Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, announced that it has acquired the Village of Hardin’s water and wastewater systems.
The newly acquired system adds approximately 435 water and 405 wastewater customers to the company’s southern Illinois service area.
“Our team is excited and ready to serve the Village of Hardin as we expand our footprint across our southern Illinois service area,” said Justin Ladner, president of Illinois American Water. “Since 2020 we have had the privilege to add over 26,000 new customer connections and partner with over 10 communities across Illinois through acquisitions. We are excited to include Village of Hardin to our customer base.”
Hardin voted in favor of the sale in May 2021. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) recently approved the sale for $3.3 million.
According to Hardin’s mayor, Dave Hurley, the sale of the water and wastewater systems to Illinois American Water, “will relieve the Village of the water and wastewater responsibilities.” He continued, “Residents and businesses will benefit from a larger scale, efficiently operated water and wastewater utility that brings expertise to our aging systems. Illinois American Water has a proven track record of meeting or surpassing water quality standards.”
Illinois American Water plans to invest approximately $3 million in the first five years of ownership to upgrade the Village of Hardin water and wastewater systems. Work will include replacing water meters, and installing a sanitary pump station and force wastewater main. Generators will be installed for increased resiliency and continued service in the event of a power outage. Upgrades to the water and wastewater treatment plants will support safe, reliable service. In addition, safety and security upgrades will be completed including the implementation of automation for operational efficiency.
“The Village of Hardin is celebrating their 175-year anniversary and the community continues positive progress,” said Ethan Steinacher, operations senior manager for Illinois American Water’s Central Division. “We look forward to serving our new customers and being a good neighbor and responsible corporate citizen. We appreciate the village’s trust and confidence in our team.”
