Council Debates IMA Contract, Approves Sewer, Software Projects

The St. Charles Government Services Committee convened on April 23, 2024, with discussions focused on energy sustainability, city infrastructure, and modernizing public works operations. Citizens voiced strong opinions on the IMA power contract, coinciding with Earth Day 2024, highlighting community interest in clean energy and climate action.

IMA Power Sales Contract and Sustainability Plan

The meeting’s primary focus was the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMA) power sales contract. Key points included:

• IMA requested a 20-year extension from 2035 to 2055 to ensure long-term resource planning and affordable rates. Longer-term contracts typically secure 20–30% lower costs.

• IMA’s Sustainability Plan aims for Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050, aligning with the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (SIA). The plan emphasizes:

  • Increasing renewable energy generation

  • Expanding energy efficiency programs

  • Implementing demand response measures

  • Enhancing EV infrastructure

• Currently, 11% of IMA’s energy comes from non-carbon emitting sources, exceeding state requirements.

• IMA partially owns the Prairie State coal plant, labeled “clean coal” by IMA; however, public commenters challenged this, citing it as Illinois’ largest CO2 emitter.

Member Directed Resource Option

A new feature in the contract allows St. Charles to accelerate renewable energy adoption independently, fully funding projects beyond IMA’s general plan. This flexibility enables the city to pursue aggressive sustainability targets without waiting for agency-wide implementation.

Public Feedback

Residents and environmental advocates voiced concerns regarding:

• The reliance on coal power, especially from the Prairie State plant.

• The need for alternative energy providers and competitive bids.

• The importance of long-term planning and future-proofing the city’s energy portfolio.

Staff committed to providing alternative energy options in May and presenting the actual contract in June for further review.

Public Works Software Upgrade: OpenGov Inc.

The committee approved a 42-month service agreement with OpenGov Inc. for work order and asset management software. Key benefits include:

• Centralizing service requests and project tracking

• Replacing manual processes and disparate systems (Excel, Access)

• Enhancing productivity, data collection, and cost transparency

• Supporting forecasting and capital planning

The investment, approximately $144,000 in the first year, with ongoing annual costs near $200,000, was supported by council members as a critical modernization step. Public Works will report on software performance and cost savings after the first year.

Indiana Street Storm and Sanitary Sewer Line Project

The committee awarded the bid to JNS for improvements to Indiana Street’s storm and sanitary sewer lines. The project aims to upgrade city infrastructure, reduce flooding risk, and improve long-term water management for residents.

Final Thoughts

The April 23 meeting showcased St. Charles’ commitment to balancing infrastructure modernization with sustainability concerns. Decisions on OpenGov software and the Indiana Street sewer project demonstrate proactive investment in city operations, while the IMA contract discussion reflects active civic engagement and a focus on future-proofing the city’s energy strategy.

The meeting emphasized the importance of transparent governance, citizen input, and long-term planning as St. Charles navigates both infrastructure upgrades and environmental responsibility.

FAQs

What was the main focus of the April 23, 2024 St. Charles meeting?

The main focus was debating the IMA power sales contract, along with sewer upgrades and modernization of public works software.

What sustainability goals did IMA present?

IMA aims for Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050, expanding renewable energy, efficiency programs, EV infrastructure, and demand response measures.

What flexibility does the new IMA contract offer St. Charles?

It includes a Member Directed Resource Option, allowing St. Charles to independently invest in renewable projects beyond IMA’s general plan.

What public works software was approved?

The committee approved OpenGov Inc. for a 42-month contract to centralize work orders, asset management, and improve cost transparency.

What infrastructure project was awarded?

The Indiana Street storm and sanitary sewer project was awarded to JNS, aimed at reducing flooding risks and upgrading city water management.