Cresthill approves hardship program to delay smart water‑meter replacements

Crest Hill — The Cresthill City Council on Aug. 4 approved a resolution creating a hardship assistance program for water customers who have not yet replaced old meters with the city’s new smart water meters. The program, presented in the absence of City Administrator Blaine Wing, was introduced by Police Chief Ed Clark on Wing’s behalf as an item the administrator had put before the council. The council adopted the resolution (No. 1333) by roll call vote. City officials said the hardship policy outlines options for customers who need extra time or assistance to replace their existing water meters. Ed Clark, speaking for the administrator, told the council the policy and supporting documentation had been discussed at the prior week’s work session and that he would forward any follow-up questions to the administrator when he returned from vacation. Council members asked no substantive policy questions during the vote. Roll call recorded yes votes from Dorel Jefferson, Claudia Gonzales, Tina Oberlin, Mark (surname garbled in the record), Nate Albert, Joe Cuval, Scott Dyke and Angela Desario; the clerk stated “Motion carries resolution 1333.” The council packet included a hardship policy and guidance on the two hardship options; details on eligibility criteria, application process and any payment terms were not read into the record and were listed in the packet materials. The council’s discussion did not change the policy text on the floor; staff said they would respond to council questions when Blaine Wing returned the next week. City staff also noted the administrator would follow up on emailed questions from council members about the program. Council action: resolution approved; no amendments recorded.