Accountability, transparency and cost savings are key goals

April 15, 2010 (Elmhurst, IL) – A measure passed today by the Illinois Senate will consolidate the DuPage Water Commission under county government next year, according to State Senator Dan Cronin (R-21), the sponsor of SB 580. The Senate voted 39-5-7 to approve the legislation.

“It’s ironic that this bill is approved on Tax Day, since the main goal is to save tax dollars and bring more accountability to DuPage County residents,” Cronin said following the vote. “At a time when voters everywhere are frustrated with unnecessary government, higher taxes and more borrowing, this bill represents a step in the right direction for weary taxpayers.”

The bill would create a new committee under the purview of DuPage County government that would include equal representation from the county government and municipalities. An annual audit would be completed and made public. All funds related to the water system would be separated from other county revenue. The measure also seeks to eventually reduce and eliminate the • cent sales tax levy used to fund water operations.

“The report released last month about the fiscal and management mess at the Water Commission supported my belief that reform was necessary,” Cronin said. “Taxpayers in DuPage County deserve accountability. They deserve capable oversight of tax dollars. This bill is a meaningful effort to make local government more efficient, most cost effective and more transparent.”

The measure now moves to the Illinois House and is sponsored by State Representative Randy Ramey.