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Water and sewer staff outline lead‑service work, meter replacement and upcoming rate study
Summary
Public‑works staff described ongoing lead‑service‑line replacements, a planned water‑meter replacement procurement and projected supplier rate increases; staff said they aim to present a water‑and‑sewer rate study to council prior to adoption.
St. Clair Shores — Public Works and water‑system staff briefed council April 28 on the utility budget and planned capital work, telling members that lead‑service‑line replacements and a meter‑replacement procurement are active priorities.
Staff reported ongoing work under the state lead‑service‑line program, noting seven replacements in 2024 and known locations where galvanized or lead materials remain. For houses where the service‑line material is uncertain, crews are using a small excavation near the curb stop to determine material type before scheduling replacements.
The city has opened bids for a water‑meter replacement project and is preparing follow‑up questions to prospective contractors. Staff said they will present project detail and a procurement schedule and may convene an advisory committee to review responses. The draft budget also includes requests for water‑main projects on Alexander and Cedar streets and a proposed generator for a reservoir site.
Utility staff referenced supplier‑side rate increases: Great Lakes Water and Sanitary (GLWA/SCMSD) draft increases were cited in staff analysis (representatives said GLWA increase ~5.5% and SCMSD ~6.2% were in staff materials) and staff said the city’s proposed combined rate change for customers is expected to be near 5.4%, with the goal of keeping the municipal commodity and fixed charges aligned with supplier increases.
Staff said they will circulate the detailed rate model and recommended ordinance amendments ahead of any public notice and hearing on rate changes.
