Fines will be Enforced for Tampering with Metropolis City Water Shut-offs – $100 first offense – 2nd offense up to $750

(WMOK – Metropolis, IL) As fines and fees rise to meet today’s costs in the City of Metropolis, JK Thomas spoke with WMOK regarding increased fines for tampering with city owned water shut offs.

Thomas told WMOK that this issue is one that’s been ongoing and hasn’t been enforced in the past but must now be enforced as it is costing the city a great deal of money.

The water shut-off, located in the ride of way – usually between the street and the sidewalk is the property of the city of Metropolis and is not to be tampered with by citizens.

The materials alone to replace the valve when it is damaged is between $300 and $600. Thomas said 50% of leaks that they have to repair in any given month are related to someone tampering with the valve.

Thomas said that residents should have their own master water shut-off located on their property.

The minimum fine is $100 for the first offense of tampering with the city water shut off. The second offense can be as much as $750. Superintendent Thomas said those amounts just cover the end of the fine – repair costs will be assessed as well.

If folks need their water turned off they must call the city of Metropolis at 618-524-4016. Thomas told WMOK that when the city shuts their water off they will need to confirm that the homeowner has had a master water shut-off installed on their property before restoring water service.

Superintendent Thomas first discussed this on Coffee Break in January and followed up on the topic in February – Hear both below:

The city code referenced in this story is § 53.08 TAMPERING. It states ” It shall be unlawful for any person, not authorized by the city to tamper with, alter, or injure any part of the City Water Works System, or any meter.” It can be read here –> https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/metropolis/latest/metropolis_il/0-0-0-2279