A public hearing is the next step in Watseka now that Aqua Illinois has formally offered the city $10.5 million for the purchase of the city’s water system and wastewater treatment facility.

Local residents can now ask questions and learn more about any proposed sale of the water system. Taxpaying citizens are invited to a 6 pm public hearing next Tuesday, July 26 at City Hall.

Aldermen want the public to be well-informed.

Aqua Illinois made its formal sale offer to the Finance committee Tuesday night.

The $10.5 million from the sale could be channeled toward infrastructure upgrades. But nothing’s firm as how any sale money would be used.

Aqua Illinois’ proposal would nearly double the rates for taxpayers. Mayor Bob Harwood said should the city take back the water system and operate itself, rates would most likely more than double.

The city water system and waste water treatment plant is currently operated by ERH Enterprises of Westville (IL).

94.1 WGFA