Hazel Park council reads resolution opposing proposed GLWA 2027 wholesale rate hikes

The Hazel Park City Council on Feb. 10 introduced a resolution formally opposing proposed FY2027 wholesale water and sewer rate increases from the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA).

The resolution (No. 2-002-26) states that GLWA’s draft increase would raise wholesale charges to member communities even as regional water demand declines and argues the proposed adjustments would disproportionately burden Hazel Park residents and local businesses. The text says municipalities face additional financial pressure from state-mandated lead service line replacement requirements that lack permanent dedicated funding.

Council materials and the resolution urge greater transparency and accountability at GLWA and call attention to board composition, saying that representation is concentrated in Wayne County and Detroit and arguing for more member-community input on rate-setting. The resolution also notes that GLWA has scheduled a public hearing on the proposal and encourages member communities to comment.

The resolution lays out reasons for opposition—affordability for ratepayers, concerns about how increased revenue would be allocated, and the timing of unfunded infrastructure mandates—but the motion’s final adoption or vote tally is not recorded in the meeting transcript provided.