homer Glen to be slowly and methodically squeezed to death by our utility companies. We are already stretched to the limit and paying some of the highest rates in Illinois and they have no qualms about shutting you off if you can't afford them. What is wrong with them? 30% ($135 now - up to $175. MONTHLY). Did you see anyone watering their grass this summer? The beauty of our open land policy doesn't mean anything when people won't move or stay here because their water costs so much. This is what happens when we let foreign companies buy our utilities. Send them back to their motherland.
09-0319 · Doe Slusarski
October 15, 2009
NO. No more increases. We have been gouged for years on the cost of water and you are hurting our property. Everyone wants to move out of Homer Glen because of the ever-rising water costs and no one wants to buy here because of Illinois American Water. People should want to leave communities because of nuclear waste or gang violence, not because of a water bill. Illinois American Water is robbing us. Please do not allow this to continue.
09-0319 · nancy bayless
October 15, 2009
In regards to Case #09-0319 Illinois-American Water Company - Rate Increase.

My family and I oppose the rate increase. Illinois American Water needs to take a longer view on how it recoups its costs. I'm not against them making a profit, but you can't gouge us all at once. The current rates are already too high compared to surrounding areas; Illinois American Water should be reducing their rates.

Thank You,
Tim Pavela
Homer Glen, IL
09-0319 · Tim Pavela
October 15, 2009
ASKING FOR AN INCREASE IN WATER AND SEWER RATES ESPECIALLY IN THIS ECONOMY IS GOING TO FORCE US TO FIND ANOTHER PLACE TO LIVE. WE ARE GOING ON A FIXED INCOME NEXT YEAR AND IT WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE TO STAY HERE AND KEEP UP WITH THE TAXES, WATER AND SEWER BILLS ETC.
THERE ARE OTHER STATES WHERE THIS I S NOWHERE NEAR THE PROBLEM THAT IT IS HERE.
WHEN WE WERE ON THE COMMUNITY WELL OUR WATER AND SEWER BILLS WERE LESS THAN HALF OF WHAT THEY ARE NOW AND THE WATER WAS FINE. WE STILL HAVE TO TREAT THIS WATER WITH SALT EVEN THOUGH IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE CHICAGO WATER, THAT SHOULD NOT BE BECAUSE WE WERE TOLD THAT CHICAGO WATER WON'T NEED TREATMENT.
PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW ANOTHER WATER AND SEWER INCREASE IN HOMER GLEN.
09-0319 · TRACY TALLY
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

09-0319 · Gregory Pappas
October 15, 2009
I am opposed to the proposed rate increase by Illinois American Water. Our rates are one of the highest in the state, let alone the county. These high rates will have a negative impact on our community regarding home values, business growth, and the local economy. Our rates at this time are already chasing away future homeowners and businesses. In the current economy Illinois American Water should not be raising our rates but looking for ways to implement cost saving measures.
09-0319 · Donna Ottenstroer
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.

09-0319 · Janet Pappas
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · George Simatovich
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Karin Bodenhagen
October 15, 2009
I have lived in Homer Glen for 11 years and as a single parent and a working mother it's hard to make ends meet. When our new water system was installed I was excited not have to buy salt tablets anymore. Well my excitment soon changed. My water bills are outragious. I can't even water my lawn because I can't afford the bill. I want to keep my lawn looking nice but I choose not to. Very sad when you want to keep your property looking nice but you have to think twice.

We are all suffering with the economy and now you want to raise the water rate 30% and the sewer 50%. How can you justify this. It's just crazy!!!!!!!

Everything is going up except the value of my home and I would like to know why????. There is only one income in my household, mine and it seems that all we do now is struggle to cover these outrageous bills.

There has to be a better way. Other communities do it. Everyone I talk to can't believe what I pay in water.

We should of stayed the way we were. I don't need any more stress in my life especially worrying about how I'm gonna pay higher bills.
09-0319 · Phyllis Flieger
October 15, 2009
I very much oppose the requested rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. We have to be paying one of the highest if not the highest rates in the State of Illinois. The water company claims they have no control over what the city dictates that needs to be passed through in order to provide services to us. There is something wrong with this picture that our village is paying far more than others for the same type of services other villages are getting. For a household of 3 we are paying in one month what other villages and communities are paying for 3 months. I am also opposed to any business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. I'm tired of developers/builders wasting our water by leaving the water run at new building sites and that our tax dollars have to be spent watching them constantly to minimize waste. I'm tired of the builders getting breaks to build in our village when they should be contributing more and kicking in if they want to be part of our village.

If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois. We will become the village known as the "Don't move there" village and for anyone wanting or trying to sell their existing homes will continue to find it difficult if buyers are aware (which many from the surrounding areas already do) of the costs one has to incur to live there.
09-0319 · LAURA REDDEL
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois
09-0319 · Gail Ammerman
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases requested by Illinois American Water. The current rates are amongst the highest in the state already. With all of the past rate increases approved for IAW, I see no incentive for them to control costs, rather it seems they spend at will, then simply request a rate increase to cover costs. What is IAW doing to control costs? In this economy, all other companies are forced to tighten their belts. Who else is asking for such a rediculous increase given the poor economy?
Our home values are negatively affected by these continuing rate increases. Please send a message to IAW that enough is enough. There is no more money to give. Force them to operate with what they already are given, again amongst the highest in the state.
The ICC should be protecting the consumer, not handing out unrealistic rate increases to a monopolistic private company.
Let new construction pay for needed improvements. Don't force existing customers to pay for all of the oversized infrastructure that is being put in. We are already bearing the cost of an oversized pipeline from Bedford Park to Homer Glen. This line was oversized with the hope that other municipalities would tap in. After seeing the high costs from IAW, no other communities want to touch this line. Why should Homer Glen and Bolingbrook residents bear the financial burden of this poor business decision?
We simply cannot afford this rate increase. Instruct IAW to find other ways to cover this cost as do other private companies. It is time for the ICC to take a more aggressive stance on these rate increases.
09-0319 · Robert J. Denton
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Maureen Moran
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · John Hartman
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. Thank you.
09-0319 · Wayne P Fairbrother
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · CATHERINE BROCK
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · RICHARD BROCK
October 15, 2009
The current water rates are excessive!!! I haven't watered my lawn in 4 years now because I can't afford to. My average monthly water & sewer bill is over $150/month. Il-American says the increase is to improve infrastructure and for new equipment. These are 1-time charges,...the rate hike will provide them with indefinite added funding!!! We end up paying for new equipment and infrastucture many times over.

I work for a petroleum pipeline company, which is somewhat similair in operation to the water company. We could never increase charges to our customers to improve our infrastructure or to buy new equipment. These costs are part of our operating budget. It is considered the cost of doing business.

Homer Glen has a well deserved reputation as being an expensive community to live in and this is reflected in our poor real-estate market and lower property values compared to surrounding communities. This increase will further contribute to this reputation and our decreased property values.

I've lived in HG for over 20 years and while my income has quadrupled, but because of property taxes and utility rates, it is less affordable to live in my home now than it was 20 years ago.
09-0319 · Dave Mayszak
October 15, 2009
Please do not allow the rate increases IL American Water Co is asking for. We are already paying some of the highest rates in IL. We the existing customers should not have to pay for IL Americans business expansion. I am already on a tight budget with no sight of any increase in my income and in fact my employment is making cuts in hours and benefits making my budget even tighter. IL American needs to implement some cost Saving measures and given the building market I cannot believe they need to expand. My home value, as everyone elses, has already been greatly reduced, if this goes through, it will make it worse. Please put a stop to this.
09-0319 · Lynda Sherko
October 15, 2009
I am unable to attend the town hall meeting being held at Homer Jr. High on October 19th, I am on the high school board and must attend our school board meeting and would like my voice to be heard. I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. Business expansion should be an expense of doing business and should not be paid by existing customers. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois. Please look to other cost saving alternatives to run your business more efficiently without increasing the rates to your customers. Perhaps you could offer suggestions to our residents on how they could possibly capture the ground water that is flooding our community and turn it into a useful water source for water lawns, instead of causing flood damage. Expand your services without harming your customers it' s the socially responsible way to do business.

Respectfully submitted,

Cindy Polke
Homer Glen Resident
09-0319 · Cindy Polke
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. Our rates are among the highest in the state. With the poor economy, increased rates will be horrific for our area, as we urgently need new business to help support our area. Increasing already hugely expensive rates will not only repel new business in our community, it will put further strain on already strained family and business budgets. I have not gotten a straight answer from the company as to why our rates are as high as they are, and now they will be higher? This is absurd. Our rates, if anything, should be coming down, not going up. I strongly oppose this increase in rates.
09-0319 · Stephen Spontak
October 15, 2009
Our bills are $150-$190 plus WITHOUT watering our lawn! The requested increase in price is astronomical! I don't know of any other water company that charges the rates of Illinois American Water Company. When I look at other suburbs and what the residents pay for water and sewer, I cannot figure out why Illinois American needs to charge such high rates, let alone ask for an increase. I can think of a few reasons why they would need to charge such exorbitant rates:

1. Mismanagement of company;
2. Over payment to executives in salaries, bonuses and benefits;
3. Excessive overhead for facilities and operations; and/or
4. Too many employees doing too little work or being overpaid.

Most companies have long-term plans of improvements needed to their systems and/or goals for the company and build them into their costs over a long range. Majority of companies have been cutting costs during these difficult economic times by reviewing wasteful spending, cutting salaries, bonuses and benefits, etc., so I cannot see how they need to request a water increase during the worst economic depression since the 1930s. Illinois-American is great about sending "informative" letters as to what they are doing to improve the service, and these always seem to arrive just before a request for an increase. The citizens of Homer Glen, Orland Hills and other communities that they serve should not be responible for their mismanagement, over-compensation to executives or ineffectivenss of overpaid employees. Illinois American Water company needs to turn off the spigot of overspending within the company before asking their customers for more money.
09-0319 · Norville
October 15, 2009
Illinois Commerce Commission:

THIS HAS GONE WAY TOO FAR. My family STRONGLY OPPOSES the proposed rate increased by Illinois-American Water Company. The CURRENT RATES ARE OUTRAGEOUS. We might just make the Gunness Book Of World Records with the rates they are currently charging. With the current state of the economy we just can't afford to go up - we must go down in the charges Illinois-American Water Company is charging. People Do Jail Time for what this Water Company is proposing to do to the citizens. This Is A CRIME...... Our home values have gone down the drain ----and now they will literally GO DOWN THE DRAIN. DO NOT approve this CRIMINAL request to Increase ----- The Rates Should Be DECREASED. The Taxpayers of Illinois need a Break --- Please Support Our Community.... Thank You / Gina Ter Haar (Homer Glen, Illinois Resident)
09-0319 · GINA TER HAAR
October 15, 2009
I'm opposed to the water and sewer rate increase. I'm concerned with the impact an increase will have on families already struggling to make ends meet. As a single parent and the sole income in the household, I'm mindful of every drop of water now, fearful that the bill will get out of hand. Please help struggling families and oppose this rate increase.
Thank you,
Sue Peterson
09-0319 · Sue Peterson
October 15, 2009
Illinois Commerce Commission:

My husband, myself and our two children would like to file a FORMAL COMPLAINT against the Illinois-American Water Company. We would like the Illinois Commerce Commission to follow thru and PROTECT our family and many others in Homer Glen, Illinois (Will County) against a TOTAL INJUSTICE and OUTRIGHT THEFT to our Family and many others with the possible increases that Illinois-American Water Company might impose on us. We STRONGLY OPPOSE these rate increases. Former water and sewer rates charges charged by Illinois-American Water Company to our famalies have been TOTALLY OUTRAGEOUS. We are asking you, Illinois Commerce Commission to do the RIGHT THING and SUPPORT our FAMALIES in Homer Glen, Illinois against any increases. Currently we hold the record with the highest water & sewer rates in Illinois. With my employment I have received a Pay Cut and my husband is one of the 10percent AND GROWING in Illinois currently Laid Off, along with many friends and neighbors in Will County loosing their homes to Forclosures - the list goes on-and-on. Has anyone been watching the News Lately???? People really need decreases NOT INCREASES. Give the LITTLE GUY A BREAK. Stop Dumping On Us. The Illinois Commerce Commission MUST ACT NOW and stop any further increases in our water & sewer rates. DECREASES NOT INCREASES. (GOD BLESS AMERICA - THIS IS AMERICA AND I AM AN AMERICAN) Thank You for your time - God Bless (THE BLOCK FAMILY)
09-0319 · THOMAS & GINA BLOCK (CHILDREN: CHRISTINA & KEVIN BLOCK)
October 15, 2009
Currently average household is paying water/sewer charges of $120.00 (approx).
per month.
Illinois American? water co. wants to increase 30% on sewer and 50 % on water,
Will you Pay 80% increase ? $96.00
120+96= $216.00 a month ? per water/sewer services?
THIS IS EXTORTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Any increase will be treated as such and legal actions will follow.!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We already paying highest water/sewer fees in Illinois maybe even country.
Any increase will impact values of our homes in negative way.
Will Illinois American Pay for lost home values?
YES !!!! They Will pay IT.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!\
Extortion, fraud and other charges will be filed with proper authorities.
I don't know how much ICC members have been paid , but that sooner or later it will come out.
Outrages!!!!!!!!!!
09-0319 · Jacek Pajak
October 15, 2009
As both a business owner and resident in Homer Glen, I strongly oppose proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. My water/sewer expense in Homer Glen is 7-8x higher than my business and past residence 12-20 miles away, thereby supporting IAWC rates are currently among the highest in the state. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is highly questionable. In this economy with projections of a severe depression in commercial real estate industry in the next 12-18 months following the recent downturn in the housing market, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I agree that if these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local economy as it affects business growth and home values.
09-0319 · Sheryl Poremba
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Marian Higgins
October 15, 2009
The Water distribution of the Village of Homer Glen should be removed from the control of Illinois American Water who is only hurting the people it serves. I understand Illinois American wants to be one of the sole water distribution companies in the world, but like Acorn they need to go due to poor practices that result in ever increasing rates. The Fire Dept. has to get water in Lockport yet we have a charge on our bill. There was a leak for over 1 year which I reported 3 times that was not fixed because we have to pay for lost water.
I want the village to allow the citizens to get their own wells, and contract with Lockport for the Sewers.
09-0319 · Steve Balich
October 15, 2009
I think the rising cost of our water is way out of control. This effects of propetry value. Everyone knows homer Glen has the highest water bill. We can't even water our grass in the summer. I am very disappointed this got this much out of control!!!!
09-0319 · Deanna Zychowski
October 15, 2009
I live in Homer Glen and believe that the price we pay for our water and sewer is way too high already. Surrounding communities pay quarterly what we are paying monthly, and their bill includes garbage in many cases. I believe Illinois American Water Company is taking advantage of the people in Homer Glen. I cannot believe they continually are asking for an increase in water rates. Increases in fees or facilites is unwarranted in these tough economic times. Many people cannot afford the already high rates we are charged, especially the Seniors on fixed incomes. Do not allow this company to get away with charging the residents of Homer Glen any more than the existing fees, which are already over inflated.
09-0319 · Cindy L. Andrews
October 15, 2009
The economy is such that any increases in fee's or facilities would be more devasting to our area!!
We Homer residents pay already some of the highest rates in the state!
The cost of new facilities cannot be put on existing home owners and increased facilities are totally unwarranted at this time easily due to the lack of construction, home building and the economy in general.

This subject is not new to the ICC, and the continued travel back and forth every year to ask for additional increases is ludicrous!

Part of the facts are that where this utility is involved here in our town, already causes financial hardships among residents on fixed incomes, certainly our seniors! But also, if continously allowed to elevate costs as they have in the past will not only will drive out existing homeowners, but will also certainly derail growth and residential building here in the future!

Thank you for this consideration.
09-0319 · Brian Andrews
October 15, 2009
In these economic times, I am against the proposed increase of 61 million. We have cut our water usage down, but our bill is still high to the charges for line, connection, etc.

We reside on the 400 block of Elmwood Dr, in unicorpated Glen Ellyn.
09-0319 · Stephen R Wilk
October 15, 2009
I am oppose a 30% increase in water rates and a 50% increase in sewer rates. I relize they might need a rate increase, But 30% & 50% on top of what they got just a few years ago..................... NO WAY !!
09-0319 · Lawrence Killmer
October 15, 2009
I just received an email from Sandra Pihos notifiying me of a 30% water rate increase by Illinois American Water. As someone unemployed for a year, I can barely survive now. Please do NOT let this increase go into effect.
09-0319 · Janice Nelson
October 15, 2009
Our water and sewer rates are already out of line for the service we receive. Given these dire economic times, I cannot think of a worse time to be putting more financial stress on your customers in addition to the negative impact on our community's economic growth and property values. I adamantly oppose this proposed increase.

Sincerely,

Robert Webster
Homer Glen, IL resident and business owner
09-0319 · Robert Webster
October 15, 2009
Illinois American Water is the beneficiary of a flawed system of public utilities. Originally created to service new subdivisions for properties outside on municipal jurisdictions, IAW has turned into successful for profit entity, interested in a rate of return well above the risk parameters for such a business. The development of Lake Michigan water transmissions has in essence eliminated the risk to the water supply systems being served, giving it a competitive advantage not enjoyed by systems which must rely on well fields.

The best solution is for municipalities to acquire various parts of the IAW system serving customers within their boundaries. and for IAW to leave the area. The failure in my case of Mount Prospect to buy at the market by selling tax exempt bonds abets the IAW stockholders' higher rate of return.

ICC would be well advised (no pun intended) to not permit an increase in water rates which would result in a rate of return greater than that of the Mount Prospect public utility. While it would probably be illegal to create a forced sale by IAW of its physical assets, it would be in the interest of all citizens to provide in equity similar water and sewer rates

.
09-0319 · Paul Speer
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois.
09-0319 · Therese McMahon
October 15, 2009
I strongly oppose the proposed rate increases by Illinois American Water Company. The rates are currently among the highest in the state. In this economy, cost saving measures should be implemented and those should be reflected in reduced rates – not increases. I am also opposed to business expansion being paid by existing customers rather than new development. Given the current building market, aggressive expansion of sewer plants is questionable. If these rates are approved, this increase will be detrimental to our local and state economy. It affects our business growth, retention and home values throughout Illinois. We currently pay double and triple of what our neighboring communities are paying for water and they want to raise it even more? This has to stop .
09-0319 · Rick Lakie
October 15, 2009
As a taxpayer, I am voicing the opinion that I am against the water and sewer rate increase that was requested by Illinois American Water. The rates currently are inflated and to further increase rates would create a hardship for my family. We are just making ends meet during this difficult economic climate and to place an additional financial burden on the consumer is unfair and unjustified.
09-0319 · Karen Thomas
October 15, 2009
Our family has been residents of Homer Glen for over 35 years and we are strongly against further rate increases by Illinois American Water. Our family of 6, consistently has monthly invoices well above $150 per month ever since Illinois American Water has continually increased our rates over the course of the past several years. Many of our neighboring townships and cities do not experience the inflated costs that IL American Water continually seems to be imposing on our town and in these economic times, we as residents have no further choice but to oppose these rate hikes. Our invoice has jumped almost 50% of what they were originally when we started services with IL American Water. We cannot continue to accept these increases...
09-0319 · Shaune Jones
October 15, 2009
I am appalled that yet another increase is being requested when we already are paying one of the highest rates. Home values are bad enough these days without the added cost of water and sewer. So many companies and businesses today are offering relief, discounts, lower prices to help the public throughout these trying times of economic difficulties. But we always know we can count on Illinois-American Water to continue to raise prices when they know that the public is at their mercy as water and sewer usage is a daily necessity in this country. As I and many of my neighbors are currently unemployed, I cannot believe the audacity of your decision to request yet another increase during a recession no less.
This news comes on top of a boil order that most of us weren't even aware of last week because a little piece of paper stuck on door handles that mostly blew away. Had we not all called each other, there could have been many ill people on top of everything.
Instead of increasing rates, hire the people who will do a better job producing better quality. Every other company in the world has taken efforts to lower prices and increase productivity, at the expense of their employees even taking pay cuts or job losses.
Do SOMETHING to restructure yourselves, but quit looking to us to finance your mistakes!
09-0319 · Jane Nativo
October 13, 2009
I'VE LIVED IN THIS SUBDIVISION FOR THIRTYNINE YEARS. THE WATER HERE IS NOT DRINKABLE WITHOUT USING A SOFTENER. WITHOUT SOFTENING, THE WATER RUINS APPLIANCES AFTER A FEW YEARS. I ALREADY PAY, INCLUDING SOFTENING, APPROXIMATELY $100 PER MONTH FOR WATER. TO ALLOW A 50% INCREASE WOULD BE CRAZY.
09-0319 · ARLENE CLEARY
October 13, 2009
Re: American Illinois Water's recent application for a rate increase. I feel that the increase is unwarranted and will negatively impact my standard of living. The % of increase is well beyond any reasonable amount. In act, I don't believe any increase is warranted at all. Thank you for reading my complaint.Richard Drees
09-0319 · Richard Drees
October 15, 2009
I would like to state my strong disapproval of the proposed water and sewer rate increases by the IAW. The dollar amounts Homer Glen residents already pay for water is outrageous. We cannot afford an increase. IAW is proposing to raise our water rates by 29.72 percent and our sewer rates by 50.96 percent. In this tough economic time, people are having a difficult enough time affording their mortgages. While people are losing jobs and taking pay freezes or decreases, and considering the extraordinarily high rates and bills IAW is already charging, it would be extremely unjust for the IAW to be proposing such increases. Our water rates are already unfair. It is unjust for the IAW to be proposing such increases. Please do not allow these insanely high increases. Water bills in Homer Glen are much higher than surrounding areas. If this increase is stemming from a problem with unaccounted for water, IAW should be responsible and should put measures in place to prevent such issues, rather than passing this problem onto their customers. My bill is already way too high and should be lowered, NOT raised. Thank you for your time.
09-0319 · Kimberly Carmello
October 15, 2009
The 24%+ rate increase requested is far above reality in our current low inflation, weak economy environment. I am a CFA and have spent many years investing in utilities. I know that the practice is to request more than you expect to get, because the ICC has to justify their existence by granting a lower % increase than the request. However, based on IL Amer Water's bizarre request, I think they should be penalized. How about a rate decrease!
09-0319 · Michael A Scelsi
October 15, 2009
I am appalled that IL American Water Company is asking for another rate increase of this size. There current rate is $2.8149 per 100 cubic feet plus a basic fee of $22.46 per 2 months service. I have experience in the wastewater field and it is more costly to treat wastewater than ground water for potable water. Urbana Champaign Sanitary District, same area, has a rate of $1.46 for treatment and $0.62 for collections, for a total of $2.08 per 100 cubic feet billable and has to treat infiltration on top of that. They are increasing their rate 3% a year until 2016 for a total of $2.56 per 100 cubic feet. The last ILAWC rate request was as much as UCSD charged for treating wastewater. UCSD just completed a $40 million expansion and is currently funding another $40 million upgrade.

The last increase was to produce useful water by the end of 2008. My understanding, though not verified, is that they produced water and obtained an NPDES permit from IEPA to discharge it to the stream as they had no delivery yet. I am sure that you could find out from IEPA if this is correct. Some of the concrete work was rushed and is need of repair as water had seeped out of conctete tanks. The users will probably have to pay for more repairs in the future as due diligence was not made during construction.

There is a lot of profit in treating good quality ground water to make potable water. We need to encourage conservation more to protect the water supply. Too much profit will only encourge more waste.

Thank You
09-0319 · James Royer
October 15, 2009
Please take into consideration the adverse affect that Illinois American Water Company's 29.99% increase will have on families in the rural communities of Alhambra, Hamel, Grantfork, Livingston, Marine, Pocahontas, St. Jacob and Worden. I strongly suggest the Illinois Commerce Commission also consider the economic hardship such an increase would have on these rural communities during such hard economic times. Between the raising cost of heating and Real Estate Taxes and once again the possible rise in water rates it is becoming very difficult to afford to live in these areas. Illinois American Water Company requested an increase last year of close to 20%. The Illinois Commerce Commission so graciously awarded an increase close to 30%. The combination of last year’s increase and this year’s increase would amount to a two year cumulative increase of more than 69%. On behalf of families living in rural areas we must cut our budgets to make ends meet in order to provide for our families. What steps and measures is Illinois American Water Company taking to cut their costs?

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Craig Potthast
09-0319 · Craig Potthast
October 15, 2009
It is a shame that we have to pay 3 times more for the same water and service than other residents who get the water from somebody else than Illinois American Water. How and why did the ICC approve all those increases in the past, knowing that we get the same quality water from the same source as those who pay just a fraction of what we pay. And now thay want even more money? It is incredible.
09-0319 · Ethel Dobo
October 15, 2009
Illinois American Water wastes enough money on their advertising and nice cups at public events. Cut out these expenses, and do not raise our rates!
09-0319 · M. McCall
October 15, 2009
We do not need to pay any more for water. Cut down your advertising and wast of cups at public events.
09-0319 · M McCall
October 15, 2009
Not only should IL AM Water not be allowed a rate increase, they should be forced to decrease the amount that we are currently being charged. We understand that the German company that owned them has now listed the company on the stock exchange and their bottom line is to make as large a profit as possible, and pay out as large a dividend as possible. BUT, at whose expense? The poor American consumer who has no choice in who provides their water! NO ONE who currently is forced to use IL AM Water & Sewer wants them. I have attended 2 meeting and not one person was happy with them. They have been unresponsive to complaints (I filed one at the open meeting in Prospect Heights, IL 10/3/2006 with one of their employees. It was ignored. I do not consider their water potable. My daughter and her family (also residents) in River Trails area of Mt. Prospect, did not even want to take a shower, wash dishes, do laundry or cook with this water that leaves a black oily ring on all the fixtures. IL AM Water (and their predecessors) has failed to update their infrastructure in the 10 years I have lived here. However, they do fix frequent water main breaks (turning off our service). Why should we be paying 2 or 3 times as much for our water and sewer as everyone else in this state? Our rates should be compatible with those of the towns that we live in. It is time for the ICC to start rolling back prices or give us a competitor that we can choose to provide our service.

I fear that it will be more difficult to sell either property that I own in the River Trails section of Mt. Prospect due to the unconscionable water and sewer rates.
09-0319 · Martin & Sylvia Nigliazzo
October 9, 2009
Please do not allow Illinois American Water to significantly increase our already high water bills. It is a real hardship for people who live in this area and have no alternative but to pay these high prices. Those who are on fixed incomes and/or have had a job loss or are barely able to keep up with all of the other increases Illinois State politics has placed on us. I know that they are probably entitled to an increase of some sort but the increase that they are asking for is unfair. People won't even be able to pay their basic water bill. The state of the economy has affected us all - where are the facts to justify such a huge increase. In the 30 years that I've lived in this house I've paid ten times what other people in Mt. Prospect pay for their water - it isn't fair.
09-0319 · Pamela Walger
October 9, 2009
RE: Docket #: 09-1319

I am against the rate increase AGAIN from Illinois American Water. The people that have this company are already paying WAY more than everyone else for the same Lake Michigan Water. Our services from IAW is no different than anyone else that is receiving Lake Michigan Water. My bill every month is already extremely high. I just paid $84.44 for this month (October 2009), this is ridiculous and outragous. I live in Mount Prospect but I am located at the North East corner of my town and do not pay the Village of Mount Prospect. If I did pay the Village my bill would be far less for exactly the same services. I would like to have a choice in who I pay, and of course I would pay the company that charges me a lower rate for the same exact services.

Please halt the rate increase. I would love to see a decrease. IAW should be more competitive with the other companies that offer water services. It is unfair for the people that are stuck with IAW with the highest rates around.

Thank you for your time.

Rosette Marturana
1401 N. Sauk Ln.
Mount Prospect, IL. 60056
847-296-2735
09-0319 · Rosette Marturana
October 9, 2009
I can't believe the ICC is entertaining the possibility of granting IAW yet ANOTHER rate increase. I think IAW first needs to explain why they charge twice as much as the Village of Mount Prospect charges the Mt. Prospect resident's that obtain their water servier through the Village of Mt. Prospect. Also, IAW says that a lot of the reason they need to increase rates it to pay for infrastructure costs. There have been two burst water lines on my parkway and three burst water lines on my neighbor's parkway and just last weekend a river down Burning Bush Lane from a burst water lines and the reason for all these issues is because IAW never actually repairs anything....they just patch. Well that is like putting a band-aid on a bullet wound. It doesn't work. What in the world are they doing with all the profits they make. The answer is they are increasing executive salaries, executive bonuses and also upstreaming the $ to their parent company.

I am a single person household and my water bills are always around $60 dollar a month (plus or minus a dollar or two). Most of the cost of the monthly bills are fixed costs so I can't reduce my monthly bill by conserving any more than I already do. My water bills are higher than anyone I know living in other surburbs or in Chicago. Isn't this enough of a sign that something is wrong here? ICC please do the right thing and reject the increase IAW is requesting.

I attended the hearing on Oct 8th at the Mt. Prospect Village Hall and although several IAW representatives were on had to respond to residents' questions, the responses the IAW gave were weak and unconvicing in terms of the facts, many of which they were either unable to provide or unable to substantiate.

Thank you for this opportunity to express my opinion on this rate increase request.
09-0319 · Karen G. Giambalvo
October 9, 2009
I am a 32 year resident of Bolingbrook and for the past 16 years I have been a Commissioner on the Village's Neighborhood Preservation Commission, and presently hold the position of vice-chair. At the latest meeting on October 1, 2009, various issues affecting neighborhoods of Bolingbrook were discussed. I opened discussion about the proposed rate hikes and related issues. I ventured a question and asked if there was anyone on the board who had noticed their homes being filled with small flies (sewer flies). After initial gasps and hesitation, all the members immediately said YES! They all thought it was some issue within their home and 1 person even hired an exterminator to find the source. These flies have been persistant throughout the summer months and linger still. They are drown-proof and come up through the drains. One finds them all over the house and when swatted they leave a powdery black dust, very much like moths do. We agreed it was very embarassing and disgusting. Others made comments regarding the lovely orange residue at the drains, and the bizarre black growths in toilets that have just been cleaned. We all had experienced the unpleasant "lake smell" when showering or bathing with ILAm water. So replacing the hydrants, painting the tank, and updating meters are nice, but the quality of the water is more of a concern. The board members represent different areas in the Village, but suffer the same lack of quality. It would salve the sting of MORE INCREASES if residents were not disgusted by the above mentioned range of "extras" that already come with their water service. GROSS!
09-0319 · Diane Vandiver
October 9, 2009
Our household strongly opposes the proposed water rate hikes. The increase is rates is unreasonable in comparision to the current prices. Without the hike AWC may not be able to execute it's planned upgardes; it is time to reassess those plans to establish a course of actionsthat improves the water system yet is within a reasonable budget.

The alternative would be to seek alternative funding from the AWC's profits, investments, reserves--as opposed to "passing the buck" onto the customers---many of which can NOT afford this significant rate hike.

NO to the price hike!!!
09-0319 · Dagmara Kalinowski
October 9, 2009
Re: Illinois-American Water Company
Proposed general increase in water and sewer rates. (Tariffs filed May 29, 2009)

Mrs. Zimberoff and I have lived in the same home in Mt. Prospect for 25 years. While water rates in this area have been higher than average over the years, we and our neighbors always felt we were being fairly dealt with by Citizens Utility Company, the predecessor water utility for this area.

Since the business was purchased by Illinois-American Water Company, our rates have risen dramatically. We are a household of only two people and no pets, and our average monthly bill is $85.00.

We know people in surrounding communities that pay less than this quarterly. As retirees on a limited income, rising utility cost have become a real concern.

Most businesses do not enjoy the luxury of applying for rate increases when their costs go up. They make every effort possible to trim their costs to stay competitive. Utilities in Illinois seem to have their way with rate increases and in my experience, do not try very hard to reduce their costs. I have had personal experience with a very large electric utility in Illinois and found people asleep on the job when visiting their power generation plants. Illinois residents cannot afford to pay for lax management or to enrich shareholders.

Utlilties also have expertise in making their financial statements look like they are losing money. I'm sure if government employed forensic accountants to go over their statements, they would find many irregularities.

Please do everything possible to protect the people of Illinois and spare the Illinois Attorney General from investigating Illinois-American by denying their rate increase request.

Sincerely,
Martin and Beverly Zimberoff
09-0319 · Martin L and Beverly B Zimberoff
October 9, 2009
The Commission has recieved Damaging Testimony concerning IAWC's arrogance in this and the past rate case . An Order is Clear, IAWC's "mud-it-up" methodology never is. Keep Begging this Commission to Keep Digging into IAWC, Refunds are the only fix, tell all.
Thank You Mr. Marchetti , and all Interveners Working to stop this madness and arrogance!!!!
09-0319 · James E. DeRuntz
October 9, 2009
My water bill for a 2 bedroom 1 bath apartment, in which I live alone, is an average of $60.00.I shower once a day and do laundry once a week. I eat most of my meals out so I don't have a lot dishes.I don't have a car to wash nor a yard to water the $60.00 a month it seems to mw is very expensive for the amount of water I use less.
09-0319 · Darrell Mooney
October 8, 2009
I AM DEFINITELY AGAINST THE RATE HIKE FOR AMEREN. WE PAY ENOUGH NOW AS IT IS. IN THIS ECONOMY IT IS DIFFICULT ALREADY AT THE CURRENT RATES.
09-0319 · LINDA PAYNE
October 9, 2009
We are senior citizens on a fixed income. The increases that IAW has submitted will cause us hardship. Seniors on a fixed income do not receive a "cost of living" increase in their income. Also, with our economy in such disarray, how can IAW request such an increase with a clear conscience.
We are very much against any increase from IAW.
09-0319 · Norman & Frances Van Kampen
October 9, 2009
WHEN I BOUGHT MY HOUSE OVER 25 YEARS AGO THE WATER CHARGE WAS 3 TIMES THE COST OF WATER FROM THE VILLAGE OF MT PROSPECT. WHENEVER I MENTION TO FREINDS AND RELATIVES WHAT I PAY PER MONTH THEY CAN NOT BELIEVE HOW HIGH THE COST IS.

NOW I HEAR THERE WILL BE A SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE IN THE WATER AND SEWER RATES. I RECENTLY LOST MY JOB EARLIER THIS YEAR AND WILL START SOCIAL SECURITY NEXT YEAR. OF ALL TIMES TO COME UP WITH A LARGE INCREASE WHEN OUR ECONOMY IS AT ITS WORST AND PEOPLE ARE HAVING TROUBLE PAYING THEIR BILLS.

THANK YOU
LEE M. WALDOCH
09-0319 · LEE M. WALDOCH
October 9, 2009
Why, all of a sudden, does this company need a 25% increase in the water and sewer price rates???
There couldn't have been gradual increases over quite a number of years???
I live in a one bedroom condo unit in the River Trails Condominiums and this condo association expects to pay $200,000 for water in 2009 which is 18% of the assessments.

I presently pay $244 per month in condo fees and these increases are particularly hard on me as a senior living on a fixed income.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Larry Balsley 832 Winesap Court Unit 306 Prospect Heights, IL. 60070 847-520-5886
09-0319 · Lawrence E. Balsley
October 9, 2009
Re: Illinois American Water's proposed rate increase I am STRONGLY opposed! We are already paying TOO MUCH, especially when compared with surrounding communities. I attended the meeting a couple of years ago when American Water reps came out to meet with our community under the giese that they actually cared. I walked away from the meeting knowing that they really don't. American Water is a private for profit company - period. There is a point, however, when profit becomes GREED. In this economy where we are all feeling the strain wouldn't it be refreshing if some company actually acted responsibly and tried to help the communities that they serve rather than gouging them. How much more are we as consumers expected to bear just so your share holders can make a profit? Mostly, what about the elderly that have given their whole lives to our communities? Now on fixed incomes what are they suppose to do? Illinois American Water I say that you are acting irresponsibly as a member of our community and a little un-American.

Thank you for accepting my comments.
09-0319 · Nancy Tipitino
October 9, 2009
THEY HAD AN INCREASE ENOUGH IS ENOUGH UTILITES ARE KILLING US
09-0319 · RONALD MIDDLETON
October 7, 2009
WITH THE CURRENT ECONOMIC ISSUES, THIS PROPOSAL FOR A $61 MILLION RATE INCREASE IS REDICULOUS. I AM OPPOSED TO A RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER.
09-0319 · MIKE BRONK
October 9, 2009
Those of us on fixed income cannot stand an increase in our water rates.

Everything is going higher & we are forced to not take some of our prescriptions so we can eat. Now you want to further increase our problem by raising your rates. Please do not raise the rates.
09-0319 · RICHARD L. HARRISON
October 6, 2009
ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER JUST HAD A RATE INCREASE WITHIN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS. I AM A SENIOR CITIZEN. DUE TO ECONOMIC TIMES I DON'T THINK THE RATE INCREASE IS FAIR, ESPECIALLY TO SENIORS WHO CAN HARDLY MAKE IT NOW.
09-0319 · DONALD SWANSON
October 6, 2009
AARP SENT ME A LETTER REGARDING A PROPOSED $61 MILLION RATE INCREASE FOR ILLINOIS AMERICAN. WATER IS A NECESSITY. WITH THE CURRENT ECONOMY THIS IS THE WRONG TIME FOR AN INCREASE. IT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE.
09-0319 · JOHN LASPISA
October 9, 2009
Please do not consider additional rate hikes. This is the worst possible timing as we are struggling to pay our bare necessities.
09-0319 · Jill Bush
October 9, 2009
Please strongly consider defeating the proposed rate hike increase for Illinois American Water company. At this time, thousands of Illinois families are struggling with job losses and other results of this poor economy. It is unfair to ask the taxpayers to continue to line the pockets of the wealthy water company shareholders.
09-0319 · Stephanie Janson
October 9, 2009
Please do not allow this second rate hike in as many years. It is unreasonable and unwarranted.
09-0319 · Mary Hosier
October 9, 2009
I am writing to ask you to oppose the current rate request by Illinois American Water Company. The current rate increase was filed less than a year afer Illinois American was given a 47.2 percent rate increase.

I am a Senior citizen, who by the way is not getting a Social Security cost of living rase for the next 2 years. I thing Illinois American Water Company needs to tighten the belt, just as we seniors have done.

I find it offensive the Illinois American President Karla Teasley said in fact that the water company now anticipates every two years asking for a rate increase to keep up with infrastructure maintenance. I think that is unjustified and believe me, I pray every nite for a small increase in social security for my maintenance, (medicne,food,and utilites), when will it ever end.

Please reconsider the excessive rate increase.

Thank You, Mary C. Lowary
09-0319 · Mary C Lowary
October 5, 2009
This is in reference to docket #09-0319. I oppose the request by Illinois American Water to raise their rates.I am a single person household and my bill is currently $70-75 per month. My last bill was for 2000 gallons. If the rate request goes into effect my bill will be $100/month or more for water. I have a friend who lives in Glen Ellyn proper (I live in an unincorporated area) and her bill is around $25 each month. The proposed increase is outrageousMaureen L. Barrett23W233 Cambridge CtGlen Ellyn, IL 60137
09-0319 · Maureen Barrett
October 5, 2009
I'M OPPOSE TO ANY RATE INCREASE THE ICC MAY APPROVE FOR THIS COMPANY. THE ICC ALREADYHAS APPROVED A RATE INCRERASE EARLIER FOR THIS COMPANY.
09-0319 · MICHAEL DARLING
October 9, 2009
Their increase is unreasonable due to poor service on their part . With the economy the way it is I cannot afford to keep bailing these companys out. Since when does a company not have to invest it's OWN money to improve THEIR service and reliability ?! We can't pass OUR costs for living on to our Government and these utility companys! No one deserves a free ride . Just more money being rewarded for bad performance . I'm out of money !!!
09-0319 · Keith & Jackie Stone
October 9, 2009
I am against the rate hike. The rate payer is stretching to make every buck count. We had a rate increase about two years ago. No.

Jim
09-0319 · jim brinkmann
October 9, 2009
I am against the proposed increase of both water and sewer rates. This increase is not justified given the state of commodity prices today and future projections. In every commodity purchased by IL American water, their expenses should have decreased.

I would expect lower rates, given the reduction in expenses.

Please do NOT allow IL American Water to increase rates.
09-0319 · Robert Bahmann
October 9, 2009
I am an honest citizen who usually pays my families bills on time and in full. After buying my home in Mt. Prospect over five years ago, I was shocked when I received my first water bill. The monthly amount I have to pay fro my water is outrageous. I have a brother-in-law who lives in the South part of Mt. Prospect and his water is supplied by the Village. He pays a significant amount less for his water than I do for mine. I am uncertain why my water needs to be supplied by Illinois american Water at all. Regardless, during the last five years I've resided in Mt. Prospect it has not always been easy to pay my bills on time and in full. Now, my family joins the many who are severely feeling the current economic squeeze throughout our nation. This has made paying my bills on time and in full even more challenging. It has not been done without sacrifice. If Illinois American Water is allowed to enforce a rate increase it will have a terrible impact on my and my family. I urge the readers of this letter to please not approve the proposed Illinois American Water rate increase. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Danna Kobeski
09-0319 · Danna Kobeski
October 9, 2009
I am an honest citizen who usually pays my families bills on-time and in full. After buying my home in Mt. Prospect over five years ago, I was shocked when I received my first water bill. The monthly amount I have to pay for my water is outrageous. I have a brother-in-law who lives in the South part of Mt. Prospect and his water is supplied by the Village. He pays a significant amount less for his water. I am uncertain why my water needs to be supplied by Illinois American Water.

Regardless, during the last five years I've resided in Mt. Prospect I have usually paid all of my families bills on-time and in full, although it has not always been easy to do. Now, my family joins the many who are severely feeling the current economic squeeze throughout our nation. This has made paying my bills on-time and in full even more challenging. It has not been done without sacrifice. If Illinois American Water is allowed to issue a rate increase it will have a terrible impact on me and my family. I urge the readers of this letter to please not approve the proposed Illinois American Water rate increase.

Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Danna Kobeski
09-0319 · Danna Kobeski
October 9, 2009
I have been retired for 10 years. When I worked there was no way our customers would allow us to raise prices like Illinois American Water. Did they ever hear of cost reductions to offset their cost increases. Unlike my old company's customers I cannot go to another supplier. We have one source for water. I hope the ICC board defends us little guys. All the towns around us get their water supplied by their villages and pay much less than Illinois American Water users. Even if we have to pay more the spread is already way too big to justify these increases. These towns have to purchase Lake Michigan water from the same sources. So why the big spread? A few years ago I went to a Illinois American Water town meeting where this subject was brought up. At that time the people form the the company said they had hired a consultant to investigate that issue. I never heard of the result of that study. What are they telling the ICC?
09-0319 · Peter Skittone
October 9, 2009
I am TOTALLY against your proposed rate hike for water and sewer services. IAW is not doing a good job in maintaining the water and sewer lines. You have not delivered satisfactory services for the current price you're charging.

I have lived in Bolingbrook for over 20 years, prior to Bolingbrook receiving Lake Michigan water. Over the last few years, we now have sewer flies, foul odor coming from our kitchen sink and floor drains. Initially my husband and I didn't know what was attributing to this so we did everything in our power to eliminate the flies and odors.

While talking to some of our neighbors, we learned that this wasn't isolated to our house. They too were experiencing the same things. It's not our houses, it is the lack of treatment Illinois American Water is doing. We have never had this problem before. It's also is not an isolated problem in my area; I've talked to other people living on various sides of town and they too say they have sewer flies. As a matter of fact, they're the ones that told me what the flies are called.

Illinois American Water, CLEAN THE SEWER LINES!
09-0319 · Lillian Smith
October 9, 2009
As a village trustee of this small village I find it necessary to ask that you deny the 29.9% rate increase being requested by Illinois American Water Company. If Illinois American Water Company were allowed this rate increase, which it would pass on to our provider Bond Madison, the village would have to pass it on to our users. With the nature of the economy at it present time, any increase to the user is felt unjustified, as they are struggling with loss of jobs, little or no increase in present income, and just trying to make ends meet.

Sincerely,
James Meadows
Trustee Village of Marine Illinois
09-0319 · James P Meadows
October 2, 2009
I do not support Illinois-American Water's proposed fee increases. Illinois-American has already increased its fees substantially, most recently a year or so ago. This move is simply gouging the customer -- one who has no alternative source of water. I think Illinois-American is simply pushing to see how much it can get and is meanwhile increasing the value of its stock. Enough is enough.
09-0319 · William Brown
October 2, 2009
Please do not allow Illinois American Water to raise our water rates! We are struggling as it is just to meet our monthly bills. It seems like all our monthly expenses are going up, but my pay is not. In fact, raises are out of the question this year. It is not fair to the customer to raise rates at this time. It will only mean that we will be late on our payments more often than we already are.

Thank you.
09-0319 · Michael Lindsey
October 2, 2009
Under general circumstances when we are still struggling to pay past due bills, the rates increases are unacceptable.
09-0319 · Pompilia Burcica
October 2, 2009
Illinois American Water pricing kept rising so much in the recent years. I believe we're paying the highest water and sewage prices in the area already.
09-0319 · Linh Hoang
October 1, 2009
No way to the rate increase.
09-0319 · Arthur Orsted
October 1, 2009
We are in a recession- I'm currently getting laid off. An increase now is just crazy!
09-0319 · Tammy
October 1, 2009
I strongly oppose an increase in rates by Illinois-American Water Company at this time. I and most of my neighbors are significantly challenged meeting the current rates of our utilities. IAWC raised rates not long ago, creating budgeting changes we are still adjusting to.
I live in an apartment building in Urbana. Of the 20 units I look out at directly, 5 are empty. Of the 15 others, 3 are occupied by people who are "working poor," 1 by a woman living temporarily on unemployment benefits, 1 by a woman living on Township Assistance (about $243. per month), 1 by a man living on disabled veteran benefits, 8 by people living on SSI or SSDI, and one by a woman currently living with neither job nor benefits. At least 8 of us receive federal housing assistance. In 3 households, efforts to conserve energy are limited by the need to power wheelchairs and medical equipment.
Most of my neighbors struggle to pay rent and utilities, using every resource available. Sustaining help with water bills is non-existent, and people scramble for help from churches and a few charitable agencies. Increasingly, those of us receiving housing help face homeless not because we can't pay rent, but because we can't keep up with utilities. Raising water rates will raise the level of crisis in my neighborhood, forcing us into shelters and institutions, ultimately far costly forms of housing to citizens at the state and local levels. Please do not approve this IAWC rate hike.
09-0319 · Robin Arbiter
October 1, 2009
IL American Water should not recieve their rate hike - they JUST HAD ONE and I haven't had an increase in my paycheck in over a year. My water bill went from an avg. of $46-50 to $80-90 this year. - just say NO IL American Water....too many people cannot keep up with these insane increases
09-0319 · KarenLowry
October 1, 2009
I do not want Ameren to recieve the rate increase proposal that they are requesting. The economy has not rebounded in a way that the average consumers in the community I reside in can afford the higher utility bill. Ameren made signifcant profit last year and this rate proppsal in unnecessary and in my opinion just pure greed. Greed by major corporations in our country is the reason we are in just dire economic straights.
09-0319 · Rosetta White
October 1, 2009
We have lived in our house for 13 years. We have seen our water bill go up constantly for NO REASON. Now they want another raise at a time when the cost of living for all of us has risen dramatically while jobs are lost and salaries cut ( as mine was cut $600. per month). We are already paying $94.00. They should be ashamed of themselves to ask for a rate increase whille we are suffering through this economy!
09-0319 · Penny Baer and Robert Baer
October 1, 2009
I oppose the increase in the water and sewer rates. Before moving to Bond County, I lived in St. Louis County, Missouri, where I paid approximately $18.00 for a three month period for water and sewer. The charges in Bond County came as a real shock as now I pay approximately $35 to $40 per month. So many residents are now living on a fixed or low income and utilities rates are very difficult to keep up with for them. Instead of the government giving money away to car dealers, banks, and other large companies, they need to help out the utilities companies whereby helping out the fixed and low income families. The Illinois-American Water Company should inquire about receiving stimilus packages from the federal government. The State of Illinois and its residents are in a bad situation and need bailed out!!
09-0319 · Janet
October 1, 2009
My husband and I are nine year residents of Hamel, IL. We pay A LOT for water and sewer. Despite doing what we can by owning a low-flow toilet and shower head, as well as an efficient washer, we still pay about $65 per MONTH for water and sewer. That's ridiculous. We are environmentally conscious people. We recycle and only use what we need--water included. We don't waste. To pay more for our water will damage our budget. It seems to me, like much in government, it's not how much money you have, but how it's spent. Before passing on more hardships to the public, take a look at your own budget and see where you can make sacrifices like all regular citizens are doing now. When you don't have a choice in your water provider, that provider shouldn't be allowed to raise rates at such an alarming percentage for two years in a row.
09-0319 · Nicole Potthast
October 1, 2009
I am a landlord of a 3 flat building in Mt.Prospect. I have been currently paying $250 to $300 a month for water. Almost double what most others are paying in my area. A rate increase is NOT justified. I have called in plumbers, water company, etc to check out if there is a leak in the building and no one is able to find one. I have not been able to increase rents in the last 5 years and will not be able to pay an increase in utilities.

thank you.
Fanoula Lampros
09-0319 · Fanoula Lampros
October 1, 2009
I am opposed to having the water rates raised so drastically. thank you.
09-0319 · Rhonda Winterbottom
October 1, 2009
Illinois-American Water Company has not presented adequate justification for the increase requested. Therefore I see no reason to raise the water rates for this company who is has a monopolistic hold over me a customer.
09-0319 · Leslie Benson
October 1, 2009
Illinois-American Water has no made a good case for such a steep increase in their fees. Please do not grant this request.

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