Maryville prepares to be proactive about PFAS in village water
By Kathy Turner • On an almost daily basis we hear of communities that are dealing with PFAS in their water systems. PFAS is an acronym for (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) that have found their way into groundwater and water systems as the result of waste disposal. These substances come from everyday items such as plastics, Teflon and Scotchgard™.
There are no concerns with the water in Maryville. But, in an effort to be proactive, Matt Hoffmann, the water superintendent, advised that a plan should be in place should such be identified. The plan will help develop mitigation strategies if elevated levels are detected; strengthen the village’s preparedness for any regulatory changes or requirements that may be enacted; and demonstrate a commitment to providing safe, high-quality drinking water.
As a result, the village board on Wednesday, Dec. 4 approved a proposal from Juneau Associates, Inc., to prepare a response and action plan for the village. The contract was for $14,300.
In other, related action, the board approved two staff hirings. Jay Wiegers was hired and appointed superintendent of the water plant. Jason Coppotelli will take the role of full-time water plant operator.
The board passed an ordinance in support of the 2026 celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Illinois American250 Commemoration encourages local communities to plan activities in celebration of the event.
The board approved the renewal of the village’s Liability and Worker’s Compensation Insurance with Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust. Cost of the annual premium is $459,906.
As it was the first meeting of the month, department heads reported on their November activities. The Building and Zoning and Code Enforcement department issued eleven permits in the month. There are five projects in progress in the village – Anderson Hospital Expansion, Over the Moon, Maryville Women’s Center, The Bottle Shop, and new townhouses.
There are currently five buildings at different levels of court actions including demolitions. Shane Fuller also reported that his department and the fire department went to the Loyalty Inn in response to complaints. The motel received notice of zoning violations and life safety issues. They were given a deadline to address the issues.
Chief Dankenbring reported that the fire department responded to 146 calls for service in November. Included was a call to a residential structure on Oxborough Court during a thunderstorm. Mutual aid was called and neighbors assisted with the residents. There were no injuries, but the home was a total loss. The cause was not determined yet but there was a great amount of lightning associated with the storm.
Chief Manley reported that officers of the police department charted 1,448 service incidents in November. They issued 142 citations and wrote 14 accident reports. They also conducted department-wide Counter Terrorism Awareness training.
The board authorized the mayor to sign a mutual agreement with regards to jurisdiction and maintenance of the Route 162 and Old Troy Road Roundabout. This is a standard agreement to outline care of the intersection that serves two communities.
Mayor Wayne White ended the meeting with appointments to the Community Improvement Board. Linda Garcia will assume a position with a term to expire in April of 2027. Ed Votoupal will fill a position with a term to expire April of 2028. Both fill vacancies of members who retired from the committee. The board approved the appointments.
The next board meeting will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m.
