Will County Drug Court Recovery Homes receive energy efficient upgrades, garden
The Julie Ann House and the Miller Taylor House, the county’s Drug Court recovery homes, have received energy efficiency upgrades in collaboration with the Will County Land Use Department and the Will County Problem Solving Courts. These upgrades were made at no cost to the Drug Court recovery homes through the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance’s (MEEA’s) Savings Through Efficient Products (STEP).
The adjustments and upgrades made to these recovery homes through STEP include “enough LED light bulbs, occupancy sensors, and low-flow showerheads to collectively save an estimated 1,987 therms and 62,389 kWh over the lifetime of the new products. This will result in a savings of approximately $1,000 per year in energy cost,” according to the Office of Will County Executive, Larry Walsh.
During the installation process of the upgrades to the two recovery homes, Will County’s Energy & Conservation Specialist Sam Bluemer spent some time educating the house managers as well as the residents. “Energy efficiency is a great way to save money,” Bluemer said. “For example, LED light bulbs illuminate spaces better, such as a bathroom or office, at a fraction of traditional bulb energy use. Investing in energy efficient home products today will save future energy costs.”
A garden was also planted at the Miller Taylor House by the We WILL Grow School and Community Garden Program, through the County Executive’s office. This garden will not only reduce the cost of food at the recovery homes by providing fresh produce but will also promote healthier eating. Working in the garden can also be therapeutic for the residents.
Walsh spoke about how much he appreciates the efforts of Bluemer in upgrading these recovery homes and about the importance of adding the garden. “As a farmer, I understand the discipline and dedication it takes to yield a healthy crop,” Walsh said. “The residents of this recovery home are using this discipline and dedication to their garden and their recovery. And the energy upgrades are an example of the county’s continued dedication to responsible use of tax payer dollars.”
