There's a new development in the city of Detroit's push to cutoff water service to thousands of customers who have delinquent bills.
WDIV's Hank Winchester reports that the Michigan Department of Human Services is getting involved and trying to provide financial assistance to those who have had their water cutoff. Some calls have come from people concerned about children's welfare.
A DHS spokesperson told Local 4, "We have recently received a large number of requests from people seeking financial assistance to help pay their water bills. We are working to process those requests as quickly as possible. We are also hearing from citizens concerned about children living in conditions without water and we are investigating these cases."
WDIV reports that one resident, Nicole Hill, has had her water cutoff as she contests a $5,700 balance on her water bill.
Winchester reports that she's been getting donated bottled water, but is so concerned about DHS finding out her children have no water that they are staying with a family member.
WDIV reports that state law says child neglect can include not providing water for children. But the water can be provided in bottles or by obtaining it from the home of a relative.
WDIV reported that the water department is willing to work with customers who are willing to make partial payments to keep the water flowing. -- Allan Lengel
