Detroit Water and Sewerage Department
Coverage of Detroit Water and Sewerage Department in the Nexus archive.
- Detroit to repair 9,000 faulty alley sewer lines for free by 2030
Detroit plans to repair 9,000 residential sewer connections for free by 2030 using $184 million from a federal grant to reduce sewage backups and alley issues. The program, starting in October 2024, aims to address aging infrastructure and prevent property damage without cost to residents.
- Detroit council weighs legal settlement with realty group with hundreds of rundown rentals
Detroit City Council is considering a settlement requiring Munoz Realty to bring 299 poorly maintained rental properties up to code by 2028. The agreement includes monthly abatement of 10 properties, 50% reduction in blight tickets for compliant units, and collaboration with city departments. Council President James Tate raised concerns about the lack of clarity on prioritizing occupied properties.
- Neighbors call for action after shooting kills man, injures child on Detroit’s west side
A shooting on Detroit’s west side killed a 20-year-old man and critically injured a 7-year-old child. Federal prosecutors charged Lonnie Moore, a 32-year-old convicted felon, with firearm possession, alleging the incident stemmed from a chain-related dispute. Neighbors attribute rising violence to blight in the area, urging city officials to address vacant properties and crime.
- Detroit family says they were wrongly billed for using over 110K gallons of water -- what city said
A Detroit family disputes a high water bill for over 110,000 gallons used in two months, claiming it is inaccurate. The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department acknowledged the issue, replaced the water meter, and plans to use a one-time leak policy to resolve the billing discrepancy.
- ‘We’re not a car wash’: Detroit family challenges water bills, claiming 110K gallons used in just 2 months
A Detroit family disputes water bills claiming excessive usage of 110,000 gallons over two months, citing no leaks and a plumber's report. The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department acknowledges the discrepancy and offers a payment plan and a 'fresh start' to resolve the issue.
- Guide: Michigan’s water affordability issue by the numbers
Michigan’s inflation-adjusted average water costs rose 188% between 1980 and 2018, with Detroit and Flint seeing 285% and 320% increases, respectively. Up to 10.75% of Michigan households spend over 5% of income on water, prompting bipartisan legislation to cap bills for low-income residents and protect against shutoffs. A 2022 University of Michigan study linked water shutoffs to health risks and forced residents to ration water.