Water Rate Increase Sparks Affordability Concerns in Michigan
The recent decision by the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) to increase water and sewer rates has reignited conversations about water affordability legislation in Michigan. The GLWA board approved a 5.8% rise in water system rates and a 4.25% increase for wastewater services, impacting around 40% of the state’s population who rely on the Detroit water system.
Suzanne R. Coffey, CEO of GLWA, highlighted the critical state of the regional water infrastructure, noting, “Our regional system is at an inflection point. Aging infrastructure is deteriorating faster than it can be replaced under the current funding model, while climate impacts and operational demands continue to rise.” This statement comes as GLWA addresses a leak in a major water transmission line in Chesterfield Township.
However, the rate hike has raised concerns about its financial impact on residents. Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley expressed the challenges faced by communities like Flint, stating, “We are a community that has been bruised and battered and we’re coming back. We’re rising. But every time we get a hit like this, it can be devastating for some families.”
To mitigate the impact, Flint officials are considering augmenting the City’s Water Stabilization Fund with an additional $1 million. Flint city council president Candace Mushatt acknowledged the necessity, saying, “While it is not ideal that once again, we have to plug such a large amount into our water fund, I stand in agreement with the fact that it needs to be done.”
City leaders are urging state legislators to take action to limit future rate hikes, with proposals that include capping water bills for low-income households at 3% of their income.
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