Last week we posted a survey regarding water quality in the Village of Decatur. The link is as follows: https://arcg.is/14fTaS. The more feedback we get from the community the better the information we will have to present to our Village Council.
So, if you have not done so already, please take a few minutes to complete the survey. If you have already completed it, please share this post or the link with friends, neighbors, and community members to help us get more feedback. Again, the more responses we receive the better. All data from the survey will be presented to the Council during the meeting for their review. Thank you for your help!

There are 2 proposals being considered regarding the future of the Village's water system with respect to funding necessary maintenance and potential improvements. One option would fund necessary maintenance projects on the existing infrastructure. The other proposal would include those same items but also the construction of an iron filtration plant. That could have a very positive impact on reducing mineral content in the water and improving overall water quality. But, the construction of a plant and it's continued operation would carry significant costs that must be considered by all.

To that end, a Public Hearing will be held at the August Regular Meeting to present the options, review the funding sources available, and the associated water rate increases necessary to fund them. A notice regarding the public hearing and information on the options being explored will be published in next week's paper and posted to the Village's website and here on Facebook. The plan would also be to incorporate a digital submission option, to allow anyone who might not be able to attend to still have their voices heard on this very important matter.

Due to the costs involved (the estimated cost of the filtration plant alone is $3 million +), the Village Council wishes to hear from as many residents as possible, whether in support or opposition, before making a decision that would impact water rates over the proceeding 20+ years. These options were discussed earlier this year following the completion of the Water Rate Study. However, again, as this will have a large impact on the community at-large, additional public feedback was desired before proceeding to ensure the community had an opportunity to be fully involved in this process. The current COVID-19 situation, admittedly, caused some delays.

But, the village encourages everyone to either attend the upcoming August meeting or submit a comment in advance to help determine the course to take here. Again, along with the Public Hearing Notice, information on how to submit feedback prior to the meeting will also be included and posted by early next week. And, all submissions in advance will be presented to the Village Council for review. For reference, the following link (beginning on page 133) presents a summary of what was presented previously on this matter: https://towncloud.io/go/decatur-mi/agendas/50/pdf_packet/get_agenda_document_link

Please note, Governor Whitmer has issued a new executive order regarding new requirements for face mask use. This order takes effect on Monday. Failure to comply as instructed could result in a misdemeanor charge and fine of up to $500.00. Of note, businesses will need to review the order and implement protocols as required. And, all residents will need to ensure they are taking the necessary steps as outlined in the order as well. Please review the attached story for more info on the executive order and a link to the order itself.

#StaySafe