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According to an NPDES permit notice shared by the Village of Campton Hills, the Illinois EPA is considering issuing a permit for a new wastewater treatment plant to serve the LaFox of Campton Hills development.
The residential project is the 900-home neighborhood planned between Route 38 and Keslinger Road. The area has no public sewer service, which is why the plant has been proposed. The public has until Nov. 20 to weigh in.
Here’s what to know:
Why a permit is needed: Under the federal Clean Water Act, anyone releasing treated wastewater into a stream or river needs a discharge permit, known as an NPDES permit. The permits limit what can go into the water, require regular testing and reporting, and last up to five years.
Where the water would go: The plant is proposed for a site west of Brundige Road. It would release treated water into Johnson’s Mound Run, a small stream that feeds Mill Creek. A preliminary state assessment found the plant would meet water quality standards.
A lengthy buildout: The plant would be built in phases over a 20-year period. Connecting to the nearby Mill Creek Water Reclamation District was also considered, but months of discussions didn’t lead to an agreement.
How to comment: Written comments and requests for a public hearing must reach the Illinois EPA by Nov. 20, by mail or hand delivery. Commenters must also send a copy to the Grand Prairie Sanitary District. The state may hold a hearing if comments show enough public interest.
The permit notice also noted that the state-endangered Blanding’s turtle may live near the site. The document said the IDNR provided recommendations for minimizing the impact to the species.
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