GLWA approves water, sewer rate increase despite objections from Flint residents

DETROIT, Mich. — Despite pleas from dozens of Flint residents and city officials, the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) board moved forward with a water rate increase.

The GLWA Board of Directors met Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, and approved a 5.8 percent average increase for water services and a 4.26 percent average increase for wastewater services. The latest increase comes on the heels of a nearly 6 percent rate hike in 2025.

GLWA officials said the increases followed months of engagement with member communities and public hearings and reflect the need to invest in aging infrastructure.

“Budget and charge increases are never implemented lightly,” said Suzanne R. Coffey, P.E., Chief Executive Officer, GLWA. “However, our regional system is at an inflection point. Aging infrastructure is deteriorating faster than it can be replaced under the current funding model.”

In 2017, city officials approved a 30-year contract with GLWA after a failed attempt during the Flint water crisis to connect to a less expensive alternative. That agreement has limited the city’s ability to seek lower-cost options.

Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley expressed frustration and disappointment with the board’s decision.

“I am deeply disappointed that, after hearing powerful testimony about the affordability crisis facing residents in Flint and communities across the state, the board still chose to approve another significant rate increase,” Neeley said. “It is clear to me that those concerns were not given the weight they deserved.”

Neeley said his administration will work to add funding to the city’s Water Stabilization Fund to prevent the rate increases from being passed on to residents.