In another step toward its goal of bringing water from Lake Michigan to Oswego, the Town of Oswego is currently conducting a corrosion control study to ensure a smooth transition.

Oswego’s goal is to receive water from Lake Michigan through the DuPage Water Commission by 2028. The community is partnering with Montgomery and Yorkville to share the cost of the project.

As part of the study, Cornwell Engineering Group designed a pipe system to carry water from the three communities. Pipe system studies are tests designed to determine how different waters react with pipe materials.

Village officials said it will take about six months to adjust the pipes to handle well water from each town, and then water from Lake Michigan will be piped in. Once the tests are complete, Cornwell will analyze the results and recommend the best treatment options to communities if necessary.

Water and sewer customer rates will not increase as much as planned to cover the cost of supplying Oswego with water from Lake Michigan. Last November, trustees unanimously passed a new water and sewer rate ordinance to fund the project.

The municipality has not increased its tariffs since May 1, 2022. Over the next eight years, utility costs are expected to rise by about 4.5 to 6% annually.

Village officials will review costs annually to ensure rates are adjusted accordingly. Water rates were originally expected to more than double.

A study of water and sewer rates found that the new rates are in line with other communities that receive water from Lake Michigan. To offset the project costs, the village has sought federal and state funding, including applying for grants and loans.

In addition, a property transfer tax is expected to provide approximately $450,000 in additional revenue to the village’s water and sewer fund each year. The village’s share of the project is estimated to be approximately $73 million.

Village officials tout the many benefits of Lake Michigan, saying Lake Michigan water is a sustainable water source.

In addition, Lake Michigan’s water is so soft that water softeners and filters are not needed and there is minimal mineral buildup in pipes and appliances, officials said.