Summary as Introduced
Amends the Community Energy, Climate, and Jobs Planning Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.
Staff Analysis
House Amendment 1 (Adopted)
House Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 663 creates a specific process for the dissolution of the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District, allowing for a structured transfer of its powers, assets, and responsibilities primarily to the City of Joliet, with Will County potentially involved in a limited role. This legislation has several administrative and operational implications for both the city and the county.
Key elements of the amendment include:
1. Two-Resolution Requirement for Dissolution
The sanitary district may only be dissolved if:
• Its board adopts a resolution calling for dissolution.
• The Joliet City Council adopts a resolution accepting the transfer within 14 days of the district’s resolution.
This tight timeline ensures both parties are aligned and actively participating in the transition.
2. Required Contents of Both Resolutions
Each resolution must confirm:
• The reasons for the dissolution.
• That there are no outstanding debts, or that Joliet can cover them.
• That no state or federal permits or grants would be impaired.
• That Joliet will assume all responsibilities and assets, except for those it deems unnecessary.
3. Role of Will County
If the City of Joliet identifies certain assets of the sanitary district as unnecessary for ongoing operations, those assets will be transferred to the County of Will, which would then assume responsibility.
• This creates a subsidiary role for the county, possibly involving land, equipment, or infrastructure not essential to Joliet’s future operations.
4. Transfer of Statutory Powers
Upon dissolution, all legal powers held by the sanitary district will be assumed by the City of Joliet, giving the city full authority to operate the system under existing statutory frameworks.
5. Notification to the Illinois EPA
Within 60 days of the city’s resolution, Joliet must notify the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), ensuring regulatory oversight is maintained and that environmental permits are updated or transferred as needed.
Impacts for local governments:
• City of Joliet: Gains direct control over local sanitary infrastructure but also assumes responsibility for debts, operations, and regulatory compliance. Must act quickly to adopt its resolution and manage the transition process.
• Will County: May inherit surplus or non-essential assets, which could require planning for future use, maintenance, or disposal.
• Administrative coordination: The process requires close communication and legal coordination between the district, city, county, and IEPA to ensure a compliant and efficient transfer.
Overall, the amendment facilitates the consolidation of sanitary services under municipal control, likely aimed at improving operational efficiency and streamlining governance, while providing a safeguard role for the county.