DWSD Statement on Court Ruling Related to Governor's Emergency Orders
The Michigan Supreme Court ruling on October 2, 2020 revoking Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s COVID-19 emergency orders has caused many to question whether water utilities and municipalities in Michigan will resume residential water shutoffs. The court ruling does not change the current direction of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) as this official statement outlines:
In compliance with Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-28, DWSD has restored water to every Detroiter who contacted us or Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency and was living in a household without water service. In cases where private plumbing and/or sewer defects prevented restoration, DWSD either utilized CARES Act funds, other funds in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic or other grant dollars to make the necessary repairs or worked with the Detroit Health Department, Detroit Housing and Revitalization Department and Detroit Land Bank Authority to find alternative housing for the family. Water service will be maintained for the duration of the state of emergency or the duration of any and all COVID-19 funding programs, whichever is later. After that time, no resident should be without water service for inability to pay their bill—all they need to do is ask for assistance. There are a multitude of programs for our residents, including the 10/30/50 Payment Plan, the Water Residential Assistance Program (WRAP), WRAP-finity (discounted bill for income-qualifying senior and permanently disabled residents), State Emergency Relief Funds, and the Detroit Community Health Corps. DWSD remains vigilant in its efforts to secure additional funding sources and programs for our residents. The recent court rulings regarding Governor Whitmer's executive powers do not affect DWSD’s actions.