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The Village of Bourbonnais has addressed renewed interest and misinformation regarding the sale of its sewer system, emphasizing transparency in the process. The Village Board reiterated that a study identified $9 million needed for improvements to the existing sewer infrastructure.
Faced with significant financial decisions, the board considered two options: raising sewer rates or selling the system to a utility company. After public consultations, it decided that selling was in residents' best interests. Aqua Illinois, a utility provider already serving Kankakee County, purchased the system for $32.2 million following approval by the Illinois Commerce Commission on August 31, 2021.
The sale included commitments from Aqua Illinois to invest $9 million in system upgrades over ten years. The transaction also facilitated financial relief for Bourbonnais, eliminating $16.2 million in debt and providing reimbursements totaling $2.3 million.
Additionally, Bourbonnais retained ownership of significant sewer capacity at the Kankakee River Metropolitan Agency (KRMA), valued between $30-$40 million, supporting future economic growth and development control within Kankakee County.
Employment stability was maintained as sewer personnel were reassigned within municipal roles. It was clarified that funds for The Grove entertainment venue did not originate from this sale but from alternative sources like business district revenues.
The decision followed extensive study and community input aimed at ensuring fiscal stability and future growth opportunities for Bourbonnais residents through strategic partnerships with Aqua Illinois.
