Morton tightens licensing and revocation process for sewer contractors

The Village of Morton on May 19 adopted Ordinance 26‑O3 amending Article 8.3‑4.1 of the municipal code to revise licensing, bonding and fee requirements for excavators and contractors doing sewer, sanitary connection or storm drain work within village limits. The ordinance creates a clearer process to manage licenses, including grounds for nonrenewal or revocation and an appeals path that can be heard before the village board or a delegated hearing officer.

Public Works staff and Corporation Counsel Pat explained the change is intended to address recurring workmanship and inspection issues that arise when excavators perform deep outside work tying into village infrastructure. Counsel described the hearing-before-the-board option as a prudent way to ensure public record and accountability for a contractor whose work prompts license revocation; the ordinance allows the board to delegate hearings if appropriate.

Trustees voted to adopt the ordinance. Staff said the change aligns Morton with other communities that have enacted similar controls and will give village staff better tools to enforce standards on work that connects to the municipal sewer system.