PUBLIC UTILITIES ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Receive the Quarterly Water Utility Regulatory Report
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DEPARTMENT: Water Utilities
SUBMITTED BY: Darrell Blenniss, Director of Water Utilities
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
N/A
BACKGROUND:
The year 2026 represents a period of high-intensity execution for the Department of Public Utilities. The utility is actively managing a convergence of federal oversight from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and state-level enforcement by the Illinois EPA (IEPA). The era of "voluntary" improvements has effectively transitioned into a framework of statutory deadlines and enforceable standards.
Key regulatory drivers for 2026 include:
Lead Elimination: The accelerated eradication of lead service lines under the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI).
Nutrient Reduction: Capital-intensive mandates for phosphorus removal at the Springbrook Water Reclamation Center (WRC).
Emerging Contaminants: Strict enforcement of PFAS standards and the monitoring of biosolids disposal liabilities.
Cybersecurity: New state requirements under Illinois HB3576 to harden critical infrastructure.
DISCUSSION:
Drinking Water Compliance: Lead Service Line Replacement Program
Staff continues to aggressively implement the Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) program. The utility has adopted a "full replacement" strategy to ensure compliance with the Illinois Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act, replacing both public and private portions of the line simultaneously.
Inventory Status: The electronic inventory submitted to the IEPA indicates lead and galvanized service lines constitute less than 1% of the City’s 47,000+ connections. Approximately 100 lines remain to be addressed as of Q3 2026.
Operational Progress: Following the successful replacement of 71 lines in 2025, operations have moved into the final phase.
Funding: The City has successfully secured a zero-interest loan through the IEPA State...
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