Dupage Policy Journal

Following the announcement of increased trash service charges in the City of West Chicago, Heather Brown, a candidate for the Illinois State Senate District 25 and Independent Alderman of West Chicago, expressed concerns about the additional financial burden on residents. She emphasized that this increase would contribute to the cumulative impact of rising taxes on various essentials.

“Adding additional taxes on our properties, on our fuel, electric, on our water & sewer, on groceries, now this,” Brown said on Facebook. “I pray for everyone who is living paycheck to paycheck, on a fixed income, retired with a COLA (cost of living adjustment) of only 3% increase. While our State increases have gone up OVER 9% this year; without including necessities of living.”

“May God watch over us and give us the wisdom for change to our great State and the gratitude for what we have. For we must start opening our eyes to the devil spreading lies upon we the people of this great nation. The adjustments have sparked concerns and discussions about the overall financial strain on residents in the region.

The City of West Chicago announced these changes via social media. 

"The City of West Chicago Government’s garbage and recycling pickup service provider, Groot Industries Inc., will increase its service charges by approximately 3% for residential solid waste collections as part of their contract with the City," it said on Facebook. "The new service rates will be effective as of January 1, 2024."

According to information provided by West Chicago's website starting from Jan. 1, Groot Industries Inc. will implement changes to its service charges for residential solid waste collections. The adjustments, outlined in the updated service fees, include increases for various cart sizes and additional services. For the 35-Gallon cart at the Senior Rate, there will be a $0.29 increase to $10.13, while the Regular Rate will see a $0.44 rise to $15.00. The 95-Gallon cart will have a $0.62 increase, bringing it to $21.33. Additional changes include a $0.08 increase to the Universal Sticker, now priced at $2.59, and a $6.56 raise for the Yard Waste Cart Annual Subscription, reaching $225.11.

Brown is an independent Alderman of West Chicago, known for her seven-year tenure and bridging political divides.. She is known for her consistent "No" votes on levies, demonstrating a commitment to fiscal conservatism. This principled stance extends to opposing water rate increases, reflecting a dedication to responsible financial decisions that prioritize the community’s well-being.

The State Senate District 25 is currently represented by State Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago). It includes all or parts of Aurora, North Aurora, Batavia, West Chicago, South Elgin, Wayne and Bartlett.