Detroit Evening Report: Highland Park, GLWA reach deal to extend negotiations over $24M water debt
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Highland Park City Council members have approved an interim agreement with the Great Lakes Water Authority over its $24 million debt.
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The city will pay the regional water system $1 million to extend negotiations over the remaining debt.
Mayor Glenda McDonald told residents that the approval by a 4-1 vote sidesteps a tax levy that would triple property taxes in the city.
“We’re moving forward. We’re going to try to make sure that we mediate and negotiate to the best of our ability to make sure that the citizens do not get this levy,” McDonald says. “That vote just stayed — doesn’t mean that we’re finished — but it’s a stay, which gives us a chance to go back in and mediate.”
The agreement gives Highland Park and the water authority until October to reach an agreement over the outstanding debt.
The city was first sued in 2014 over a 2009 agreement concerning sewerage payments. Since then, Highland Park’s tab has risen after failing to pay the debt.
Other headlines for June 6, 2023:
- Detroit residents deal with water service interruptions after multiple main breaks
- National Weather Services issues elevated fire risk for Michigan
- Michigan lawmakers consider repealing law requiring schools to start after Labor Day
- Amtrak temporarily suspends two daily service lines from Detroit to Chicago
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