Water and sewer bills are on the rise in Palos Heights after aldermen approved a 3.5% rate increase at their Jan. 21 meeting, with the adjustment applying only to usage beginning in January.
Officials said the increase was necessary to account for rising costs.
Infrastructure was another key focus, with $947,510 allocated for projects that include stormwater management, roadway resurfacing, and the reconstruction of Cypress Avenue. The city utilized a digital laser scan to assess street conditions, prioritizing areas most needing repairs.
Public Works Director Adam Smith credited a $50,000 grant for reducing the scan cost, which helped guide decisions on road improvements.
The city also discussed its first payment of $7,100 from Wind Creek Casino, representing three weeks of revenue from November. Officials expect monthly contributions to increase to $8,700 as the casino’s operations stabilize, with the funds earmarked to support various city initiatives.
Mayor Bob Straz called the revenue “a promising new source of funding” for Palos Heights.
Public safety updates included the approval of a measure to increase the number of full-time police officers to 29 and the finalization of a joint task force agreement with the Suburban Emergency Response Team.
Ald. Robert Basso addressed rising concerns about cybercrime, warning residents of scams as tax season approaches. “If someone asks for payment with gift cards or cryptocurrency, it’s a scam,” Basso said, advising residents to stay cautious and secure their belongings following recent thefts from unlocked sheds.
The meeting reflected the city’s ongoing efforts to balance fiscal responsibility, infrastructure upgrades, and public safety improvements as it plans for 2025.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.