Ald. Pat Dowell (3), chair of the finance committee, is pictured. [Don Vincent/The Daily Line]

Alderpeople on the finance committee approved the creation of a relief program for residents who have received sky-high water bills after underground leaks, but some implored the city to look at ways to expand program eligibility following a pilot period.

On Monday, the committee approved an ordinance (O2024-0008889) creating a two-year pilot program that will provide financial assistance to property owners whose water and sewer bills jumped as a result of a leak in their metered water service line.