Lake Zurich residents to get update on water resources study
The results of a survey on household water use in Lake Zurich will be among the details presented during a community meeting Wednesday.
It is part of the early findings of a comprehensive project to address water-related issues. The information will be presented to residents, business or property owners from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Lake Zurich village hall, 70 E. Main St.
Representatives from the Metropolitan Planning Council with the Center for Neighborhood Technology, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant and University of Illinois Extension comprise a project team studying water resources in Lake Zurich, including drinking water, stormwater and wastewater.
The effort to determine how the village best can manage its resources began this past summer. The intent is to coordinate all aspects, from the future source of drinking water to strategies to reduce local flooding.
At Wednesday’s session, participants can discuss their concerns about the water resources and learn more about the project.
“This is a chance for the average resident to come out and see what they’re up to,” said Mandy Burrell Booth, assistant communications director for the MPC.
More than 260 residents and business owners responded to a survey on household water usage and concerns.
While nearly 80 percent of respondents knew their water came from an underground aquifer, nearly 19 percent weren’t sure, according to the results. About 40 percent of those who answered said they frequently or always drink bottled water at home.
Regarding future water choices, a little more than half of respondents said they use water-efficient plumbing devices and nearly 38 percent said they would be somewhat or very willing to do so.
The village is considering Lake Michigan as a source of water in the future.
On the positive side, the study has found no serious flooding issues or immediate threat of water supply shortage. A desire to redevelop or shape the downtown with green infrastructure was noted as another positive finding.
Things to improve on included better communication by the village about water, stormwater and wastewater issues, and a lack of funding or defined responsibilities for retention pond maintenance.
The effort is a test project for the regional planning agencies and involves experts in engineering, urban planning, economics and other areas.
The result will be a comprehensive strategy that addresses every aspect of the village water supply, wastewater treatment and managing storm and flood water.
The complete assessment and recommendations are set to be reported to the village board Nov. 21.