Wasco sanitary district outlines water capacity issues during Town Center planning discussion

In a recent special meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the Village of Campton Hills, significant discussions centered around the future of commercial development and infrastructure capacity in the area. The meeting, held on May 22, 2025, highlighted the ongoing updates to the village's comprehensive plan, particularly regarding the potential development of a Town Center.

The conversation began with a reference to a plan proposed by Patsy Smith, which includes the construction of commercial units near a roundabout in the village. While this plan remains an option in the comprehensive plan, officials emphasized that it does not represent a definitive commitment to development. Instead, it reflects community input gathered during public meetings where residents voted on various proposals.

A critical point raised during the meeting was the capacity of the Wasco sanitary district to support new developments. The district's president noted that they currently lack the necessary water and wastewater capacity to accommodate additional commercial or residential projects. This limitation poses a significant barrier to the realization of the proposed mixed-use concept, which aims to integrate residential, commercial, and elder care facilities within the village.

Commission members acknowledged the importance of addressing these infrastructure challenges before any development could proceed. They recognized that engineering studies indicate a need for additional spray fields to manage wastewater effectively. Without resolving these capacity issues, the envisioned mixed-use development cannot move forward.

The discussions underscored the delicate balance between community aspirations for growth and the practical limitations of existing infrastructure. As the village continues to update its comprehensive plan, the need for a strategic approach to development that considers both community desires and capacity constraints will be essential.

Looking ahead, the commission will need to prioritize solutions for the water and wastewater challenges to ensure that any future development aligns with the village's goals and the needs of its residents. The outcome of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of Campton Hills.