Water works: water‑main breaks, Durban testing and 4th Street replacement set to mobilize in March

Agency official told council the city has responded to three water‑main breaks this season and has coordinated sampling and public notices with the Illinois EPA and the Monroe County Health Department. "We've been knocking on doors when appropriate" and posting on social media and the website, the official said.

Staff reported Durban Unit 14 will have liquid‑fuel testing this week and Unit 11 engine repairs are progressing after a cylinder issue; crews and contractor Alta‑offer worked together and staff expect Unit 11 online soon. The updates were presented as part of the city’s routine utility operations report.

Presenter Nathan outlined the upcoming 4th Street water‑main replacement project and said the mobilization date is about two weeks away (projected around March 23). The first phase will install a new main along the centerline, pressure test and complete hot taps; old mains will be capped and abandoned. Nathan warned the council of likely parking challenges due to prolonged parked vehicles and said the city will send letters to residents and place mobilization signs.

On renewables, staff said the fair solar credit paid to net‑metered customers is increasing from about 4¢ per kilowatt‑hour (the prior figure cited as 0.385¢ in the record) to just over 7¢ and that the rate will run in effect starting March 1; staff expect to bring the item to council on Feb. 17 for formal action.

Staff asked residents to prepare laterals and consider camera inspections prior to street work; the city will coordinate with the contractor HMG and provide daily on‑site contact during construction.

Next steps: staff will send resident notices, finalize mobilization signage and return with any approvals or permit updates required before construction.