LaSalle council backs low bid for lead service-line replacement, contingent on IEPA loan

LaSalle city council voted to accept the low bid for a multi-year lead service-line replacement project and authorized staff to proceed subject to contract execution and contingent upon the city securing a low-interest loan through the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Public Water Supply Loan Program.

Donnie Hughes recommended awarding the contract to the low bidder; a motion to accept the recommendation was read into the record and carried on roll call. In the discussion preceding the vote, council members and staff described the contractor’s proposed use of directional boring and the need to verify underground utilities (potholing) to avoid damaging sewer or other lines. Council sought assurances that connections would be made safely and that service-line replacement would include the resident side (from main to meter). Staff confirmed the program "includes the resident side" and the meter work.

Council discussed pacing and scale: the contractor has a minimum annual target (100 per year, up to 500 over five years was discussed), and staff estimated there are about 1,400 total lead service lines in town — meaning the initial contract would cover a little more than one-third of the anticipated total. Councilmembers asked about the program timeline and whether the city could seek additional forgiveness when pursuing future low-interest loans; staff said they would evaluate progress and pursue further funding if the work proceeds quickly.

The motion was carried with standard roll-call affirmations recorded by the clerk; the award is contingent on final contract execution and IEPA loan approval.