Park Forest residents should anticipate increased water and sewer bills starting in August.

According to Finance Director Mark Pries, the 5% rate increase became effective on July 1, and residents will notice the difference in their upcoming bills. The Village decided to raise water and sewer rates due to aging infrastructure.

"Most of the water and sewer pipes in the ground here in Park Forest are from the mid-20th century," Pries said. "So, the main reason for the increase in rates is to replace this old infrastructure."

The water rate has been increased from $19.91 per 1000 gallons to $20.91 per 1000 gallons, while the sewer rate has gone up from $3.64 per 1000 gallons to $3.82 per 1000 gallons.

Pries acknowledged that many people are facing tough times and mentioned that programs are in place to help those who need assistance paying their water bills. He encouraged anyone in need to contact the Water Department at 708-748-1112 for more information.

Even with the price increase, there are ways for people to reduce their bills. Pries suggested that checking for water leaks and washing dishes at night could help residents save money.

"There are a variety of things residents can do to save," Pries said. "Cutting back on the time you spend in the shower and not watering your grass in the summer can help you cut costs. Additionally, do not fill the washing machine with water when you have smaller loads of laundry."

Pries added, "Replace old toilets with toilets that do not use no more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Also, toilets are typically the main source of water leaks in a home."

Pries said residents should listen for their toilets to stop running after they are flushed and not assume that very little water is being wasted if they hear the toilet running. Some toilet leaks use the same amount of water as turning on the sink faucet or the hose outside.