Section 65 ILCS 5/11-135.5-5 - FindingsThe General Assembly finds that:
(1) It is necessary and in the public interest to help assure a sufficient and economic supply of a source of water of suitable quality within those areas of this State that are dependent on ground water supply from portions of the Cambrian-Ordovician aquifer as well as shallow aquifers, and where those aquifers are expected not to be able to provide a sufficient supply of water or water of suitable quality to one or more municipalities which may be located in more than a single county, and where, because of economic development and population growth and proximity to large urban centers, the health, safety, and welfare of the residents is threatened by the continuing reduction in the amount of ground water and quality of ground water that can be obtained from the aquifers.(2) Because of a need to provide such municipalities a continuing, available, and adequate source and supply of water on an economically viable basis, it is necessary and desirable to establish a different structure for municipalities in the affected region to jointly establish a source of water supply and the necessary waterworks and other supporting facilities as needed to provide a reliable, sustainable, and high-quality source of water on a cost-effective basis.(3) It is not the intent of the General Assembly to interfere with the structure and operation of other water commissions and county water commissions already existing around the State on the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 102nd General Assembly or to interfere with the power of municipalities to provide for the retail distribution of water to its residents or the customers of its water systems.(4) It is in the State's best interest to provide for a sufficient and economic supply of water to such areas.Added by P.A. 102-0684,§ 5, eff. 12/16/2021.