BACKGROUND

Staff is proposing approval of the attached Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) in order to participate in Metropolitan Water Reclamation District’s (MWRD) free rain barrel program. 

MWRD’s rain barrel program allows municipalities to order rain barrels complete with connection hardware and home delivery for our residents at no cost.  As a form of green infrastructure, rain barrels are designed to capture and reuse rain water. The water captured by rain barrels can be used to water plants and wash cars at any time regardless of sprinkling restrictions.  Rain barrels provide the added benefit of reducing the amount of water that travels to our storm sewers.  This reduction in rain water can help prevent sewer backups and reduce flooding.  In our combined sewer areas, rain barrels can reduce the amount of “clean” water that needs to be treated by MWRD’s plant.  Rain barrels are an easy way to bring environmental stewardship to the community. 

As part of the program, the Village would accept the residential orders and when we reach a minimum threshold, we would notify MWRD and relay the addresses for delivery.  The Village would be joining 53 other municipalities that are already enrolled in the program. 

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Village Board approve the attached Resolution Approving the Intergovernmental Agreement with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago for the Distribution of Rain Barrels.