Illinois Flood Control Plan Sent to Governor

A proposal designed to create a regional commission to oversee flood-control projects in Cook County is on its way to the governor's desk, the Daily Herald reported.

If it is signed by Gov. Rod Blagojevich, Cook County taxpayers may be required to put a little extra money in the coffers, but local officials say that the plan should save money in the long run.

Under the plan, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, the storm water management commission for Cook County, would have the ability to levy up to 5 cents per $100 equalized assessed valuation. That equates to about $35 a year for the owner of a property worth $200,000, the Herald reported.

State Rep. Elaine Nekritz, who sponsored the legislation in the House, told the Herald that six local councils would be created for each of the major watersheds in Cook County. Local officials would work together to come up with flood-control projects that would be prioritized by sewer agency officials.

The Cook County commission is similar to what currently exists in nearby DuPage, Kane and Lake counties.

Source: Daily Herald