St. Charles Reviews 30-Year IMA Contract, Approves Projects

On June 27, 2024, the St. Charles Government Services Committee convened for a comprehensive meeting covering the city’s ongoing partnership with the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMA), upcoming infrastructure improvements, and the progress of the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

The meeting highlighted long-term planning, sustainability efforts, and community engagement on issues ranging from energy supply to biking safety.

IMA Power Sales Contract and Sustainability Efforts

The session began with a detailed overview of IMA, a non-profit municipal cooperative serving 32 Illinois communities, including St. Charles since 1984. Representatives emphasized:

• Stable and affordable power: IMA has reduced wholesale rates by 5% over the last decade, despite transmission cost increases.

• City representation: St. Charles Director of Public Works, Pete Sewer, serves on the IMA board, ensuring direct influence in decisions.

• Three-legged philosophy: IMA balances Affordability, Reliability, and Sustainability in its operations.

Proposed Contract Extension

IMA presented a new 20-year power sales contract, extending the city’s agreement through 2055. The rationale for the long-term extension includes:

• Securing long-term cost stability

• Allowing strategic planning for energy resources

• Mitigating market volatility

Council members raised concerns about the city’s continued reliance on coal (75–80% of current power) and the potential financial implications of carbon capture or other infrastructure projects at the Prairie State plant, where IMA owns 15%.

Sustainability Plan and Renewables

IMA’s Net Zero by 2050 plan was presented, highlighting:

• Current renewable assets (solar, wind, hydro)

• Planned expansion of renewable energy resources

• Integration with an Independent Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to ensure transparent and unbiased future energy planning

• A “cost causer” provision in the new contract to ensure individual cities requesting large energy loads bear associated costs

Council members requested additional independent analysis on the IRP, emphasizing the importance of renewables and long-term transparency. IMA committed to providing detailed responses to follow-up questions.

City Infrastructure and Public Works Approvals

The committee approved several key capital improvement projects:

1. Substation Equipment Purchase – Approved with Schwier Engineering Laboratories Inc.

2. Water Meter Equipment Purchase – Approved with Badger Meter Inc.

3. Dean Street Storm Water Improvements – Design engineering contract approved with HR Green

4. Final Clarifiers Rehabilitation – Bid awarded and approved

5. Illinois Avenue Midblock Crossing Design – Consultant contract approved

These projects aim to enhance water management, electrical infrastructure, and pedestrian safety, aligning with the city’s broader long-term planning goals.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Updates

The city’s first-year bike and pedestrian initiatives were reviewed. Key highlights:

• Focus on “low-hanging fruit” projects to build momentum

• Emphasis on Complete Street elements in future construction projects

• Formation of a citizen committee on bike safety to provide feedback and non-budget impacting ideas

Public comments supported the plan but requested faster implementation, better communication, and enhanced safety measures. Council members encouraged continued grant pursuit for larger projects.

Public Comments and Community Engagement

Residents, including local cycling advocates, emphasized the need for:

• An independent IRP to guide energy planning

• Accelerated renewable energy adoption

• Improved transparency and communication for city projects

IMA representatives responded with a commitment to future engagement and emphasized the importance of long-term planning and member collaboration.

Conclusion

The June 27 meeting showcased St. Charles’ dedication to balancing energy sustainability, infrastructure modernization, and citizen-driven planning. Decisions on substation and water meter upgrades, stormwater improvements, and bicycle/pedestrian initiatives demonstrate the city’s proactive approach to building a resilient, safe, and environmentally conscious community.

FAQs

What was the focus of the June 27, 2024 St. Charles meeting?

The meeting covered the IMA power sales contract, infrastructure upgrades, and progress on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

What concerns did council members raise about the IMA contract?

Council members questioned the city’s reliance on coal, potential carbon capture costs, and the need for more renewable energy planning.

What infrastructure projects were approved?

Approvals included substation equipment, water meters, storm water improvements, final clarifiers rehabilitation, and a pedestrian crossing design.

What progress was reported on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan?

Initial “low-hanging fruit” projects were advanced, with a citizen bike safety committee formed to provide input on future initiatives.

How did residents respond to the meeting discussions?

Residents supported renewable energy expansion, requested faster bike plan implementation, and called for more transparency in city projects.