October 6, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City Water, Sewer Rates Among Lowest In State
DECATUR - The City of Decatur has the second-lowest residential rates for water and sewer service in the state according to a report released recently by an Illinois engineering, planning and hydrology firm.
According to the report released by Berns, Clancy and Associates of Urbana, the city’s combined water and sewer rate was the 88th lowest of 89 communities surveyed that have both water and sewer charges. The City of Decatur’s monthly water charge was the 14th lowest of 122 Illinois communities in terms of average monthly water rates only.
The survey compares standard monthly utility and/or municipal water and sewer charges based on a typical residential customer with average metered water usage of 7,000 gallons (935 cubic feet) per month. There are more cities included in the water charge survey because some communities do not have sewer connection fees or roll those fees into other charges.
“This is just another reason that Decatur is such a great place to live,” said City Manager Ryan McCrady. “For years Decatur residents have enjoyed water rates that are among the lowest in the state.
“That, when combined with great housing values, an abundance of recreational activities and other top-notch amenities helps to make this city one of Illinois’ best kept secrets.”
According to the report, the city of Villa Grove has the highest combined monthly water and sewer charge at $89.87 per month which is $60.45 higher than Decatur’s average monthly rate of $29.42. The city of Broadlands, Illinois had the highest water rates at $75 per month, more than $57 higher than Decatur’s average rate of $17.99.
The report will be available this week on the city’s web site at www.decaturil.gov. For more information contact Billy Tyus at 424-2753.