Benton Harbor Seeking Additional Funds To Replace Water Lines

bhcityhall2-40
bhcityhall2-40

$3.7 million in water bonds are being sought by the Benton Harbor City Commission. During a meeting this past week, they were told the money through the state Drinking Water State Revolving Fund won’t have to be paid back because it comes from federal Booker funds. Mayor Pro Tem Duane Seats said this will help the city replace more lead service lines.

“You have to make a move,” Seats said. “This is the city of Benton Harbor’s commission saying we’re willing to do whatever it takes to get it done.”

The state has an 18 month goal to replace all of the lead lines in Benton Harbor. Mayor Marcus Muhammad said these funds will inch the city closer to the goal.

“This $3.7 million is going to replace over 600 lead lines in the city,” Muhammad said. “The $5.6 million from the EPA is 888 lines. The 600 plus from this money would take our lead service removal to 87%.”

That’s in addition to state money that’s been pledged. The dollars were referred to as Booker funds because they come out of legislation from Senator Corey Booker to help communities with water infrastructure projects.