Posted on June 23, 2014

Nearly Half of Detroit Water Customers Can’t Pay Their Bill

CBS Detroit, June 23, 2014

It’s a basic human right: water. But could the United Nations soon help the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department provide the service to struggling customers?

Water department spokeswoman Curtrise Garner says it’s a possibility–but for now, the water bills must be paid.

“We do have programs that do help those that are just totally in need; can’t afford it–but we also know that there are also people who can’t afford it would can not pay [sic] and we know this because, once we shut water off, the next day they are in paying the bill in full. So we do know that that has become a habit as well,” said Garner.

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Garner said the reality is that nearly half of Detroit Water and Sewerage customers can’t pay their bills; and that has led activists to lobby the UN to step up and take action.

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According to the Free Press, the average Detroit water bill is now $75 a month–much higher than the nation’s average rate of about $40.

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