During a recent city council meeting in Elmhurst, the city was honored with the prestigious Water Ambassador Gold Award from the Illinois section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The award recognizes the city's commitment to water conservation, consumer education, and the promotion of safe drinking water. Ralph Grama, a trustee of the AWWA, highlighted Elmhurst's proactive approach to water management, noting that it is one of only 21 communities in Illinois to receive this accolade this year and one of just eight to have won it every year since the program's inception in 2021.

Grama praised the city's public works department and its staff for their dedication to providing high-quality water services, emphasizing the importance of clean and abundant drinking water for the community. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the city's administration, public works employees, and communication teams in achieving this recognition.

In addition to the award presentation, the meeting included a public forum where residents voiced their concerns. One resident, Jim Hodap, delivered a light-hearted birthday rap for a council member, while another, Tom Altergott, raised serious concerns regarding proposed changes to zoning ordinances related to window wells and side yard setbacks. Altergott argued that allowing unrestricted window wells in setbacks could pose safety risks and urged the council to reconsider these proposals.

The meeting underscored the city's ongoing commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship, as well as the active engagement of its residents in local governance.