Detroit Launches EasyPay Plan for Water Bills

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) has launched the EasyPay plan to assist residents and organizations in managing overdue water bills. This new program allows customers to enroll with a $10 down payment and spread their outstanding balances over 36 months, providing a more accessible option compared to the previous 10/30/50 Plan. The EasyPay plan is open to all, including businesses and nonprofits, and aims to prevent water shutoffs while addressing a collection rate that has fallen by 12% since 2020. DWSD officials have emphasized the necessity of collecting overdue payments to maintain city assets, as they also announced the resumption of shutoffs for delinquent accounts. Community feedback has influenced the plan's design, with a focus on flexibility and low initial costs. However, some residents express concern over the potential impact of resumed shutoffs on families, calling for more equitable solutions.