Ferndale · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ferndale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Lead service line replacement program funding
Consent items included water-related contracts: lead-related tank inspections, a water infiltration study at The DOT, and a water system emergency response plan update. Council also upheld denials of seven FOIA requests.
Water, sewer and sanitation rate study
The city spent about $1.08 million on a sewer camera truck and a Vactor sewer cleaner from the water and sewer fund. The equipment supports planned inspections, emergency repairs and lead service line verification, and council floated renting spare capacity to neighboring cities.
Water billing estimated reads
A staff training mistake caused most Cycle 1 water bills to be estimated in January. Most estimates were based on actual prior reads and the city can adjust bills manually; residents who suspect a skewed bill should contact water billing.
Eight Mile Road Water Main Replacement
The city is replacing 80- to 100-year-old water mains on Jarvis and Woodward Heights, including a section rated worst-consequence in a 2018 study. Planned replacement is cheaper and less disruptive than emergency main breaks, which often happen in winter.
2026 CIPP Sewer Rehabilitation
Council awarded a $356,055 contract to D.V.M. Utilities to rehabilitate sewer lines using cured-in-place pipe lining — fixing aging infrastructure without digging up streets.
Great Lakes Water Authority Water Contract Amendment No. 6
Council approved an amendment to the city's wholesale water contract with the Great Lakes Water Authority, the regional supplier for Ferndale's drinking water.
GLWA rate increases
GLWA is proposing 6.83% water and 5.98% sewer rate hikes for FY2027, which Ferndale must pass through to residents. The council adopted a formal opposition resolution and is encouraging residents to attend GLWA's public hearing and lobby regional representatives.