Hastings Utility Town Hall gets answers for residents

TINLEY PARK – There have been numerous reports of skyrocketing water bills in the village of Tinley Park along with stunning increases in energy costs. Some were so outrageous that it sparked the concern of Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Tinley Park).

“I have received phone calls and met with constituents regarding their water and electric bills, some of the stories are outrageous,” Hastings said. “I may not have control over the water meters in Tinley Park or the utility companies that provide services to our neighbors, but I will bring those who are responsible to the table to answer the problems of our residents.”

Murray Helfer, a resident of Tinley Park, told Senator Hastings that, “In 2007, when the new digital meters were installed my quarterly bill tripled. I called public works and did what I was asked to do. When they came out to replace the meter, they took it off my house and it was still running.”

Over one hundred people showed up at Senator Hastings Utility Town Hall meeting who were concerned about their utility bills. “You have to listen to the people, tell them the truth and help them. They elected us to represent them,” Hastings said. “I was happy the forum provided an opportunity for the Mayor to apologize and take constituent complaints, I give him a lot of credit. He owned up to the problem and said he will fix it, I hope that he does.”

As residents exited they thanked Senator Hastings. “I greatly admire (his) dedication to the people of Tinley Park,” said Mrs. Bickham, a Tinley Park resident