Flint, MI – The City of Flint is calling on the City Council to approve a crucial resolution aimed at shielding residents from rising water rates. The proposal seeks to reallocate $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to establish a Water Rate Stabilization Fund, a proactive measure designed to counteract increasing costs from the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) and reduce the financial strain on Flint households.
“For years, Flint residents have faced significant challenges, and the City is committed to providing relief wherever possible,” said Seamus Bannon, Chief Strategy Officer. “This Water Rate Stabilization Fund is a vital step to ensure access to water remains affordable and is not jeopardized by external cost increases.”
Addressing Rising Water Costs
Flint’s water supplier, GLWA, has announced a 5.9% rate increase for the upcoming fiscal year. Since 2015, the City of Flint has worked diligently to stabilize water rates, but continued increases from GLWA necessitate immediate action.
Compounding this issue is the 30-year contract with GLWA, approved by the Flint City Council in 2017, which limits the city’s flexibility in managing water costs. Many have criticized the agreement as a “bad deal” for Flint, arguing that it restricts the city’s ability to seek better financial alternatives.
