LANSING, Mich. (Nov. 2, 2023) — Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) and Rep. Mike McFall (D-Hazel Park) issued the following statement on their votes today to pass House Bill 4292, budget supplemental legislation that contains a number of significant investments, including funding for portions of the agreement between the City of Highland Park and the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA).
The supplemental appropriations bill passed today includes $30 million in state funding for GLWA and Highland Park water infrastructure to replace water service lines and modernize the system to reduce water loss and ensure accurate water bills through the installation of water meters. In addition to $15 million in previously approved funds, the supplemental includes $30 million to begin this work.
“It is a good day for Highland Park residents and everyone within the GLWA system,” said Sen. Chang. “Access to water is critical for every Michigander. By providing critical state funding to fix Highland Park’s water infrastructure, we are following through on the agreement reached a few weeks ago and are setting up the whole system for a stronger, more fiscally sustainable future. Highland Park residents have long called for a resolution to this issue and we are very proud that the state has played a key role in leading to this solution.”
“For too long, Highland Park residents have been paying for water that never reaches their homes. With this agreement, bolstered by some state funding, the city’s water infrastructure will be upgraded to modern standards. This agreement will benefit the residents who have been burdened by some of the highest water bills in the state because of Highland Park’s failing infrastructure. Now residents will have reliable water access that they deserve,” said Rep. McFall.
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