In rural Illinois, access to safe, reliable water can be a significant challenge. This is where EJ Water Cooperative has stepped in, transforming how small communities across downstate Illinois receive one of life’s most essential resources. Founded in 1989, we are committed to improving water quality, system reliability and affordable rates for rural communities.
Remarkable Growth Through Strategic Expansion
What started as a small cooperative in 1989 has grown into the fastest growing regional water system in rural Illinois, now serving more than 14,500 members and a population of over 75,000 across multiple counties. Under CEO Bill Teichmiller’s leadership, the cooperative has grown from serving 3,300 meters with 9 employees to over 14,500 meters with a team of 38 employees.
Strategic Infrastructure Investment
EJ Water’s most significant achievement has been the commitment to infrastructure development. During the recession, rather than reducing services, the cooperative invested in two new water treatment plants that can produce 4.5 million gallons of water daily. This substantial capacity ensures reliable service for current members while enabling expansion to additional communities.
Beyond individual household connections, EJ Water provides wholesale water service to 20 communities across its 3,200 square mile service area. This approach helps small municipalities provide high-quality water service without the enormous capital investment required for independent treatment plants.
The Cooperative Difference
As a not-for-profit cooperative, EJ Water operates with a mission to grow families, communities, and businesses while fostering economic development. This community focused approach means decisions are made based on what’s best for the members of the communities we serve, ensuring compliance and water quality standards are being met.
EJ Water has been recognized for its innovative cross-utility work, winning awards in both water and wastewater to rural residents and small communities. This demonstrates our commitment to addressing multiple infrastructure needs in rural communities.
Building Sustainable Rural Communities
EJ Water’s work creates sustainability on multiple levels:
Economic Development: Reliable water service enables businesses to establish and expand in rural areas, making these locations more attractive for economic development.
Public Health: By connecting homes to professionally treated water systems, the cooperative eliminates health risks associated with contaminated private wells.
Community Resilience: The regional approach allows small communities to share resources and expertise, making water service more resilient and affordable than individual municipal systems.
A Model for Rural Success
EJ Water Cooperative’s success demonstrates that rural communities don’t have to accept substandard water service. Through innovative thinking, strategic investment, and cooperative principles, small communities can access the same quality of water service enjoyed by urban areas.
For the thousands of families and businesses served by EJ Water, the impact is profound: reliable access to safe, clean water. As we continue expanding our service area, one thing remains constant – our commitment to improving quality of life in rural communities, proving that with the right approach, small communities can thrive with world-class utility services.
