Chicago agrees to accept $20 million in water bill fight

CHICAGO — The city of Harvey has agreed to pay Chicago $20 million in past unpaid water charges.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s office announced Tuesday the money from the suburb south of Chicago will bring to more than $30 million recouped by the city from four “suburban water scofflaws” that has received treated water. The settlement ends a years-long legal battle between the city and Harvey, which stopped making regular water payments to Chicago in late 2008.

Harvey will be required to pay for past bills in monthly installments over the next seven years as well as pay its current bills in full and on time. To make sure Harvey is doing that, the city will have access to the community’s financial system.