Update: Illinois American and Bond Madison Water Company will return to normal treatment practices on September 30th. Thank you for your patience and understanding during our annual system flushing.
Our office will be closed Monday, September 2nd in observance of Labor Day.
Have a safe and happy Holiday!
If there is an emergency situation, please call Marty @ 618-593-6225.
Please mail check payments Early, Pay by Phone @ 618-669-2861 or online at www.bondmadison.com. Normal business Office Hours 8:00 to 4:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Payment Drop Slot is at the BMWC Building drive thru and is available 7 days week/24 hours a day.
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Effective Thursday, August 14th, Our supplier, Illinois American Water (see below message) will be temporarily changing the type of disinfectant used in the water as they always do at this time of year. Instead of combining the chlorine in the water with ammonia, they will be adding chlorine only. During this time Bond Madison Water will flush the distribution system using this type of disinfectant. Our annual flush of the system will begin August 15th. We will resume normal disinfectant in approximately four to six weeks. Flushing the system lines with chlorine only disinfectant removes and prevents chemical build up in the lines. There is no need to boil the water. Many distribution systems use this type of disinfectant year-round. If an objectionable difference in odor is noticed, then allow water drawn from the tap to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours. Dialysis patients and renal care facilities should be aware of these changes and adjust their health care practices accordingly.
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Important Information from Illinois American Water 
Dear Customer.
Good evening, Illinois American Water is moving up its annual free chlorine flushing program to start today, Thursday, August 15th instead of Monday, August 19. Annually, the program is conducted every fall. We are using an abundance of caution in making this schedule change. One reason for the schedule adjustment is changing Mississippi River conditions, our raw water source. We believe this schedule change is important to support our commitment to delivering high quality water and service to all our water customers. We appreciate your understanding.
Thank you, Sam Saucier Manager – Water Quality & Environmental Compliance Southern & Central IL
618-707-1913
…..This is an important message from Illinois American Water. We are beginning our annual maintenance program, which includes testing and flushing fire hydrants in addition to a temporary change in water treatment. This work is to begin Thursday, August 15th and will occur across our system for the next three to six weeks.This work is part of our annual maintenance which supports continued water quality and fire protection. While Illinois American Water crews are working, customers may experience a slight drop in water pressure or draw some discolored water for a short period of time. If your water is discolored, run the cold water taps only, at the lowest level of the house for about 3 to 5 minutes until the water runs clear. If discolored water occurs please also refrain from doing laundry during that time.While we are completing this work, our water quality team will also be switching treatment to a form of chlorine known as “free chlorine,” which does not contain ammonia. This stronger disinfectant is typically used by water utilities when flushing water mains and fire hydrants. If you have a health care need that requires purified or filtered water, you should reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions. During the temporary treatment change, customers may experience a more noticeable chlorine taste or odor in their water. There is no reason for concern. This is due to the switch in chlorine types. If you are a landlord and water service is in your name, please inform your tenants so they are aware of this impact to their water service. In keeping with American Water’s focus on safety for both customers and employees, please do not approach our crews while they work. For more information or to see a map of the affected area please go to Illinoisamwater.com and click on ‘Alerts’. You may also call 1-800-422-2782 for more information. Once again, for more information please go to Illinoisamwater.com or call 1-800-422-2782. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding.
There will be a ten percent (10 %) late charge added to each bill that is unpaid after the due date. Failure to receive billing or USPS mailing delays do not constitute late fee forgiveness. Bank bill payments may be debited from customers bank account on or before due date. Bank uses 3rd party processor to mail a check. This check may incur USPS delays that may impact prompt delivery of the check. Late fees will process on the 18th of the month around noon. Any payment received after that time will be charged the above-mentioned late charge.
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BMWC Rate Increase Effective August 1, 2024 Billing
The Bond Madison Water Company (BMWC) Board of Directors voted at the June 10, 2024, monthly meeting to increase water rates 55 cents per 1000 gallons of water effective on your August 1, 2024 billing. BMWC absorbed unexpected surcharges from our water supplier, Illinois American Water Company, from April to December 2023. These surcharges were applied again in April 2024. After a rate increase (27%) in February 2023, Illinois American Water Company (IAWC) was allowed by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to apply surcharges of 10 – 14 % to Bond Madison Water Company’s bill each month. BMWC cannot bear these costs any longer.
Illinois American Water Company has once again applied to the Illinois Commerce Commission for another rate Adjustment. This could increase charges to BMWC by as much as 38.9% in 2025 and an additional 3.5% in 2026. These are the percentages requested by Illinois American Water Company and are under review by The Illinois Commerce Commission. The new rates approved by the ICC will going into effect for February 2025 billing. BMWC will be following this case closely and will be forced to adjust our rates according to the ICC ruling.
Illinois American Water Company Rate Case / ICC Docket P2024-0097
On February 8, 2024, Illinois American Water Company (IAWC) applied to the Commerce Commission (ICC) for a rate increase. Illinois American projects that this increase will affect Bond Madison Water Company by as much as 39%. Deadline for Commission action is June 22, 2024
ICC Public Comment made by Bond Madison Water Company (BMWC) on May 30, 2024
I am submitting this comment on behalf of Bond Madison Water Company (BMWC), Pocahontas, Illinois. BMWC is a rural, not-for-profit water company serving more than 2600 rural residences, 8 villages, and 1 rural water district in Bond and Madison counties. BMWC is a sale-for-resale customer that purchases 100% of its water, approximately 360 million gallons annually, from Illinois American Water Company’s (IAWC) Granite City and East St. Louis treatment facilities. BMWC is contractually bound to purchase all its water from IAWC, preventing BMWC from having the opportunity to find another source of water to provide to our customers.
In February 2023, BMWC received a 27% increase in rates, forcing us to pass a 25% increase to our rural and village member users. Additionally, two months later, IAWC applied surcharges to the purchase price equaling another increase of more than 10%. Included in these surcharges is the Quality Infrastructure Program (QIP) Surcharge. This surcharge, which funds IAWC infrastructure improvements has ranged from 2.5% to 12.5% in recent years. In 2023 alone, the QIP surcharge cost BMWC more than $48,000.
Currently IAWC is requesting a rate increase to fund $557,000,000 to aid in “replacing aging infrastructure.” If this rate increase is granted, IAWC will raise the rate that BMWC pays approximately 20% in 2025 and an additional 2% in 2026, amounting to a 51% increase in purchase cost to BMWC in just four years.
Recently IAWC has acquired or purchased several municipal water and wastewater systems, some, or all of which needed repair or upgrades prior to the acquisition. I assume that the requested $557,000,000 rate increase is to help fund upgrades in these systems. If this is the case, we feel it is unfair that BMWC should have to pay to upgrade these systems only for IAWC to profit from. BMWC only utilizes a very minute portion of IAWC’s water distribution system. I would like to add that BMWC is solely a water purchaser from IAWC. We believe it is unjust that $136,000,000 of wastewater improvements is included in the same rate case.
It is also our understanding that entities (other sale-for-resale customers) under contract negotiations or potential acquisition by IAWC receive better “deals” or rates for water purchases. It is my experience that production and maintenance costs are the same whether your contract is a 40-year term or has expired. When one entity receives special consideration, another less fortunate entity is forced to make up the difference in lost revenues.
As a not-for-profit entity, BMWC strives to provide the best quality water to our customers at the lowest possible cost, which has become increasingly more difficult. In 2023 BMWC spent nearly 55% of its annual operating budget purchasing water from IAWC. We believe it is unfair, unnecessary, and unjust for Illinois American Water Company to request a $557,000,000 rate increase after they received the previously mentioned 37% increase in 2023 (27% increase in water rates plus 10% in surcharges). We would also like to point out that IAWC shareholders benefited from a profit rate of 10.75% while the company itself saw an estimated $1.8 billion in profits over the last two years.
We request that the officers of the Illinois Commerce Commission keep in mind that they are appointed to serve the residents of the State of Illinois, not just the shareholders of Illinois American Water Company.
The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Claim Article Published on 25News Now
We are asking all customers to take a “stand” on this IAWC Increase. Please review all information and voice your opinion in public comments section on the ICC website.
How to File a Public Comment with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC)
Any Illinois resident may comment regarding Illinois Commerce Commission cases. You can file a comment on their website by going to
https://www.icc.illinois.gov/docket/P2024-0097/public-comments
You may also provide comments by calling the Illinois Commerce Commission’s toll-free number at 800-524-0795.
Some things to note when filing a public comment:
- Bond Madison Water Company is a Not-for-Profit water system serving more than 2,600 household meters, eight communities and a water district. This rate hike will adversely affect the residents of Alhambra, Grantfork, Hamel, Livingston, Marine, Pocahontas, St. Jacob, Worden, and the members of Three County Water District.
- In February 2023, Bond Madison Water Company received a 27% increase in rates from Illinois American Water Company. In addition to the 27%, Illinois American Water Company imposed surcharges of more than 10% to the Bond Madison Water Company bill each month beginning in April 2023.
- As a customer of Bond Madison Water Company, you are directly affected by the percentage of rate increase assigned to Illinois American Water.
In addition to Filing a Public Comment, Contact Your Legislative Representative
- Governor J.B. Pritzker, 401 South Spring Street, Springfield, IL 62704
- Governor Julia Stratton, 214 State House, Springfield, IL 62076
- Senator Richard Durbin, 525 South 8th Street, Springfield, IL 62703
- Representative Mike Bost, 205 East Harnett Street, Mascoutah, IL 62258
- Senator Jason Plummer, 310 West Gallatin Street, Vandalia, IL 62471
- Representative Charles Meier, 121 Broadway, Suite 1, Highland, IL 62249
- Representative Blaine Wilhour, P.O. Box 1, Louisville, IL 62076
- Senator Tammy Duckworth, 8 South Old State Capital Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701
- Representative Mary Miller, 3236 Broadway Street, Suite 200, Quincy, IL 62301
Any help you can give on this matter will be greatly appreciated.
The Bond Madison Water Company Board of Directors
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BMWC 28th Annual Meeting Minutes – March 5, 2024
Bob Schrumpf, President, called the 28th Annual Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The meeting opened with Randy Haukap leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Attorney Jeffrey Mollet reported that the 1% quorum had been met with 82 contract holders in attendance.
Bob Schrumpf then introduced members of the Board, Engineer, Legal Counsel, Contractor, and employees.
In December 2023, David Frueh resigned his board member position after serving for 23 years.
Bob then turned the meeting over to Mike VonderHaar, Secretary of the Board, who provided proof of the Annual Meeting Notice and pointed out that the 2023 Annual Meeting minutes were included on the agenda. Stanley Frey made motion to accept the minutes. Ken Haller 2nd. Motion carried.
Mike VonderHaar gave an update on the Bond/Madison’s Rounding up for your Community Program. The Program was implemented in February 2020. Currently having approximately 328 contributors for a total collected in the past year of around $ 1762.75. Grand total collected since inception being $ 6519.42. The collected money was placed in special savings account with a balance of $ 1987.03 as of December 31, 2023. The Round Up committee met during the year and reviewed submitted applications. The following were approved recipients: The Simple Room, Pocahontas Little League, Bond County Senior Center, Bond County Humane Society, Pleasant Mound Community Center, Youth Core Ministries, Lemuel Rhodes Cancer Foundation, Bond County Law Enforcement Association, all in Bond County, Macoupin Art Collective in Macoupin County and Leaps of Love, Partners for Pets, in Madison County. The Board approved to make a $ 250.00 donation to each of the above-mentioned community organizations abiding by Bond/Madison’s Rounding up for your Community policy guidelines. Members were encouraged to donate to the Rounding Up for your Community Program by calling the office.
Mr. Eyman submitted the Treasurer’s Report directing the membership to review the Cashflow and Balance sheet printed on the agenda. Any questions could be answered at the meeting, or the office could be contacted later. With the financial reports being in good order, Don Grimm made motion to approve them. Darwin Kirsch 2nd. Motion carried.
Bob Massa of Juneau and Associates took the floor and reported the status of the EPA funding for the “Project” of water main looping, tower painting, telemetry system replacement, and water system improvements. “Project” is moving forward with preparation of IEPA contract, archaeological study, project design, easements, and title reports.
Attorney Jeffrey Mollet presented the slate of nominees and explained voting procedure. Incumbent Mike VonderHaar of Bond County is running for a three-year term. Darren Apken has been nominated by the Village of Marine for a 3-year term representing the bulk users-Only bulk users will vote. Bond County candidate, Mike VonderHaar is running unopposed. Mollet asked for a motion to accept the slate as presented Stanley Frey made motion to accept. Bridget Grotts 2nd motion. Motion carried.
Madison County candidates, Kay Lange and Ryan Schonhoff will be running against each other, and a vote will be conducted. Each candidate took the floor to provide the members their educational background, work experience, key skills, desires, and strengths to secure the Madison County Director seat. A tally of votes was collected from members resulting in 38 votes for Kay Lange, 36 votes for Ryan Schonhoff, 3 ballots were blank.
Darren Apken was presented as unopposed nominee for bulk water representative. Mr. Mollet asked bulk representatives to accept the nomination of Darren Apken. Mr. Mollet asked for a motion to accept the slate as presented. Phil Decker (Grantfork representative) so moved. Don Grimm (Hamel representative) 2nd. Motion carried.
President Bob Schrumpf asked if there was any unfinished business. None stated. The President then asked if there was any new business for discussion. Marty Landmann, Manager/Operator, took the floor to inform the membership that regretfully Illinois American Water (IAWC), has filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) for a rate adjustment to be effective in January 2025. IAWC states increased rate structure is due to new environmental regulations, system improvements, inflation, fuel prices, chemicals, and electrical power. In February 2023, ICC approved a rate increase to IAWC for 27%. As more information is collected, the BMWC website will be updated as well as members being notified thru email. Landmann noted, 2023 income section included a Madison County ARPA fund $ 50,000.00 grant that was used to purchase assets for the company.
Stanley Frey made motion to adjourn meeting. Keith Haberer 2nd motion. Meeting adjourned.
Each member submitting signed invitation card at the registration desk to receive a BMWC $ 10.00 bill credit. BMWC $ 50.00 bill credit winners were: James Schlemer, Donald Reed and Jane Childerson of Bond County and Fred Faust, Mary Reinhardt, and Steve Henke from Madison County. Applebee’s Dinner/AMC Movie Theater gift cards winners were Nancy Hanratty and William Willmann.
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Madison County Director Seat Candidates-Election-Tuesday-March 5, 2024 @ 7:00 p.m. at BMWC Annual Meeting
Candidate #1
Candidate #2
2024 ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE
The Twenty-eighth Annual Meeting of the Bond Madison Water Company will be held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 7:00 p.m. at the Copper Dock Banquet Hall (west building), 498 White Oak Ln, Pocahontas. The purpose of the meeting will be to report on the operation of the Water Company, to update the membership on pending system improvements, to elect Bond and Madison County Directors and for the Bulk Users to elect a representative.
There are three director seats on this year’s ballot. Incumbents Mike VonderHaar (Bond County) and Darren Apken (Bulk Representative). The Madison County seat is vacant. Each director seat will be for a three-year term. If you wish to be placed on the ballot to run for Bond or Madison County Director or a Bulk User Representative, please submit your name in writing to the office no less than ten days prior to the Annual Meeting. Please visit www.bondmadison.com for director candidate updates.
Attendees that sign and submit their invitation post card at that night’s registration desk will receive a $ 10.00 bill credit & a CHANCE TO WIN AN ADDITIONAL PRIZE!
Signed invitation post cards received by mail or at office will NOT qualify for bill credit or prize. Sorry!
For Boil Order Alerts in Madison County: listen to KMOX & WSMI; Bond County: KMOX & WGEL
Provide email address to: lori@bondmadison.com to receive boil orders and important info and “like” us on Facebook.
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Good tips for the upcoming weather forecast:
The Water Company relies on our users to notify us if they see running water along the ditches and fields. Especially when temperatures are below freezing. Just as your household lines can freeze and burst, flushing and fire hydrants that do not drain properly can split. Lids can be left open at the meter pits with the meters also freezing. Please notify us if you see water flowing in areas that should be dry.
Some tips for preventing and thawing frozen household waterlines:
Preventing Frozen Pipes
• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
Thawing Frozen Pipes
• Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
Update: Illinois American and Bond Madison Water Company will return to normal treatment practices on September 28th. Thank you for your patience and understanding during our annual system flushing.
Thanks to the generosity of our Bond Madison Water Company (BMWC) members, $4550.00 has been given back to Not for Profit and Charitable organizations in our general service territory since the program’s inception in 2020.
Rounding up for your Community is just what its name implies. Rounding up funds are generated through a voluntary rounding up of members’ water bills to the nearest dollar. This change is used to assist and provide monetary assistance to not for profit/charitable organizations in our service area.
For those who participate in Rounding up program, the rounding up results in an average donation of approximately $ 6.00 per year. No contribution will exceed $12.00 per account per year. We hope every BMWC member will participate. When more members contribute, more help can be given! If you would like to participate in the payment rounding program, please email: lori@bondmadison.com or by simply checking the box on your payment remittance stub.
2023 Rounding up for your Community $$ have been awarded to:
Pocahontas School Library
Bond County Core Community (YCM)
Pocahontas Little League
Pleasant Mound Community Center
The Simple Room
Bond County Humane Society
Partners for Pets Humane Society
Macoupin Art Collective
Leaps of Love
Lemuel Rhodes Cancer Foundation
Bond County Law Enforcement Assoc.
If you are an organization that needs assistance, please apply for $$. Applications can be completed by tax-exempt organizations/charity groups.
Blank applications are available by clicking icon above where indicated. Completed applications can be submitted by:
Mailing to – BMWC, P.O. Box 287, Pocahontas, IL 62275
Fax – (618) 669-0222 or Email – marty@bondmadison.com
Congratulations to our 2023 Round Up Recipients-The Pocahontas Little League, YCM (Bond County Core Community), Pleasant Mound Community Center, The Simple Room, Bond County Humane Society, Partners for Pets Humane Society, Macoupin Art Collective, Pocahontas School Library, Leaps of Love, Lemuel Rhodes Cancer Foundation and Bond County Law Enforcement Association.
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Congratulations to our 2022 Round Up Recipients-The Simple Room, Bond County Senior Citizens Center Food Pantry, Bond County Humane Society, Pleasant Mound Community Center and Leaps of Love.
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Congratulations to our 2021 Round Up Recipients-Bond County Senior Citizens Center, The Simple Room, The Pokey UMC Food Bank, The Pocahontas Little League, Sorento Food Pantry, Pleasant Mound Community C
August 2023 Important Message from Illinois American Water
This is an important message from Illinois American Water. We are beginning our annual maintenance program, which includes testing and flushing fire hydrants in addition to a temporary change in water treatment. This work is expected to begin approximately on Wednesday August 9th and will occur across our system for the next three to six weeks.This work is part of our annual maintenance which supports continued water quality and fire protection. While Illinois American Water crews are working, customers may experience a slight drop in water pressure or draw some discolored water for a short period of time. If your water is discolored, run the cold water taps only, at the lowest level of the house for about 3 to 5 minutes until the water runs clear. If discolored water occurs please also refrain from doing laundry during that time.While we are completing this work, our water quality team will also be switching treatment to a form of chlorine known as “free chlorine,” which does not contain ammonia. This stronger disinfectant is typically used by water utilities when flushing water mains and fire hydrants. If you have a health care need that requires purified or filtered water, you should reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions. During the temporary treatment change, customers may experience a more noticeable chlorine taste or odor in their water. There is no reason for concern. This is due to the switch in chlorine types. If you are a landlord and water service is in your name, please inform your tenants so they are aware of this impact to their water service. In keeping with American Water’s focus on safety for both customers and employees, please do not approach our crews while they work. For more information or to see a map of the affected area please go to Illinoisamwater.com and click on ‘Alerts’. You may also call 1-800-422-2782 for more information. Once again, for more information please go to Illinoisamwater.com or call 1-800-422-2782. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding.
Illinois American Water Company (IAWC)/ICC Surcharge Filings
March 28, 2023
It is with deep regret that I must forward this information. I was contacted late afternoon last Thursday, March 23, 2023, by Joe Ahlvin, Illinois American Water Company’s Senior Operations Manager for their Southern Division. Mr. Ahlvin called to inform me that IAWC has filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission for the ability to apply three separate surcharges to the Bond Madison Water Company billing each month. Mr. Ahlvin previously communicated to me that there would not be any surcharges the remainder of 2023 due to the ICC approving their recent request for a rate increase. Historically, when they are granted a rate increase, these surcharges are reset to zero for the remainder of the year that the rate increase went into effect. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem as though that is the case this year. IAWC increased the rates that Bond Madison pays by 27% in February 2023.
The surcharges they are requesting are titled Qualifying Infrastructure Plant Surcharge (QIP), Volume Balancing Adjustment (VBA), and the Invested Tax Surcharge (ICT). According to the “unconfirmed” information that I have researched on the ICC website, these surcharges could equate to approximately 14% additional expense to BMWC. IAWC filed for these surcharges on March 20, 2023, and if accepted, will go into effect April 1, 2023. The Illinois Commerce Commission docket numbers for the surcharges are as follows:
Qualifying Infrastructure Plant Surcharge: P2023-0213
https://www.icc.illinois.gov/docket/P2023-0213
Volume Balancing Adjustment: P2023-0233
https://www.icc.illinois.gov/docket/P2023-0233
Invested Tax Surcharge: P2023-0232
https://www.icc.illinois.gov/docket/P2023-0232
I have reached out to a few of our elected officials, House of Representative from District 109, and Illinois Senator from District 55. I have also commented on the specific docket numbers on the ICC website. I am asking, as members of Bond Madison Water Company, to “File A Comment” in each of the public comments sections. I apologize for the very short notice, but I’m hoping we can get our concerns heard and have a positive effect in this situation.
Respectfully,
Marty Landmann (Operator/Manager)
BMWC 27th Annual Meeting Minutes
On March 7, 2023, Bob Schrumpf, President, called the 27th Annual Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The meeting opened with Randy Haukap leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Attorney Jeffrey Mollet reported that the 1% quorum had been met with 87 contract holders in attendance.Bob Schrumpf then introduced members of the Board, Engineer, Legal Counsel, Contractor, and employees.In October 2022, Lawrence Schwarz resigned his board member position after serving for 20 years.Bob then turned the meeting over to Mike VonderHaar, Secretary of the Board, who provided proof of the Annual Meeting Notice and pointed out that the 2022 Annual Meeting minutes were included on the agenda. Denny Willman made motion to accept the minutes. Michelle Haller 2nd. Motion carried.Mike VonderHaar gave an update on the Bond/Madison’s Rounding up for your Community Program. The Program was implemented in February 2020. Currently having approximately 304 contributors for a total collected in the past year of around $ 1700.00. Grand total collected since inception being $4756.57. The collected money was placed in special savings account with a balance of $2,968.75 as of December 31, 2022. The Round Up committee met during the year and reviewed submitted applications. The following were approved recipients: The Simple Room, Bond County Senior Center, Bond County Humane, Pleasant Mound Community Center, all in Bond County and Leaps of Love, in Madison County. The Board approved to make a $ 150.00 donation to each of the above-mentioned community organizations abiding by Bond/Madison’s Rounding up for your Community policy guidelines. Members were encouraged to donate to the Rounding Up for your Community Program by calling the office. Upon recommendation of the Round Up Committee in October 2022, the BMWC Board of Directors voted to increase the donation amount from $ 150.00 to $ 250.00 for year 2023 applications.Mr. Eyman submitted the Treasurer’s Report directing the membership to review the Cashflow and Balance sheet printed on the agenda. Any questions could be answered at the meeting, or the office could be contacted later. With the financial reports being in good order, Janet Waligorski made motion to approve them. Don Grimm 2nd. Motion carried.Bob Massa of Juneau and Associates took the floor and reported the status of the EPA funding for the “Project” of water main looping, tower painting, telemetry system replacement, and water system improvements. “Project” is moving forward with preparation of IEPA contract, archaeological study, project design, easements, and title reports.Attorney Jeffrey Mollet presented the slate of nominees and explained voting procedure. Incumbents Brent Whittaker of Bond County and Randy Haukap of Madison County are each running for a three-year term. Laura Knackstedt has been nominated by the Village of Grantfork for a 3-year term representing the bulk users-Only bulk users will vote. All Bond County and Madison County candidates are running unopposed. Mr. Mollet asked for a motion to accept the slate as presented. Mark Carpenter made motion to accept. Dennis Kirkham 2nd motion. Motion carried.Laura Knackstedt was presented as unopposed nominee for bulk water representative. Mr. Mollet asked bulk representatives to accept the nomination of Laura Knackstedt. Mr. Mollet asked for a motion to accept the slate as presented. Rich Accornero so moved. Don Grimm 2nd. Motion carried.President Bob Schrumpf asked if there was any unfinished business. None stated. The President then asked if there was any new business for discussion. Marty Landmann, Manager/Operator, took the floor to inform the membership that regretfully BMWC was forced to raise water rates. A 25% water usage increase to existing water rates took effect on the February 1, 2023, billing for January 2023 water usage. The monthly minimum fee was increased to $ 30.00 due to the debt service coverage ratio falling short of the bank loan requirements per Auditor. Rate structure increase is due to rising costs in water provided by Illinois American Water (IAWC), EPA testing, materials, and all items necessary to operate the system.Illinois American Water Company (IAWC) representative, Joe Ahlvin took the floor to explain the rate increase imposed upon Bond Madison Water Company. IAWC filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) for an increase to water base rates due to new environmental regulations, system improvements, inflation, increased prices of fuel, chemicals, and electrical power. ICC approved a rate increase to IAWC for 27% effective February 2023.Michelle Haller made motion to adjourn meeting. Stanley Frey 2nd motion. Meeting Adjourned.
Each member submitting signed invitation card at the registration desk to receive a BMWC $ 10.00 bill credit. BMWC $ 50.00 bill credit winners were: Clarence Zimmerman, June Childerson, Bridget Grotts, Ernest Potthast, Mt. Nebo Church, and Kenny Haller. Applebee’s Dinner/AMC Movie Theater gift cards winners were Dennis Kirkham and Kay Walker.
2023 ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE
The Twenty-Seventh Annual Meeting of the Bond Madison Water Company will be held on
Tuesday, March 7, 2023, • 7:00 p.m.
at the Copper Dock Banquet Hall (west building)
498 White Oak Ln, Pocahontas
The purpose of the meeting will be to report on the operation of the Water Company, to update the membership on pending system improvements, to elect Bond and Madison County Directors and for the Bulk Users to elect a representative.
There are three director seats on this year’s ballot. Incumbents Brent Whittaker (Bond County), Randy Haukap (Madison County) and Laura Knackstedt (Bulk Representative) will each be running for a three-year term. If you wish to be placed on the ballot to run for Bond or Madison County Director, please submit your name in writing to the office no less than ten days prior to the Annual Meeting.
Annual Post Card Invitations are in the mail.
THIS YEARS ATTENDANCE PRIZE WILL BE A $ 10.00 BILL CREDIT! ATTEND THE MEETING AND BY SIMPLY SIGNING & SUBMITTING YOUR POST CARD INVITATION AT THE REGISTRATION DESK, YOU WILL RECEIVE A $10.00 BILL CREDIT AND A CHANCE TO WIN AN ADDITIONAL PRIZE.
For Boil Order Alerts in Madison County: listen to KMOX & WSMI;
Bond County: KMOX & WGEL. Provide email address to: lori@bondmadison.com
to receive boil orders and important info and “like” us on Facebook.
BMWC Rate Increase Effective 2/1/23
The Bond Madison Water Company Board of Directors voted at the January 9, 2023, board meeting to increase water usage rates. This increase is a result of the 27% increase that the Illinois Commerce Commission has approved for our supplier, Illinois American Water Company, as well as many other increased costs to treat and deliver water. The increase that we have received from Illinois American Water Company will result in more than $390,000 of additional water purchase expense.
The new rates will take effect on your February 1st billing
Minimum Monthly Payment (Access Charge) $30.00
First 25,000 gallons – $9.60 per 1000 gallons
25,000 – 50,000 gallons – $6.53 per 1000 gallons
50,000 – 100,000 gallons – $5.93 per 1000 gallons
Over 100,000 gallons – $5.39 per 1000 gallons
Billing Examples- 2000 gallons of usage = $49.20 monthly bill
5000 gallons of usage = $78.00 monthly bill
If you would like to review ICC rate case 22-0210, you may access it by the following link, www.icc.illinois.gov/docket/P2022-0210
August 1, 2022 Notice
7% Water Usage Increase to Existing Water Rates Effective April 1, 2022 Billing
At the March 1, 2022 Annual BMWC meeting, Marty Landmann, Manager/Operator, took the floor to inform the membership that regretfully BMWC will be forced to raise water rates. A 7% water usage increase to existing water rates will take effect on the April 1, 2022 billing for March 2022 water usage. The monthly minimum fee will remain at $ 28.00. Increase is due to rising costs in water provided by Illinois American Water (IAWC), EPA testing, materials, and all items necessary to operate the system. Last price increase was in 2017. In conclusion,Landmann advised that on February 10, 2022, IAWC filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission for an increase of approximately 23% for their base rates. The review process for such requests is 11 months. If the ICC grants this request, BMWC will need to re-evaluate rates.
26th Annual Meeting Minutes – March 1, 2022
Bob Schrumpf announced that drawings would be conducted at the end of the meeting for six (6) bill credits and two(2) AppleBee’s Dinner/AMC Movie Theater gift cards and Cardinal’s merchandise.Attorney Jeffrey Mollet reported that the 1% quorum had been met with 65 contract holders in attendance.Bob Schrumpf, President, called the 26th Annual Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The meeting opened with Randy Haukap leading the Pledge of Allegiance.Bob Schrumpf then introduced members of the Board, Engineer, Legal Counsel, Contractor, and employees.Bob then turned the meeting over to Mike VonderHaar, Secretary of the Board, who provided proof of the Annual Meeting Notice and pointed out that the 2021 Annual Meeting minutes were included on the agenda. Don Grimm made motion to accept the minutes. Ken Haller 2nd. Motion carried.Mike VonderHaar gave an update on the Bond/Madison’s Rounding up for your Community Program. The Program was implemented in February 2020. Currently having approximately 286 contributors for a total collected in the past year of around $1500.00. The collected money was placed in special savings account. The committee met during the year and reviewed submitted applications. The following were approved recipients: The Simple Room, Bond County Senior Center, Pokey United Methodist Church Food Pantry, Pocahontas Little League, New Douglas Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sorento Food Pantry and Pleasant Mound Community Center. The board approved to make a $150.00 donation to each of the above- mentioned community organizations abiding by Bond/Madison’s Rounding up for your Community policy guidelines. Members were encouraged to donate to the Rounding Up for your Community Program by calling the office.Mr. Eyman submitted the Treasurer’s Report directing the membership to review the Cashflow and Balance sheet printed on the agenda. Any questions could be answered at the meeting, or the office could be contacted later. With the financial reports being in good order, Don Grimm made motion to approve them. Udell Cook 2nd. Motion carried.Bob Massa of Juneau and Associates took the floor and reported the status of the EPA funding for the “Project” of water main looping, chlorinating and water system improvements. To provide better water quality in timely manner to members, BMWC used depreciation savings monies to purchase and install five (5) IXOM Mixers. New telemetry (radio control) system proposals are being reviewed. Amended contract to remove the mixers and add telemetry updates will need to be resubmitted to the IEPA.Attorney Jeffrey Mollet presented the slate of nominees and explained voting procedure. Incumbents Tom Eyman of Bond County and Robert Schrumpf of Madison County are each running for a three-year term. Rich Accornero has been nominated by the Village of Pocahontas for a 3-year term representing the bulk users-Only bulk users will vote. All Bond County and Madison County candidates are running unopposed. Mr. Mollet asked for a motion to accept the slate as presented. Scott Gaffner made motion to accept. Ken Haller 2nd motion. Motion carried.Rich Accornero was presented as unopposed nominee for bulk water representative. Mr. Mollet asked bulk representatives to accept the nomination of Rich Accornero. Mr. Mollet asked for a motion to accept the slate as presented. Don Grimm so moved. Darren Apken 2nd. Motion carried.President Bob Schrumpf asked if there was any unfinished business. None stated. The President then asked if there was any new business for discussion. Marty Landmann, Manager/Operator, took the floor to inform the membership that regretfully BMWC will be forced to raise water rates. A 7% water usage increase to existing water rates will take effect on the April 1, 2022 billing for March 2022 water usage. The monthly minimum fee will remain at $ 28.00. Increase is due to rising costs in water provided by Illinois American Water (IAWC), EPA testing, materials, and all items necessary to operate the system. Last price increase was in 2017. In conclusion, Landmann advised that on February 10, 2022, IAWC filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission for an increase of approximately 23% for their base rates. The review process for such requests is 11 months. If the ICC grants this request, BMWC will need to re-evaluate rates.Gary Kreutzberg made motion to adjourn meeting. Rich Schrumpf 2nd motion. Meeting Adjourned.Each member submitting signed invitation card at the registration desk will receive a BMWC $ 10.00 bill credit. BMWC $ 50.00 bill credit winners were: Scott Doll of Pocahontas. Timothy Lindley, Zimmerman & Zbinden, William Johnston, Meranda Beaumont and Clarence Zimmerman, all of Greenville. Apple Bee’s Dinner/AMC Movie Theater gift cards winners were Rob Lewis and Seth & Beth Joy, all of Edwardsville. Multiple members won Cardinal’s merchandise, courtesy of Jared Haukap and the St Louis Cardinals.
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