Battle Creek council discusses water agreement with Emma Township amid controversies

During the City Commission regular meeting on February 18, 2025, significant discussions centered around a controversial water agreement between Battle Creek and Emma Township. Joe Harris, a resident of Battle Creek, raised concerns regarding Resolution 31, which pertains to a high-pressure water transmission line recently installed to connect Waterloo and Emmett.

Harris highlighted troubling revelations about the installation process, alleging that approximately $13 million worth of piping was laid without the knowledge of the Emmett Board. He claimed that a former supervisor, described as "rogue," signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) without informing the board. This lack of transparency reportedly led to a situation where the board was blindsided during a meeting on November 24, where the piping was presented for sale to Emmett for just one dollar.

The implications of this agreement are significant, as it raises questions about governance and accountability within local leadership. Harris expressed concerns about the maintenance of lift stations, which are crucial for the water system's functionality. He pointed out that if Battle Creek was responsible for maintaining these stations, their poor condition warranted further investigation.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the need for transparency and collaboration between the involved parties. As the city moves forward with the water agreement, the community will be watching closely to ensure that all stakeholders are held accountable and that the infrastructure is maintained properly. The outcome of this agreement could have lasting effects on water management and intergovernmental relations in the region.