Strategic Water Storage: A Smart Solution to Cut Westland’s Utility Costs

From Woman’s Week

A new approach to managing municipal water costs has emerged in Westland, Michigan, where city council candidate Josh Powell is advocating for infrastructure investments that could significantly reduce residents’ water bills. The proposal centers on constructing a water tower and storage facility that would allow the city to purchase water during off-peak hours when rates are lower.

The concept involves buying water from the Great Lakes Water Authority at night when demand and prices drop, then storing it for distribution during peak daytime hours. This strategy has already proven successful in neighboring communities, providing both cost savings and increased local control over water resources.

Powell’s campaign platform extends beyond water management to include comprehensive property tax reform. The candidate proposes a gradual, multi-year reduction in property taxes designed to create predictability for homeowners and businesses. This long-term approach aims to restore confidence among investors and families considering Westland as a place to establish roots.

Central to the revitalization strategy is the Westland Mall, which the candidate identifies as the heart of the city. The proposal includes offering property tax abatements to mall ownership in exchange for developing and operating a community center within the shopping complex. This initiative would serve dual purposes: creating a gathering space for residents while driving foot traffic back to the mall and surrounding shop and dine district.

The common-sense platform reflects growing concerns among Westland residents about rising utility costs and property taxes. By implementing water storage infrastructure similar to what surrounding cities have successfully deployed, the municipality could gain greater autonomy over its water supply while maintaining an emergency freshwater reserve.

The property tax reduction plan emphasizes gradual implementation rather than sudden cuts, allowing the city to maintain essential services while creating a more attractive environment for business investment and residential development. This measured approach contrasts with more aggressive tax-cutting proposals that often result in service reductions.

Revitalizing the Westland Mall represents perhaps the most visible component of the candidate’s vision. By transforming portions of the retail space into a community hub, the plan seeks to address both the decline in traditional retail shopping and the need for public gathering spaces. The proposed tax incentives would make such a transformation financially viable for property owners while benefiting the broader community.

These initiatives reflect a broader trend in municipal governance where cities seek creative solutions to infrastructure challenges and economic development. The water storage proposal, in particular, demonstrates how strategic investments can yield long-term savings while improving service reliability.

For more information about Josh Powell’s campaign for Westland City Council and his proposals for water management, tax reform, and mall revitalization, interested residents can learn more about the specific implementation strategies and timeline for these initiatives.