Drowning in debt: Chicago alderman wants federal funds to address water debt crisis

A Chicago alderman is asking the city to use federal funds to help families dealing with sky-high water bills.

According to a recent WBEZ report, the cost of water in Chicago has tripled since 2011.

Tens of thousands of Chicagoans who mostly live in Black and Latino neighborhoods are in more than $421-million in debt from unpaid water bills.

Some residents have bills ranging from $11,000 to $40,000.

One reason for the higher prices is former Mayor Rahm Emanuel's decision to raise water and sewer rates to fund infrastructure programs.

Another reason is leaking pipes.

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25th Ward Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez says his recent proposal would fix both issues.

"What we are asking [is] the federal funding that we are receiving, the estimate is over $1-billions dollars just for water infrastructure projects, is used to help and relieve underserved and vulnerable communities," Sigcho-Lopez said.

The alderman's proposal asks that low-income neighborhoods get priority when it comes to distributing infrastructure funds.

It also asks the city to absorb millions of dollars in water debt.