Manton Debates $5.9M Water Project Amid Affordability Concerns

City officials weigh water safety upgrades against potential doubling of resident water bills.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Manton, Michigan officials are facing a difficult decision on a $5.9 million water infrastructure project that would upgrade the city's aging water system, including replacing lead service lines. While the state is offering a low-interest loan and grant to fund the improvements, some city commissioners are concerned that the resulting higher water bills could be too much of a burden for residents already struggling with tight budgets.

Why it matters

This decision highlights the tradeoffs cities often face between investing in critical infrastructure upgrades to ensure safe, reliable water service and the affordability impacts on residents. Manton's situation reflects the broader challenge many municipalities grapple with as they balance public health needs with economic realities.

The details

About a third of Manton's water service lines may contain lead, which poses serious health risks. The proposed $5.9 million project would address this issue by replacing the lead lines. However, the cost of the upgrades is expected to double residents' water bills, straining many family budgets. City Commissioner Nichole Johnson called it a "double-edged sword" - the city needs the fixes, but the higher costs could significantly impact residents.

  • The Manton City Commission plans to vote on the loan and grant at their next meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Nichole Johnson

A Manton City Commissioner who is concerned about the affordability impacts of the proposed $5.9 million water project on residents.

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What they’re saying

“It affects me as well. And I want to have clean water. I want everything to go smoothly. I don't want to have any major hiccups that could potentially cost the city thousands and thousands of dollars down the road that could have been avoided had to be taken this loan. However, I think that we don't have enough information to take the loan.”

— Nichole Johnson, Manton City Commissioner (upnorthlive.com)

What’s next

The Manton City Commission will vote on whether to accept the state's loan and grant offer to fund the $5.9 million water infrastructure project at their next meeting on February 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Manton's water infrastructure dilemma illustrates the difficult tradeoffs cities must navigate when trying to balance public health needs, such as replacing lead pipes, with the economic realities and affordability concerns of residents. This decision will have lasting impacts on the community, underscoring the importance of careful planning and community engagement around critical municipal investments.