Susan Sorel criticizes Lisle village over water discrimination and property damage

During the recent Village of Lisle Board Meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding water service issues and property management in the Oakview area. Resident Susan Sorel voiced her frustrations, highlighting what she described as long-standing discrimination against her community in terms of water access and property rights.

Sorel pointed out that the village had taken $2 million from the Oakview Water Fund to upgrade its own water infrastructure, raising questions about the allocation of resources. She criticized the village for issuing permits to Illinois American Water, which she claimed resulted in the destruction of $30 million worth of private property without proper oversight or final inspections. This lack of accountability, she argued, has left residents vulnerable and without adequate water service.

The resident also expressed her dissatisfaction with the village's handling of property disputes, noting confusion over ownership between the village and local associations. Sorel emphasized that residents have been waiting for deeds to be signed for water service connections since the 1960s, suggesting that the village has neglected its responsibilities for decades.

Moreover, Sorel highlighted the financial burden on Oakview residents, stating that their water bills are disproportionately high compared to those in other parts of Lisle. She shared her personal experience, revealing that her monthly water bill reached nearly $170 for 4,200 gallons, a stark contrast to what she estimated would be around $22 for similar usage in the rest of the village.

Sorel's passionate plea underscored a broader sentiment of frustration among Oakview residents, who feel overlooked and discriminated against despite paying the same tax rates as other Lisle residents. She urged the village board to take immediate action to rectify these issues, warning that if no progress is made by the end of June, she would pursue further action, potentially involving legal avenues.

The discussions from this meeting reflect ongoing tensions regarding resource allocation and community equity in Lisle, raising important questions about how local governance addresses the needs of all its residents. As the village considers its next steps, the implications of these concerns could resonate throughout the community, particularly for those in underserved areas like Oakview.