Winthrop Harbor Public Work's Water Division
2025
Water and Sewer Rates
Embedded Files
Mayor Dr. Michael Bruno
Public Works Superintendent Tim Neargarder
"The Village of Winthrop Harbor is committed to providing the highest quality water service to our residents and businesses, ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable water systems for our community."
"The Village of Winthrop Harbor is committed to providing the highest quality water service to our residents and businesses, ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable water systems for our community."
Notice to Water and Sewer Customers: Rate Adjustments & Infrastructure Investments
Notice to Water and Sewer Customers: Rate Adjustments & Infrastructure Investments
Overview Summary
To continue providing safe, reliable, and high-quality water and sewer services, the Village of Winthrop Harbor is implementing a necessary rate adjustment and a new capital improvement fee, both effective February 1, 2025. These adjustments, along with the strategic allocation of the majority of Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds received from the federal government, will support critical infrastructure improvements, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our water and sewer systems. The Village has continued its long-standing senior citizen discount for water usage. One of the key projects funded through this initiative is the replacement of outdated water meters and water meter technology. The Village is dedicating $795,000 in Federal ARPA funds, supplemented by a rate adjustment and a new capital improvement fee, to help offset the upfront costs of this project, which is estimated to cost $1.6 million. Overview Summary
A key responsibility was imposed upon the Village by the federal government due to large unaccounted for water losses. As our water supply comes from Lake Michigan, we are required to take all steps necessary to conserve this vital resource and properly account for the water we draw from the lake. Those requirements are imposed on all users of lake water, whether it’s the large cities in Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, etc. or smaller municipalities such as Winthrop Harbor.
Currently, property owners are responsible for both owning and maintaining their water meters, and the cost for a meter replacement is approximately $600 per property. Under this new Village-managed approach, property owners will avoid this upfront expense, as the Village will cover the initial replacement cost. Additionally, the Village will assume ownership and responsibility for maintaining the new meters after installation, ensuring long-term accuracy, reliability, and efficiency—at no additional direct cost to property owners.This program will also include the implementation of new meter reading technology, which will improve efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in water usage monitoring. The upgraded system will allow for better leak detection, more precise billing, and enhanced service responsiveness for our residents and businesses.We recognize that infrastructure improvements can be costly, and we are committed to making this transition as smooth and affordable as possible for our residents and businesses. Investing in these essential upgrades today ensures a strong, resilient water and sewer system for generations to come.Water and Sewer Funding Background
Water and Sewer Funding Background
The Village of Winthrop Harbor operates its water and sewer system as a self-sustaining enterprise fund, meaning that property taxes do not fund water and sewer services. Instead, these services are funded entirely through user fees, charges, and grants, ensuring that only those who use the system contribute to its operation and maintenance. This structure allows the Village to maintain and improve the system without relying on sales and property tax revenues.
Additionally, not all residents in the Village are part of the municipal water and sewer system. Some properties rely on private wells and septic systems and are unaffected by these rate adjustments. The upcoming changes apply only to customers who receive water and sewer services from the Village of Winthrop Harbor and are necessary to support critical infrastructure improvements, including the Water Meter Replacement Program and ongoing system upgrades while maintaining the utility's financial stability.
SEE MORE INFORMATION BELOW UNDER TAB "Understanding Water and Sewer Funding"
Water-Sewer System Studies and Results
Water-Sewer System Studies and Results
A comprehensive study conducted by industry experts and engineers assessed Winthrop Harbor’s water infrastructure, identifying key issues such as aging water meters, high non-revenue water loss, and inefficiencies in the system.
The study revealed that over 30% of water was unaccounted for, largely due to outdated meters that under-register usage, leading to revenue loss and inaccurate billing. Based on these findings, experts recommended a village-wide Water Meter Replacement Program utilizing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology to enhance accuracy, detect leaks in real-time, and improve operational efficiency. In response, the Village strategically integrated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to cover Phase 1 of the replacement program, reducing upfront costs for residents and businesses. The study also guided the Village in planning Phases 2 and 3, ensuring the program's full implementation through responsible rate adjustments while maintaining affordability and long-term system sustainability.
SEE MORE INFORMATION BELOW UNDER TAB "Water Loss Engineering Study"
Water Loss Study CLICK HERE
Water Infrastructure Master Plan Study Report CLICK HERE
Copies of these documents are available for review at Village Hall
Winthrop Harbor Water Meter Replacement Program
Winthrop Harbor Water Meter Replacement Program
The Village of Winthrop Harbor is implementing a three-year Water Meter Replacement Program to upgrade outdated meters, improve billing accuracy, and enhance system efficiency. With over 80% of existing meters exceeding their lifespan, inaccuracies in water usage readings have contributed to revenue loss and inefficiencies. The new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology will allow for remote meter reading, real-time water usage tracking, and early leak detection, ensuring more reliable service for residents and businesses.
Additionally, providing correct billing based on more exact monitoring of water usage is a matter of fundamental fairness. If an aging water meter results in a falsely low reading for one resident, the others with better meters end up paying the difference. We charge according to the needs of the community and the cost of providing service without the profit incentive that private industry has. We constantly strive to make billing as fair and equitable as it is possible to do.
The program is being funded in phases, with Phase 1 fully covered by the federal government's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, minimizing the upfront financial impact on residents. Phases 2 and 3 will be funded through water and sewer rate adjustments, ensuring the program’s full completion without additional upfront installation costs for customers. These upgrades will provide accurate billing, improved water conservation, and a more sustainable water system for the future. Residents will be notified when their meter is scheduled for replacement, and the Village remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition to this modernized system.
SEE MORE INFORMATION BELOW UNDER TAB "Village's Plan "Water Meter Replacement Program"
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) - Federal Grant Funding
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) - Federal Grant Funding
The Village of Winthrop Harbor is implementing a three-year Water Meter Replacement Program to upgrade outdated meters, improve billing accuracy, and enhance system efficiency. With over 80% of existing meters exceeding their lifespan, inaccuracies in water usage readings have contributed to revenue loss and inefficiencies. The new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology will allow for remote meter reading, real-time water usage tracking, and early leak detection, ensuring more reliable service for residents and businesses.
The program is being implemented in phases, with Phase 1 fully funded by Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, minimizing the immediate financial burden on residents. The Village has allocated $795,000 of its $900,608.22 in ARPA funds toward critical water system upgrades. Phases 2 and 3 will be supported through water and sewer rate adjustments and a capital improvement fee, ensuring the project’s full completion without any additional upfront installation costs for customers. These improvements will enhance billing accuracy, promote water conservation, and contribute to a more sustainable water system for the future. Residents will receive advance notification when their meter is scheduled for replacement, and the Village remains dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition to this modernized system.
SEE MORE INFORMATION BELOW UNDER TAB "Village's Plan "Water Meter Replacement Program"
New Water & Sewer Rates and Capital Improvement Fee
New Water & Sewer Rates and Capital Improvement Fee
The Village has been cautious about implementing new fees or tax increases in general, aiming to minimize financial impacts on residents and businesses in general. However, after maximizing all available revenue sources and assessing the increasing demands of system improvements, as well as the recommendations of Village experts, it is clear that a water rate adjustment is necessary.
In addition, the implementation of the Capital Improvement Fee, which is a dedicated charge which is designed to fund long-term infrastructure upgrades and essential improvements to Winthrop Harbor’s water and sewer system. As the Village’s infrastructure continues to age, this fee ensures that critical projects—such as water main replacements, sewer line upgrades, and system modernization efforts—are properly funded without relying on emergency repairs or unsustainable borrowing.
This fee directly supports major investments in the water and sewer system, including the Water Meter Replacement Program, leak detection initiatives, and upgrades to aging pipes, and system components. These improvements will enhance service reliability, reduce costly breakdowns, improve water conservation, and ensure compliance with state and federal environmental and safety regulations. This helps ensure that you and your family have constant access to plentiful high quality water.
This rate adjustment and the capital improvement fee will help secure the long-term financial sustainability of the water and sewer system, allowing the Village to modernize aging infrastructure, reduce water loss, and maintain a high-quality, reliable water supply for the community. By implementing a strategic, responsible approach, the Village will continue to invest in its future while balancing affordability for residents and businesses.
SEE MORE INFORMATION BELOW UNDER TAB "Village's Plan "Water Meter Replacement Program"
New Water & Sewer Rates and Capital Improvement Fee
New Water & Sewer Rates and Capital Improvement Fee
The Village has been cautious about implementing new fees or tax increases aiming to minimize financial impacts on residents and businesses. However, after maximizing all available revenue sources and assessing the increasing demands of system improvements, as well as the recommendations of outside independent experts, it is clear that a water rate adjustment is necessary.
In addition, the implementation of the Capital Improvement Fee, which is a dedicated charge. This charge is designed to fund long-term infrastructure upgrades and essential improvements to Winthrop Harbor’s water and sewer system. As the Village’s infrastructure continues to age, this fee ensures that critical projects—such as water main replacements, sewer line upgrades, and system modernization efforts—are properly funded without relying on emergency repairs or unsustainable borrowing.
This fee directly supports major investments in the water and sewer system, including the Water Meter Replacement Program, leak detection initiatives, and upgrades to aging pipes, and system components. These improvements will enhance service reliability, reduce costly breakdowns, improve water conservation, and ensure compliance with state and federal environmental and safety regulations.
This rate adjustment and the capital improvement fee will help secure the long-term financial sustainability of the water and sewer system, allowing the Village to modernize aging infrastructure, reduce water loss, and maintain a high-quality, reliable water supply for the community. By implementing a strategic, responsible approach, the Village will continue to invest in its future while balancing affordability for residents and businesses.
SEE MORE INFORMATION BELOW UNDER TAB "New Water & Sewer Rates"
Senior Citizen Discount
Senior Citizen Discount
The Village offers a Senior Citizen Water Rate Discount for residents aged 65 and older who permanently reside in a single-family home within the Village. The water account must be registered in the applicant’s or their spouse’s name, and proof of age is required through a valid driver’s license, state ID, or birth certificate.
This program provides a 10% discount on the water portion of the bill, with no minimum or maximum usage requirements. Sewer services are not included in the discount. The goal is to offer financial relief to senior residents while ensuring fair and accessible benefits. For more information or assistance, seniors can contact the Village Clerk’s office.
For more information on this rate adjustment, please visit the Village’s website, www.winthropharbor.com. You can also email publicworks@winthropharbor.com or call 847-872-5275.
Public Service Educational Outreach
Public Service Educational Outreach
As part of our commitment to keeping the community informed, Village staff has compiled important information regarding the current condition of the water system. This includes a detailed review of system data, the factors considered in the rate adjustment, and the introduction of a capital improvement fee.
For a more in-depth understanding of the Village’s water and sewer system, as well as our action plan for improvements, click the arrow below to access detailed reports and updates.
How Do the Current Water Meters Work
How Do the Current Water Meters Work
The majority of the water meters in the Village work using mechanical components to measure water flow. Water enters the meter, moving a turbine, piston, or disk inside the measuring chamber. This motion is transmitted through gears to an analog register, displaying cumulative water usage. They lack electronic features, require manual reading, and may lose accuracy over time, especially at low flow rates.
Village’s Water & Sewer System Overview
Village’s Water & Sewer System Overview
Winthrop Harbor’s water and sewer infrastructure continues to support the community, but strategic upgrades will enhance its reliability and efficiency in the future. To guide these improvements, the Village has drafted a Water Infrastructure Master Plan outlining a proactive approach to modernization and long-term sustainability. The 35-mile water distribution system, primarily built between the 1950s and 1980s, has served residents well but is now due for upgrades.
The Village receives its water supply from the Lake County Public Water District (LCPWD) and currently lacks local water storage, relying entirely on LCPWD’s reserves. The system operates with two pressure zones, with older infrastructure concentrated in the eastern portion of the Village, particularly in the TIF district. Water mains range from 6 to 12 inches in diameter, with materials including cast iron, ductile iron, PVC, and transite. Many of these pipes are approaching or exceeding their expected lifespan, increasing the need for a proactive replacement program. Additionally, aging water meters contribute to inaccurate readings and potential revenue loss, making a meter replacement program a key priority for improving service efficiency.
Similarly, the sanitary sewer system spans 27 miles and connects to the North Shore Water Reclamation District (NSWRD). It includes 544 sanitary manholes and one Village-maintained lift station at Village Park. , The system has a strong foundation but requires targeted upgrades to maintain performance. The system is composed primarily of vitrified clay and PVC pipes, with inflow and infiltration (I/I) concerns in aging sections, particularly in the eastern part of the Village. The Village owns one lift station at Village Park, while another is maintained by the North Shore Water Reclamation District (NSWRD). While few major sanitary sewer overflows have been reported recently, continued monitoring, maintenance, and rehabilitation are essential to prevent future issues.
The Water Infrastructure Master Plan provides a framework for condition assessments, capital improvement projects, and funding strategies. By implementing a long-term rehabilitation and replacement strategy, upgrading aging infrastructure, and improving system management, the Village is well-positioned to enhance long-term resilience and ensure high-quality service for residents and businesses.
Understanding Water and Sewer Funding
Understanding Water and Sewer Funding
A municipal enterprise water and sewer fund functions similarly to a water fund but encompasses both water and sewer services. This type of fund operates as an enterprise fund, designed to be self-sufficient, meaning it covers its operating and capital costs through revenues generated by user fees, charges, and other related income rather than relying on general municipal property taxes. PROPERTY TAXES DO NOT FUND THE WATER AND SEWER SERVICES.
Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
1. Combined Revenue Sources
The fund draws revenue from both water and sewer services, which are typically billed together. Key revenue streams include:
· Water usage fees: Based on metered consumption of water by households, businesses, and industries.
· Sewer usage fees: Often calculated as a percentage of water consumption, since wastewater flow typically correlates with water usage.
· Connection or tap fees: Charges for new connections to the water or sewer system.
· Penalties: Fees for late payments or violations of water/sewer regulations.
· Grants and loans: External funding from state or federal programs for infrastructure projects.
2. Cost Recovery
The enterprise fund is designed to achieve full cost recovery, which includes covering:
a) Water System Costs:
· Purchase of water to meet drinking water standards.
· Distribution system maintenance (pipes, reservoirs, and meters).
· Compliance with federal (e.g., EPA Safe Drinking Water Act) and state water quality regulations.
b) Sewer System Costs:
· Collection and transport of wastewater via sewer pipelines.
· Maintenance of sewer infrastructure, including pumping stations and treatment plants.
c) Shared Costs:
· Personnel, administrative, and customer service expenses.
· Capital improvement projects, such as replacing aging pipes or upgrading treatment facilities.
· Debt repayment for bonds or loans issued for major infrastructure projects.
· Emergency reserves for unforeseen repairs or regulatory changes.
3. Rate Setting
Water and sewer rates are set based on cost-of-service studies, which assess:
· Current and projected operating costs.
· Capital needs for maintaining and expanding infrastructure.
· Regulatory compliance costs.
· Revenue sufficiency to meet the fund's financial goals.
4. Long-Term Planning
The fund supports sustainable operations by planning for:
· Infrastructure renewal: Addressing aging pipelines, treatment plants, and other facilities.
· Capacity expansion: Preparing for population growth and increased demand.
· Environmental compliance: Adapting to stricter environmental and wastewater discharge regulations.
Advantages of a Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund
Self-Sufficiency: Minimizes reliance on taxes by operating through user fees.
Transparency: Clearly links revenues to the specific services provided.
Encourages Efficiency: Promotes conservation and cost-effective management through user-pays principles.
Equity: Charges users based on their actual consumption and impact on the system.
Challenges
Rate Affordability: Balancing cost recovery with residents' ability to pay.
Aging Infrastructure: Meeting the substantial costs of replacing outdated water and sewer systems.
Regulatory Pressures: Keeping up with evolving water quality and environmental standards.
Capital Needs: Securing funding for large-scale projects without excessively increasing rates.
In summary, a municipal enterprise water and sewer fund operates like a business within the government, ensuring both water and wastewater services are financially sustainable, reliable, and environmentally compliant. It requires careful management of revenues, costs, and investments to meet community needs effectively.
Water Loss Engineering Study
Water Loss Engineering Study
The Water Loss Study for Winthrop Harbor was triggered by the Village’s ongoing efforts to assess and improve its water infrastructure, as well as compliance requirements with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake Michigan Water Allocation Program. The IDNR mandates that all utilities using Lake Michigan water must track their non-revenue water and submit an annual Water Use Audit (LMO-2 form). If a utility reports non-revenue water exceeding 10%, it must develop an action plan to address the losses. Winthrop Harbor’s non-revenue water has significantly been above the IDNR threshold, prompting the need for a detailed study to identify and mitigate water losses.
Additionally, concerns over aging infrastructure, rising operational costs, and lost revenue motivated the Village to conduct a more thorough Water Loss Study. The study was also a key recommendation from the 2022 Water Infrastructure Master Plan, which highlighted the need for system assessments, leak detection, and meter replacements to improve efficiency and long-term sustainability. By identifying real and apparent losses, the Village can develop a strategic plan to reduce water loss, improve revenue collection, and enhance the overall reliability of the water system.
Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake Michigan Water Allocation Program Information CLICK HERE
Current Water Meter Status & Village Response
Current Water Meter Status & Village Response
Ownership of Current Water Meters
Ownership of Current Water Meters
Under Section 50.025 (B)(9) of the Village of Winthrop Harbor Municipal Code, property owners are responsible for all costs of repairing or replacing water meters due to damage, wear, or obsolescence, as determined by the Superintendent of Public Works. Meters must be purchased from the Village at the actual cost plus a 5% administrative fee. Owners bear the full expense of installation, which must be inspected and approved before water service is activated.
https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/winthropharbor/latest/winthropharbor_il/0-0-0-29993
Most homes currently have a Touchpad mounted to the outside of their home, by which the Village obtains a water meter reading. To do this, the technician must walk up to the Touchpad and physically touch the handheld reader to the Touchpad. The handheld registers the reading of the meter inside your home. Based on the findings of the Water Loss Study, the Winthrop Harbor Public Work’s Water Division will be replacing the majority of the 2,500 water meters within the Village as part of its three-year Water Meter Replacement Program.
Current Condition of Village Water Meters
Current Condition of Village Water Meters
It is estimated that over 80% of residential water meters are 30 years old or older, which is well beyond the typical lifecycle of 15 to 20 years for a mechanical meter.
Old water meters contribute to Non-Revenue Water (NRW) loss by under-registering water usage due to wear and tear, sediment buildup, and reduced sensitivity to low flow rates. This under-registration leads to inaccurate billing and unmeasured consumption. Furthermore, these older meters often lack modern features like smart metering, making it more difficult to detect leaks, theft, or anomalies. They are also more susceptible to tampering. These issues inflate the apparent loss component of Non-Revenue Water, resulting in revenue losses, distorted data, and operational inefficiencies. Industry benchmarks indicate that older meters can under-register water usage by as much as 50%.
How Do the Current Water Meters Work
How Do the Current Water Meters Work
The majority of the water meters in the Village work using mechanical components to measure water flow. Water enters the meter, moving a turbine, piston, or disk inside the measuring chamber. This motion is transmitted through gears to an analog register, displaying cumulative water usage. They lack electronic features, require manual reading, and may lose accuracy over time, especially at low flow rates.
Water Meter Video
https://youtu.be/hxuFuT-RQyI?si=e4bJE-OiS_f-paHN
Non-Revenue Water (NRW)
Non-Revenue Water (NRW)
Non-Revenue Water (NRW) refers to the volume of water produced by a utility that does not generate revenue. This loss includes water that is lost due to physical leaks, unauthorized consumption (such as theft or illegal connections), inaccuracies in metering, billing errors, or water provided for free that is not billed (for example, water used for firefighting or public fountains). NRW is a widespread global issue that negatively impacts the environment by wasting potable water, increases costs for utilities, and can affect service levels and water quality.
Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake Michigan Water Allocation Program
Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake Michigan Water Allocation Program
Under the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake Michigan Water Allocation Program, the permitted loss for water systems is set at 8% or less of net annual pumpage or purchased water for water provider. This means the total unaccounted-for water losses in a system, which include physical losses (e.g., leaks) and apparent losses (e.g., metering inaccuracies), must not exceed 8% of the water pumped annually.
Permittees must implement water conservation measures and maintain efficient system operations to stay within this limit, ensuring compliance with both state regulations and the U.S. Supreme Court Decree regulating Illinois' diversion of Lake Michigan water.
The Village is currently experiencing over 30% non-revenue water (NRW) losses. It must take steps to comply with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake Michigan Water Allocation Program standards.
Village Response - Leak Detection & Water System Loss Study
Village Response - Leak Detection & Water System Loss Study
A Water System Loss Study is an analysis aimed at identifying, measuring, and addressing water losses within a utility's distribution system. It focused on three types of losses: physical (real) losses from leaks and breaks; metering inaccuracies and theft; and unbilled authorized consumption, such as for firefighting.
Key Benefits:
Reduces non-revenue water.
Improves system efficiency and reliability.
Conserves water and energy.
Provides actionable data for decision-making.
Enhances financial performance and regulatory compliance.
In recent years, the Village has contracted a company specializing in leak detection, which has not found significant leaks in the areas tested within the system.
In 2024, the Village hired Baxter & Woodman Consulting Engineers to conduct a Water Loss Study. The study identified water meter inaccuracies as the primary cause of apparent water losses in the Village. The study recommended a water meter replacement program that would enable the Village to improve accuracy, conduct inspections, and maintain detailed records for each property simultaneously. While the main goal is to reduce apparent losses, the detailed records will also assist with annual IDNR reporting and future capital planning.
Village's Plan "Water Meter Replacement Program"
Village's Plan "Water Meter Replacement Program"
To address the current challenges with our aging water infrastructure, the Winthrop Harbor Public Works Water Division is launching a three-year Water Meter Replacement Program. This initiative will involve replacing the of the 2,500+ water meters within the Village to ensure improved accuracy, reliability, and efficiency in our water services. A portion of this project has been funded by ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).
Under the Water Meter Replacement Program, the cost of the newly installed water meters will be fully covered by the Village, and the meters will remain Village-owned. This investment eliminates the upfront expense for residents, saving them hundreds of dollars while ensuring a seamless transition to modern, efficient water metering technology.
The Village is making a significant investment in modernizing our water system to enhance efficiency, improve accuracy, and address water loss challenges. As part of this effort, we are excited to announce the implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) as a key component of our Water Meter Replacement Program. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a modern system of smart meters, communication networks, and data management systems that enable two-way communication between utility providers and customers. It is primarily used for monitoring and managing the consumption of utilities like water, electricity, or gas. AMI is an advanced, automated solution for utility management that improves efficiency, reduces costs, and empowers customers with real-time consumption insights. A portion of this system has been funded by ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).More Infor @ https://www.epa.gov/watersense/advanced-metering-infrastructure
Water Meter Ownership Under Water Meter Replacement Program
Under the Water Meter Replacement Program, the cost of the newly installed water meters will be fully covered by the Village, and the meters will remain Village-owned. This investment eliminates the upfront expense for residents, saving them hundreds of dollars while ensuring a seamless transition to modern, efficient water metering technology. Water Meter Ownership Under Water Meter Replacement Program
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
The Village is making a significant investment in modernizing our water system to enhance efficiency, improve accuracy, and address water loss challenges. As part of this effort, we are excited to announce the implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) as a key component of our Water Meter Replacement Program. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a modern system of smart meters, communication networks, and data management systems that enable two-way communication between utility providers and customers. It is primarily used for monitoring and managing the consumption of utilities like water, electricity, or gas. AMI is an advanced, automated solution for utility management that improves efficiency, reduces costs, and empowers customers with real-time consumption insights. A portion of this system has been funded by ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).More Infor @ https://www.epa.gov/watersense/advanced-metering-infrastructureAdvanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
As water utilities look to replace older water meters, another option has emerged. AMI meters provide for remote collection of water use data - in real time. This supports more frequent billing, but more importantly also allows a utility to quickly identify excessive water use that could be the result of leaks. This new technology will enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of our water metering system.
GIS (Geographic Information System)
GIS (Geographic Information System)
In preparation and as a part of the Water Meter Replacement Program, a GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping system has been developed and implemented. GIS is essential for water systems because it provides a visual, data-driven representation of water infrastructure, including pipes, valves, meters, and hydrants. GIS enables utilities to efficiently manage assets, identify leaks or breaks, and plan maintenance or upgrades with precision. It improves decision-making by integrating spatial data with real-time information, helping reduce water loss, optimize resource allocation, and enhance service reliability. Additionally, GIS supports long-term planning and emergency response, ensuring a more resilient and efficient water distribution system. The development of the GIS system has been funded by ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is a federal stimulus bill signed into law in March 2021 to aid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It provided $1.9 trillion in funding, including direct aid to state and local governments for infrastructure projects. Municipalities like Winthrop Harbor can use ARPA funds for water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure improvements, helping to replace aging systems, improve water quality, and support long-term sustainability efforts. Additionally, ARPA funding can reimburse the Village for lost revenue due to the pandemic, providing financial flexibility to support essential services and infrastructure investments outlined in the Water Infrastructure Master Plan.
The Village of Winthrop Harbor has taken a proactive approach to improving its water infrastructure by allocating $$795,000 of its $900,608.22 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds toward critical water system upgrades. This investment demonstrates the Village’s commitment to modernizing its water operations, reducing water loss, and ensuring long-term sustainability without placing an immediate financial burden on residents.
By leveraging ARPA funds, the Village can implement key improvements such as upgrading outdated water meters and enhancing leak detection efforts. These initiatives align with recommendations from the Water Infrastructure Master Plan and Water Loss Study, which identified aging pipes, outdated meters, and non-revenue water losses as priority issues. The funding will allow for strategic infrastructure upgrades that not only improve the reliability of the water system but also increase operational efficiency and financial stability by reducing costly water loss.
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Total Expenditures
PW & FIRST RESPONDERS PAY 35,500.00
Water Loss Study 11,000.00
Water GIS Mapping 18,000.00
PW Roof Replacement 70,000.00
Water and Sewer Expansion
Engineering (Sheridan Road) 75,900.00
Water Meter Procurement, Water Meter Installer
Selection, and Water Meter Installation
Project Management 106,500.00
Water Meter Purchase Yr 1 290,310.00
Meter Installation Yr 1 $164,217 + contingency $30,000.00 194,217.00
Meter Communications Total 99,181.22
________________________________________________________________________
Total ARPA Projects Expenditures 900,608.22
ARPA Funds 900,608.22
New Water & Sewer Rates
New Water & Sewer Rates
Village of Winthrop Harbor: Water System Investment & Rate Adjustment
Village of Winthrop Harbor: Water System Investment & Rate Adjustment
The Village of Winthrop Harbor has historically authorized water rate increases infrequently, with a notable gap between 1992 and 2008, during which no rate increases were implemented. Over the last 30+ years, this limited number of adjustments has restricted available funding for critical infrastructure improvements. The two most recent rate increases occurred in August 2017 and 2023. In 2017, the Village adjusted rates from $5.00 per thousand gallons to $6.00 per thousand, along with a $27.00 debt service fee from the Lake County Public Water District’s (LCPWD) $4 million bond. The next increase took place in 2023, when rates were raised by 5% to $6.33 per thousand gallons. While these adjustments were necessary, the long intervals between increases have created challenges in funding essential infrastructure upgrades to maintain and modernize the Village’s aging water system.
Investing in Infrastructure & Addressing Rising Costs
Investing in Infrastructure & Addressing Rising Costs
Consistent investment in the Village’s water infrastructure is essential to prevent service disruptions and costly emergency repairs. Deferring water main replacements and other critical upgrades increases the risk of water main breaks, boil orders, and interruptions to service. To modernize the system, the Village is currently undertaking a $1.5 million project to replace all water meters, ensuring greater accuracy in water usage measurement and reducing non-revenue water losses. Additionally, inflation, rising material costs, and increasing energy expenses continue to elevate the cost of operating and maintaining the water system.
Ensuring Financial Sustainability
Ensuring Financial Sustainability
The Village has been cautious about implementing new fees or tax increases, aiming to minimize financial impacts on residents and businesses in general. However, after maximizing all available revenue sources and assessing the increasing demands of system improvements, as well as the recommendations of Village experts, it is clear that a water rate adjustment is necessary. This adjustment will help secure the long-term financial sustainability of the water system, allowing the Village to modernize aging infrastructure, reduce water loss, and maintain a high-quality, reliable water supply for the community. By implementing a strategic, responsible approach, the Village will continue to invest in its future while balancing affordability for residents and businesses.
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