Illinois American Water has acquired the Concordia Water Cooperative’s water distribution system, which is situated in an unincorporated area west of Belleville near Millstadt.

This acquisition adds around 150 water customers to the Metro East service area.

Illinois American Water president Justin Ladner said: “We have a long history – over 145 years – of providing quality water service across Illinois, including on a wholesale basis to Concordia Water Cooperative since October 2011. We are proud of our track record and look forward to serving these customers directly and building on our relationship with them.”

In July 2019, the Concordia Water Cooperative voted in favour of the divestment.

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) also gave approval to the divestment for $1.7m, and the sale was completed on 11 February.

Concordia Water Cooperative president Sherman Woy said, “Customers will benefit from the sale.” He said, “We are familiar with Illinois American Water and praise their standards. Customers will continue to receive safe, reliable water service from a company that has served this region well for many years. In addition, customers will experience a significant decrease in rates as a result of the sale.”

Residential customers of Concordia Water Cooperative are expected to see their monthly bills decrease by about $50.25. This is based on monthly usage of 3,500 gallons and a 5/8-inch meter.

According to Illinois American Water, the drop is because customers are not any longer required to reimburse the water cooperative for the deployment of the community water system infrastructure, which replaced residential wells.

Illinois American Water’s southern division senior manager of operations Joe Ahlvin said: “We are excited to serve Concordia Water Cooperative customers directly. We are familiar with the community and their needs. We look forward to continuing our involvement and being a good neighbour.”

The firm also stated that it is committed to upgrading the water distribution system, and maintenance and improvements will to provide reliable service to customers.