DuPage County approves multiple water quality grant projects with Westmont

The DuPage County Stormwater Management Committee convened on June 3, 2025, to address several key issues related to local water management and environmental concerns. The meeting began with a discussion about a recent fish kill incident, which raised questions among committee members. A member expressed concern over the cause of the fish kill, which was attributed to a natural turnover of water and low oxygen levels in ponds, a situation exacerbated by the dry conditions experienced in the region. It was noted that such occurrences are not uncommon in DuPage County, particularly in spring, and that the fish populations typically recover through natural restocking.

Following this discussion, the committee moved on to review the annual report submitted to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). The report, which consolidates data from all municipalities and townships in DuPage County, aims to reduce the reporting burden on local governments. The committee confirmed that the report had been successfully submitted.

The meeting then transitioned to a series of motions regarding intergovernmental agreements for various water quality projects in collaboration with the Village of Westmont. The committee approved three separate projects, each aimed at enhancing detention naturalization efforts. The projects are scheduled to run from June 10, 2025, to June 30, 2026, with funding not exceeding $14,750 for the North Adams Street project, $5,865 for the North Lincoln project, and $14,230 for the South LaMet Avenue project.

In addition, the committee discussed a contract for annual subscription services with Exela, covering various platforms related to building, zoning, public works, stormwater, and transportation. The contract, valued at $1,144,575, is set for a duration of four years, with a negotiated price freeze for the first three years and a 5% increase in the final two years.

The meeting concluded with all motions passing unanimously, reflecting the committee's commitment to advancing water quality initiatives and addressing environmental challenges in DuPage County. The next steps include the implementation of the approved projects and continued monitoring of local water conditions.