Concerns over inadequate water and sewer services dominated the Will County Board Meeting on December 19, 2024, as residents from District 8 voiced urgent pleas for assistance. Over nine families in the area are reportedly living without proper access to clean water and sewage systems, prompting a passionate appeal from a local advocate who has been reaching out to county representatives for three years without success.

The advocate highlighted the dire conditions faced by families, including illegal sewer connections and health risks associated with high radon levels. "We don’t live in a third-world country. We deserve the right to have clean water and sewer," she stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Despite her repeated attempts to engage with local officials, including former council member Mr. Brooks and current representative Ms. Winfrey, she reported a lack of response and action on their part.

The advocate criticized the county's handling of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, which she claimed was allocated to other projects while her community's needs were overlooked. "You had $134 million of ARPA funding... and you chose to take it off," she lamented, calling for accountability and immediate action to address the water crisis.

In a surprising turn, the discussion revealed that the issue may extend beyond individual neighborhoods, with indications that it has become a regional problem requiring collaboration between the township, county, and city of Joliet. However, the advocate expressed frustration at the slow pace of progress, stating, "We don’t have another year."

The meeting also touched on property assessment issues in Fairmont, where disparities in tax bills among similar properties raised concerns about fairness and transparency. Julie Connor, a resident, presented evidence of significant tax reductions for certain investors, calling it an "unfair" practice that undermines the community.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for action on water and sewer services remained palpable, with residents hoping that their voices would finally lead to meaningful change. The county board's next steps in addressing these pressing issues will be closely watched by the affected families and the broader community.