Oakland County Urged to Halt Sewage Dumping Into Macomb County
An influential state lawmaker has raised a strong plea to Michigan authorities, asking them to intervene in the controversial issue of Oakland County’s dumping of untreated and semi-treated sewage into the Red Run Drain. The runoff ends up in Macomb County, causing strong concerns about pollution, water safety, and ecological balance.
The Plea to State Officials
The state representative has appealed to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to withhold approval of Oakland County’s Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO) permit. The lawmaker argues that the permit should only be approved when the county commits to halting the release of untreated and partially treated wastewater into the Red Run Drain. This drainage system flows into the Clinton River and eventually into Lake St. Clair.
Macomb’s Grievances
In the past, Macomb County officials, including the Public Works Commissioner and county Commission Chair, have voiced their concerns over this issue. They are pushing for Oakland County to either eradicate or significantly decrease its CSOs. Although these discharges are technically allowed under a permit, Oakland has reportedly gone over the limit several times.
The Macomb lawmaker and his colleagues are currently crafting legislation to impose penalties on Oakland for its CSOs. However, they would prefer if the department could handle this without waiting for legislative action.
Oakland’s Reaction
Responding to these claims, the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner defended their actions, stating that separating water and sewer systems is neither economically nor scientifically feasible. The commissioner went on to note that operating under an expired permit is common while awaiting its renewal.
The Impact of the CSOs
According to Macomb officials, these frequent dumpings pollute the Red Run, Clinton River, and Lake St. Clair, which affects those living along these waterways and contributes to frequent beach closings. There are also concerns about the accumulation of silt and other debris along the lakeshore, as well as increased incidents of flooding.
Looking Towards a Solution
Macomb County authorities are optimistic and committed to finding a solution to this pressing issue. Determined to protect their waterways, they have significantly reduced their own CSOs and are expected to nearly eliminate them by next year, thanks to several upcoming projects valued at nearly $100 million.
