Midwest Leaders Gather to Address Rising Water Costs

Advocates, policymakers, and researchers discuss solutions to make water more affordable for low-income households.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Leaders from across the Midwest, including Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, and Ohio, recently met in Detroit to discuss solutions to the growing problem of rising water costs. Advocates, policymakers, and researchers explored ideas like income-based billing, stronger infrastructure investment, and expanded assistance programs to help low-income and historically underserved communities struggling with unaffordable water bills.

Why it matters

Access to affordable water is a critical issue, as rising costs often disproportionately impact low-income and marginalized communities. Finding solutions to make water more accessible and equitable is crucial for public health and economic stability.

The details

The meeting in Detroit brought together groups like the water advocacy organization We the People of Detroit, which cited Philadelphia as an example of how creating more affordable rate structures can actually increase utility revenue. Lawmakers in Michigan, including Rep. Emily Dievendorf, are also exploring legislation to establish a statewide water affordability program based on household income.

  • The Midwest leaders gathered in Detroit on March 6, 2026.

The players

Monica Lewis-Patrick

Cofounder, president and CEO of the water advocacy group We the People of Detroit.

Rep. Emily Dievendorf

A Michigan state representative who has introduced legislation to create a statewide water affordability program.

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What they’re saying

“What we saw in Philadelphia: They were able to generate, in one year, $7 million into the coffers by creating a rate structure that people could afford. When you give people a rate they can afford, they will actually pay it.”

— Monica Lewis-Patrick, Cofounder, president and CEO of We the People of Detroit (Public News Service)

“It's a case that I've had to try to plead when I was unable to pay my bill. If I were to pay off this debt or pay this parking ticket, then it means I do not eat. It means that I cannot care for the people in my household. It means that I cannot pay for my water.”

— Rep. Emily Dievendorf, Michigan State Representative (Public News Service)

What’s next

Michigan lawmakers are expected to continue debating Rep. Dievendorf's proposed water affordability legislation in the coming months.

The takeaway

This gathering of Midwest leaders highlights the growing urgency to address the rising costs of water, which disproportionately burden low-income households. By exploring solutions like income-based billing and expanded assistance programs, policymakers aim to make this essential resource more accessible and equitable for all.