Detroit, suburbs reach deal on water system

DETROIT (AP) -- The city and suburbs have reached a deal on how Detroit's Water and Sewerage Department will be managed. Mayor Dave Bing and representatives from Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties announced last Friday that a new seven-member board will oversee operations. The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press report that the mayor will have four appointees. One will be appointed by each county. Current county representatives are appointed by the mayor. Bing says the city will maintain ownership of the system. A federal court'as oversight would end within six months under the deal. Detroit has been criticized over how rates are set and how the massive system is managed. City officials have said increases are necessary for repairs and maintenance, but some in the suburbs have accused the city of overcharging them. Published: Tue, Feb 15, 2011