A critical discussion on aging wastewater infrastructure took center stage during the Michigan Legislature's Appropriations meeting on July 24, 2025. Officials highlighted the urgent need for a new disinfection system at a local wastewater treatment plant, originally built in 1993, which is now outdated and struggling to function effectively.

The current system, which has been manually operated since a lightning strike damaged its control panel, is increasingly unreliable. The proposed upgrade promises enhanced reliability, efficiency, and performance, alongside lower energy costs and reduced maintenance time. The new system would also allow for real-time monitoring and adjustments, directly benefiting public health.

This upgrade is part of a larger $6.4 million initiative to address the community's aging infrastructure, with sewer lines dating back to the 1950s. The community has already invested over $3 million in lining and grouting projects, with plans for new lift stations costing an additional $3.4 million next year. However, these necessary improvements have led to a staggering 77% increase in sewer rates since 2019, disproportionately affecting low-income residents.

Local leaders emphasized that the community's limited resources make these large projects particularly burdensome, hindering efforts to attract and retain businesses. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has identified the wastewater system upgrade as essential, warning that failure to act could lead to violations and further jeopardize public health.

As the community grapples with these challenges, the urgency for state support and funding has never been clearer. The proposed upgrades are not just about infrastructure; they are about safeguarding the health and economic future of a vulnerable community.