A special finance meeting of the Watseka City Council is planned for September 29th.  Mayor Bob Harwood and the aldermen will examine proposals already on the table to discuss the future of the city water and water treatement plant operation.  The 7 pm Thursday meeting may be directed to executive session.

Mayor Harwood cautioned aldermen at Tuesday's Public Works Committee meeting that any talk about the proposed sale of the water/water treatment system could find the maeeting closed to the public.

Aqua Illinois has proposed buying the city's water system.  No decision has been made.  Both the city and Aqua Illinois officials have already said rate hikes are very likely for the future operation of the water system.

Aqua Illinois' proposal is to purchase the system for $10.3 million and direct monies toward infrasturcture improvements.  

Alderman John Allhands said he'd like the city to hire a private firm to explore and find out what the Watseka water system is worth.  Alderman Dennis Cahoe also questions the proposed rate hikes and what affect it would have on citizens, especially seniors on fixed incomes ?  Cahoe also wants to learn any cost of having the city operate its own system and what ERH Enterprises can offer the city. ERH is currently managing/operating the water system under contract with Watseka.  

94.1 WGFA