The Thing About Water: Heights vs. Hammond

As I wash my face in the morning I can't help but to think about it: Water is an easy thing to take for granted.

Whether it's the dishes, the laundry, a quick shower or a drink, the day-to-day survival of a household is often contingent upon good, clean running water. 

This could serve as a blaring reminder to us about the importance of the clear stuff. Obviously we're not in danger of losing running water in the Heights, but the price of it will likely be going up soon. Normally when the price of something increases, many of us consider cutting it from our households. We don't really have a choice when it comes to water. 

The initial deal between Chicago Heights and Hammond happened 30 years ago, when Charles Panici was still mayor (his name has made its way into some of our recent stories). That deal is ending and the new one could put many Heights residents and business owners in a bad place financially.

Hopefully we don't see the massive increase proposed by Hammond. While Mayor Gonzalez has already explained that only a portion of your water bill is actually for water, can you imagine if that portion was multiplied by three or four? No thanks. 

That's why the Heights is suing Hammond. The next court date will be on Nov. 5. Patch will post an update on the state of this mess afterwards.

In the meantime, enjoy the 57-cents-per-gallon water. 

Follow the Heights-Hammond water dispute, as it unfolds, on Patch:

• City Hits Impasse In Hammond Water Negotiations
  
• Heights Car Wash Owner: New Water Rates 'Would Put Us Out'

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