HB3590 amends the Illinois Municipal Code and the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act to expressly allow open space to be used for temporary stormwater storage. The bill states that this use does not count as a change in use, which is important for properties that were acquired or developed as open space and may be subject to restrictions tied to that designation.
The bill also clarifies that temporary stormwater storage does not conflict with any requirement that the property remain open to the public for recreation. It defines “temporary stormwater storage” as a detention basin or other system designed to temporarily collect, hold, and remove stormwater runoff. In practical terms, the measure is intended to support flood control and stormwater management while preserving the legal status of public open space lands.
Impact
HB3590 would create new statutory language in two areas of Illinois law: the Illinois Municipal Code and the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act. By specifying that temporary stormwater storage is permitted in open space and is not a change in use, the bill would reduce legal uncertainty for municipalities and land managers using parks, preserves, or other open lands for detention or runoff control. It would also protect eligibility or compliance for lands that must remain open for recreation, while allowing them to serve a stormwater function.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no documented debate or formal vote history to gauge legislative sentiment. Based on the bill text alone, the proposal appears policy-oriented and technical, aimed at clarifying land-use rules rather than creating a controversial new program. The framing suggests a generally practical approach to balancing flood management with open-space preservation.
Contention
The main potential point of contention is the interaction between stormwater detention and open-space/recreation requirements. Supporters would likely emphasize flexibility for municipalities, flood mitigation, and efficient use of public land, while any critics might worry about whether temporary stormwater storage could alter the character, accessibility, or intended use of open-space properties. Because no discussion transcripts are available, no specific legislators, agencies, or stakeholder groups are identified as opposing or supporting the measure.
Provides for requirements for rainwater harvesting designed to temporarily store stormwater runoff for detention or re-use through retention; may assist in meeting stormwater runoff reduction goals.