Update on move to Lake Michigan water among topics at Oswego State of the Village address
'We are truly a village on the rise,' Kauffman said.
Kauffman, who was elected as village president in 2023, reflected on the past year's economic growth and infrastructure projects during his presentation at Oswego Village Hall.
'We have seen new businesses open their doors, our infrastructure improvements take shape, our village budget has a surplus and property tax rates are at their lowest level on record,' Kauffman said. 'The past year has shown once again that our greatest strength lies in our sense of community.'
In the past year the village has made investments in infrastructure, public safety and economic development, he said.
'These are investments not just about today but about building a stronger tomorrow. New businesses are opening their doors, our roads, water and public spaces are improving and our local economy is surging,' Kauffman said. 'We have taken steps to ensure responsible growth while maintaining our small-town charm that makes Oswego unique.'
The village is expanding its infrastructure to support a growing community, he said. One of the notable projects has been the ongoing efforts to bring Lake Michigan water to Oswego. After years of work, the Village Board in October 2024 officially joined the DuPage Water Commission.
'After years of discussion and negotiation in establishing the legal framework, Phase II engineering is nearly complete,' he said, concerning three main connection points, also known as receiving stations, to connect with Lake Michigan water provided by the DuPage Water Commission.
Some of the construction will begin this summer on the project.
'Overall construction will take roughly two years,' he said. 'Water from Lake Michigan will be flowing to our taps in the summer of 2028. This project will enhance our water supply and support the village's long-term sustainability.'
Another key project is the proposed expansion of the village's Public Works facility built in 2002, he said. The current building was designed for a population of about 17,000, officials have said. With the village's population at about 38,000, the village has outgrown the building's capacity, according to officials.
The facility's structural limitations and a growing workforce have made expansion a necessity, Kauffman said. The Village Board will review plans for the expansion project and the related costs.
'Depending on the option selected, construction could begin as early as fall 2025 with anticipated completion by spring of 2027. This investment in our infrastructure is essential for enhanced efficiency of our public services and supporting future growth and prosperity of our community,' Kauffman said.
Another notable project is the Wolfs Crossing corridor improvements, he said.
The Wolfs Crossing widening project is another 'example of our commitment as a village on the rise,' according to Kauffman.
As for economic development, Oswego trustees in February approved an ordinance to allow for two new commercial buildings including a grocery store as well as a restaurant and bank at the southeast corner of Route 34 and Kendall Point Drive in the village.
'The Village Board approved a new grocery destination on Route 34. It will bring fresh produce, quality products in an enhanced shopping experience to our community,' Kauffman said.
Kauffman also highlighted the Oswego Police Department's launch of a Community Engagement Unit.
'A key part of building a stronger community is ensuring that every resident feels safe, heard and supported. Public safety is more than enforcement – it's about engagement, trust and collaboration,' he said.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the partnership between officers and the community in part to identify matters before they become larger issues, he said.
Regular public programs will be held as part of the unit's efforts, including educational programs and community gatherings, he said.
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