Village approves preliminary resolution to use special assessments for Brookside Gardens water-main improvements

The Village Board approved a preliminary resolution authorizing staff to begin the special-assessment process for water-main improvements within and adjacent to the Brookside Gardens subdivision (South Kenosha area). The project includes replacement of existing mains with PVC to resist soil corrosion, construction of a roughly 600-foot, 12-inch water main to strengthen service to the Northeast pressure zone, and installation of service connections for parcels that currently lack municipal water.

Village engineering staff Kurt (speaker 13) explained that the proposed assessments would apply only to newly constructed improvements that provide a direct benefit (for example, new service connections to properties that previously lacked access) and that existing mains being replaced generally would not be assessed because the improvement already existed. Kurt said staff plans to defer assessments until properties develop, subdivide or connect to the water system so landowners can postpone payment until they begin to receive direct benefit.

Staff will prepare a full assessment report, establish an assessment schedule and hold a public hearing for property owners before the board takes any final assessment action. The board approved the preliminary resolution to proceed with that process.

Next steps: the engineering department will prepare an assessment report, publish notices, and set a public hearing where property owners may review and comment on proposed assessment amounts and schedules.