During a recent city council meeting, Elmhurst officials celebrated the city's achievement of the Water Ambassador Gold Award, recognizing its commitment to providing high-quality drinking water and proactive water conservation efforts. The award, presented by the Illinois section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), highlights Elmhurst as one of only 21 communities in Illinois to receive this honor and one of just eight to have maintained it for all three years since the award's inception.

City representatives praised the Public Works Department and its utilities division for their dedication to water conservation and community education. Jonathan Toomey, the utility superintendent, and Cassandra Schreff, the city's communication manager, were specifically acknowledged for their roles in achieving this recognition.

The meeting also featured a public forum where residents could voice their concerns. Jim Hodap entertained attendees with a birthday rap for fellow resident Emily Bastido, while Tom Alter raised a serious issue regarding zoning ordinances related to window wells. Alter argued against proposed changes that would allow window wells in side yard setbacks, citing potential safety hazards and existing zoning regulations that currently prohibit such structures.

The discussions underscored Elmhurst's dual focus on community engagement and regulatory compliance, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to balance development with public safety and environmental stewardship.