​Spotlight: The true benefits of a water buyout

By Tom Fliege
Peoria Journal Star Letter to Editor
 May 28, 2017 
  
Last October, a committee of the CEO Council presented to the Peoria City Council a study of the city’s option to purchase its water service.

We sought to clarify a very complex issue without resorting to the politics and personality assassination that has marked this issue in the past.

The due diligence we brought to the table was designed to get a close approximation of whether exercising the city’s franchise rights would benefit our community — nothing more, nothing less.

​The reason we had to do the study is because Illinois American Water Company (IAWC) will not release analytical information on the Peoria Water District unless the City Council exercises its option first — a true “Catch 22.” Our study was designed to help the Council make a knowledgeable decision.

Walking up Fulton St. Tuesday night, I noticed neat row of fancy rentable bicycles in front of city hall. These bikes were one of more interesting proclamations at the beginning of the Peoria City Council meeting. The Enjoy Peoria Cycle new bike sharing program was highlighted and it sounds impressive. Mobile app access to this activity is easy and a great idea. Please check it out.
http://www.pjstar.com/news/20170519/peoria-area-gets-bike-friendly-with-new-rental-program.      ​

May 16, 2017 - The annual audit report was reviewed with nothing extraordinary of note.

• The manager reports improved sales volume & inquiries for lots with a very slow start this year, with remarkable progress recently. 
• He reported serious erosion issues as the result of recent rain events. The City of Peoria has help evaluate storm drains and staff has indicated the need to re-engineer many on the site. 

​May 16, 2017 - Mayor Phelan started the meeting at 6:30. Trustee Reichert was absent. Trustee reports on specific areas: Nothing to report for: Economic Development/Village Improvements; Building/Property Maintenance; Fire; and Administration/Personnel. Police Benevolent dinner will be May 19 from 5-8 at Peoria Heights Grade School. Public Works reported the light pole blocking the new parking lot next to the old Grayboy building will be moved.
Comments from the audience: