Priority 1: Replace Lead Water Service Lines

The City had planned to replace lead and galvanized water service lines within the EPA’s original 30-year timeline. However, the EPA recently shortened the required timeline to just 10 years. In January 2026, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency adopted the significantly shortened the required timeline for all Illinois communities. City Council approved the lead line replacement policy in March of 2024.

• Instead of spreading the work and associated costs of this $84 Million project over 30 years, the City must now make a significantly larger investment into a larger-scale project to complete the replacements in one-third of the time. 

• The new 10-year requirement is an unfunded mandate, meaning no state or federal funding is provided. As a result, the City must implement the program using its own financial resources. 

• Our utility rates are tied directly to the cost of operations and maintenance. We don't make a profit on these services. 

• The City has allocated $11 million from fund reserves over the last 3 years for water utility improvements. However, this approach is not sustainable long term. 

• The City is implementing a series of water rate increases over the next 4 years to fund the lead service line replacements. These rate increases are planned to be temporary until the project is complete. 

• To help offset the water rate increases, the City will implement a 5% reduction in electric rates until further notice. 

• While the City always looks to apply for grants to help pay for projects, St. Charles’ demographic profile generally does not meet the eligibility criteria for these funding opportunities. We also are actively working with state legislators to seek an extended timeline for lead service line replacement. 

There are approximately 3,400 lead and galvanized water service line connections throughout the City. Protecting the health and safety of our residents is essential, and we strongly support the removal of lead and galvanized water service lines to reduce the risk of lead in drinking water.