IL American-Sterling

What is a Water Quality Report? Illinois American Water publishes an annual document detailing your municipal water quality to comply with state and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) regulations. This report aims to enhance understanding of water standards and raise awareness about protecting local water resources.

At our advanced Belleville laboratory, we conduct thousands of tests annually, monitoring water quality at every stage of treatment and distribution. In 2017, we tested for hundreds of potential contaminants, including those with federal and state maximum allowable levels. This report provides an overview of last year's water quality results.

Partnership for Safe Drinking Water Program: Illinois American Water's Alton District voluntarily participates in the USEPA's Partnership For Safe Water, a national program designed to achieve operational excellence. In 2013, the Alton facility earned the prestigious Ten Year Director's Award, honoring utilities that optimize treatment operations and adopt more stringent performance goals than required by regulations. We maintained these standards throughout 2017.

Source Water Information: The Illinois EPA considers all surface water sources potentially vulnerable to pollutants, requiring mandatory treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection. The Alton Treatment Facility draws from the Mississippi River, which is affected by agricultural, municipal, and industrial activities. Comprehensive monitoring and treatment ensure quality water despite variations in source water.

Environmental Stewardship: We implement numerous initiatives to protect water resources:

• Student Education: Reaching thousands of students through school visits, our Mobile Education Center, and STEM partnerships
• Community Events: Participating in "It's Our River Day" celebrations and river cleanup efforts
• Environmental Partnerships: Awarding over $195,000 to water protection projects since 2009
• Pharmaceutical Disposal Programs: Implementing over 35 programs statewide
• Internal Initiatives: Employing energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices

Why is my water bill so high?

1. Seasonal Landscaping: Summer irrigation can significantly increase consumption
2. Underground Leaks: Not always visible at surface level - look for unusually lush grass patches, unexpected plant growth, or dark spots from fungus
3. Running Toilets: A continuously running toilet can waste up to 4,000 gallons daily. Even silent leaks add gallons to your bill. Test by placing food coloring in the tank to see if it appears in the bowl
4. Dripping Faucets: Ensure complete shutoff - a slow drip wastes up to 5,000 gallons monthly, while a steady stream can lose 21,000 gallons

What happens if I can't pay my bill on time?
During financial emergencies, customers may request a Payment Extension to delay part or all of a water bill payment. Contact Customer Service for details.

Is bottled water safer than tap water?
Bottled water isn't necessarily safer. Industry estimates suggest about 25% is just processed and repackaged tap water. While the FDA oversees bottled water quality with standards that consider EPA tap water guidelines, these standards aren't always identical. For example, tap water requires asbestos monitoring, but bottled water doesn't. Bottled water costs substantially more per gallon, though it's valuable during emergencies and may benefit those with compromised immune systems.

If I have a leak, am I responsible for that water usage?
The District first determines what caused the excess usage. If the leak qualifies under the adjustment policy guidelines, an adjusted rate may apply to "non-leak" usage. Sewer usage adjustments may also apply if the leaked water didn't enter the sewer system.

Why do I pay a CUSTOMER CHARGE?
This fee covers all costs associated with providing meter service and connection.