Residents press Dolton officials over basement flooding and a 10-unit water-billing minimum

Residents at the Village of Dolton meeting described stormwater and basement flooding after heavy rain and questioned a standing 10-unit minimum on water bills that can add $20–$30 to household charges.

Resident David Marorrow told trustees he used six or seven units in recent months but is billed for 10 units, costing him an extra $22.50 to $30 per billing period. "I'm being charged for 10 units every month," Marorrow said, and asked what the extra charge funds.

A village representative said the 10-unit minimum is set in ordinance to cover basic consumption and to contribute to infrastructure maintenance. Village Administrator Bill Manisopoulos later described several technical steps the village will pursue with engineers to reduce interior flooding and street backups: home-level measures such as rubber plugs for floor drains and one-way exterior check valves to prevent backflow; system-level work including televising (video inspection) and jetting sewer lines, and lining or repairing damaged sections where needed.

Manisopoulos told the board that public works received only two calls about interior house flooding the morning after the rain event and encouraged residents to meet with staff for questions and next steps. He also noted that some streets had surface flooding that will recede as lines clear but that problem pipes will be targeted for inspection and repair.

The mayor and trustees said they will continue to evaluate whether the 10-unit minimum warrants a broader review; no formal change or vote on the billing policy was reported at the meeting.

Residents were also advised about local relief resources and invited to speak with village staff after the meeting for one-on-one assistance.