What can you expect?

Effective May 1, 2023, water and sanitary sewer rates will increase by $0.26 and $0.44 per 1,000 gallons, respectively. The water rate will increase to $6.15 per 1,000 gallons with a minimum quarterly charge of $43.05. The sanitary sewer rate will increase to $1.70 per 1,000 gallons with a minimum quarterly charge of $11.90.

Why now?

In 2022, the Village engaged a consultant to assist in conducting a comprehensive water and sanitary sewer rate study to develop a fair, equitable, and sustainable rate structure for the long-term fiscal health and maintenance of the Village’s water and sanitary sewer utilities. The consultant advised the Village that a moderate rate increase tied to the amount of water and sanitary sewer use was necessary to support the overall cost of maintaining a safe water system and addressing capital repairs that are required annually to both the water and sanitary sewer systems. The last rate increase for both utilities was in May 2018.

How is this revenue used by the Village?

The water and sanitary sewer utilities are entirely funded by fees, not property tax revenue. This means that utility rates must generate enough revenue to cover operating costs of the water and sanitary sewer utilities, and provide for future capital needs.  The revenue that will be collected from increased rates will support critical water and sewer infrastructure investments needed to ensure long-term safe drinking water and sanitary sewer operations.

How does this impact me?

For the average Northbrook bill, these rate changes will result in a $10.50 increase per quarter. As shown in the graph below, Northbrook's rates have been and will remain one of the lowest in the area, even after the rate change goes into effect. When the Village Board approved the rate increases in December 2022, they simultaneously decreased the property tax levy.

For more information visit northbrook.il.us/utilitybilling.