William Stiber criticizes Farmington water charge policy during city council meeting

As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Farmington Hills City Hall, residents gathered to voice their concerns during the city council meeting on July 14, 2025. Among them was a passionate homeowner, Mr. Stever, who raised a critical issue regarding the city’s water billing practices.

Mr. Stever, a dedicated Meals on Wheels driver, shared his frustration over the minimum water usage charge of 16 units per quarter, a policy established by the Oakland County Water Resources Department. Despite using 16 units or fewer for ten of the last thirteen quarters, he has been consistently billed for the full amount, resulting in over $200 in unnecessary charges each year. “I want to be equal to everybody else,” he implored, highlighting the financial strain this policy places on seniors and others on fixed incomes.

His plea resonated with many in the room, as he questioned why water usage is not billed based on actual consumption, similar to gas and electric services. “What can we do about this inequality?” he asked, seeking a dialogue with the city council and city manager to address the issue.

In response, city officials acknowledged the concern but clarified that the minimum charge was set by the city of Farmington Hills, as confirmed by Oakland County. They promised to facilitate further discussions between Mr. Stever and city representatives to explore the rationale behind the policy and potential solutions.

As the meeting transitioned to other agenda items, the atmosphere remained charged with the urgency of Mr. Stever’s message. His call for fairness in water billing reflects a broader concern for equitable treatment among residents, particularly those who may struggle to pay for services they do not fully utilize.

The council's commitment to engage with Mr. Stever and investigate the matter further leaves room for hope that changes may be on the horizon, ensuring that all residents are treated fairly in their utility billing practices. As the meeting concluded, the community was left pondering the implications of this discussion and the potential for reform in their local government.