Council reviews first reading of ordinance restricting wells, septic systems inside city limits; suspension to adopt tonight fails

Freeport officials held a first reading of an ordinance that would restrict new private wells and septic systems within the city limits as a measure to protect the municipal water supply.

Director Duchman told the council the proposal aligns with guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Illinois Department of Public Health and is intended to protect source water as Freeport plans substantial investments in well systems. Duchman said two areas on the city’s fringe — a westward expansion area and a wooded area — currently lack service and would receive exceptions where connection is infeasible.

Alderman Sanders pressed staff for documentation demonstrating the evaluations and studies behind the proposal, saying residents need “tangible” evidence that the city performed due diligence on contamination risks and service capacity. Duchman and other staff responded that the rule clarifies existing code, referenced the Source Water Protection concept, and that the city already follows relevant state guidance. He said the ordinance mostly clarifies rules and items had been discussed previously in Committee of the Whole.

Council considered a motion to suspend the rules and adopt the ordinance tonight (mover: Alderman Clem; second: Alderman Shadle); the suspension failed for lack of a two‑thirds majority (vote 4–4), so the ordinance returns for a subsequent council meeting and a public hearing process as required by state practice.

Staff noted the city is preparing major well and system projects (manager referenced nearly $30 million in planned investments) and said the proposed ordinance is intended to protect that investment and the city’s user‑funded water system from nearby private withdrawals or contamination. Aldermen asked that staff provide clearer supporting documentation about the impacts, studies and service maps before the next reading.