Dieterich Board Discusses Water Rates

Dieterich village board members discussed water rates, and whether they should be adjusted due to a hike in the rates paid by the village.

Dieterich Village Clerk Brittny Gipson said when the village contracted with EJ Water Cooperative for treated water, it was agreed that the rates paid by the village would go up when the cooperative began providing soft water. Changes made at the EJ treatment plant at Gila are allowing soft water to be provided to the district, so the rates have gone up.

There was discussion at this week's meeting as to whether those rate increases should be passed along to village residents. Trustees agreed to monitor the impact of the increased rates on the village and then will decide after the first of the year whether rates to residents should be raised.

The Board reviewed results of a meeting with Illinois Department of Natural Resources on a hydaulic study done by IDNR following a significant flood of the creek that runs through Dieterich in 2008. Trustees agreed to request approval from IDNR for straightening a bend in the creek near Virginia Street. Involvement and approval is also needed from the US Army Corps of Engineers and the EPA, so the process is expected to be a lengthy one.

Residents of Prairie Drive were on hand to see whether progress had been made on getting drainage improved on their street. The residents heard that a contractor has been hired to make some improvements to the street. The Board also heard from Jake and Michelle Hartke, who asked to purchase a portion of the village park so they can build a house. The Hartkes currently live in that area, and would like to stay there. Trustees discussed the request in closed session, but there was no action.

The Board renewed a lease with Rides Mass Transit to house a radio antenna on the water tower, and agreed to rezone 207 Maple Street from R-4 multiple dwelling, attached single family dwelling and mobile home district to B-1 general commercial district. Old Mac's Barn has purchased the lot, which is next to their store, to use for parking. It was also agreed to let the owners of 103 South Roman Drive tile their ditch.