Lombard reduces rain barrel reimbursements

When Lombard introduced its residential rain barrel grant program in June 2008, the price of water service was increasing and rain barrels were a relatively new idea in the suburbs.

Two years and 206 barrels later, the village board voted to reimburse residents for only one rain barrel instead of two and to cut the rate of reimbursement from $80 to $40.

“The costs (for barrels) have really come down significantly since we started this program a few years ago, Trustee Dana Moreau said.

Moreau said most barrels used to cost $200, but basic ones now can be found for between $80 and $100.

“We didn't need to offer such a substantial grant when the price has halved, Moreau said.

Rain barrels collect water from gutter downspouts and store it for later use to sprinkle lawns or gardens.

Moreau said hers an old whiskey barrel collects enough water that she usually can keep her gardens hydrated without turning on the hose. But residents wanting enough to water an entire lawn likely would need more than one barrel, she said.

Although the reimbursement for each barrel decreased, the village board kept funding for the grant program stable at $5,000 a year.

Residents can apply year-round for the program by filling out a form available on the village's website and including their receipt and a photo of the rain collection device installed at their home, said Dave Gorman, assistant director of public works.

“Residents like the ability to get any rain barrel they want, Gorman said. “They help use water in a productive way, not just as a waste to be gotten rid of from a property.

Some rain barrels are made from reusing old syrup jugs, Gorman said. Others like the ones Lombard artist Judith Gustafson has painted for Lombard Garden Club raffle prizes are artistically designed and serve a second purpose as a decoration.

“It's a good way to make people aware of using rain barrels, Gustafson said.