Words Are Inadequate in Response to Patrick Lyoya’s Death
Freshwater Future is appalled by the attack on Patrick Lyoya and we send our condolences to his family and the community. The killing of Patrick Lyoya, an unarmed African American man, as a result of an inquiry over an expired license tab demonstrates the blatant disregard for Black lives by the police, the state, and our country. We stand in solidarity with all communities of color as members of these communities are disproportionately the victims of police brutality due to a history of systemic racism in this country. As always, actions not words are needed if we are to stop these killings. Immediate actions must follow from the City of Grand Rapids, the State of Michigan, and the country to dismantle the inherent racism in our government and other institutions. Although the lack of progress to create a just and equitable society is evident and frustrating, Freshwater Future will continue our work to listen, learn, and change to make our work more just and equitable.
What You Can Do on Earth Day to Help Protect Our Planet
Asphalt Facility in Detroit Appeals Decision After Permit Denial
An asphalt mixing facility proposal in Detroit was denied a permit from the Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department (BSEED) in November 2021, due to the high-impact the industrial facility would have on nearby residential communities. The company appealed the decision to the Board of Zoning Appeals and the matter will be taken up at their May meeting. Becki Kenderes with the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation shared, “Several northwest Detroit neighborhoods have come together to urge the Board of Zoning Appeals to uphold BSEED’s decision and keep our neighborhoods free of this asphalt mixing facility.” You can support their effort to not overturn the permit denial by signing this petition.
Your Help Needed to Take Advantage of a Historic Opportunity to Upgrade Public Water Systems
Are your water and sewer bills increasing? Do you know if your community has lead water lines? After decades of neglect, drinking and wastewater systems across the country are in need of upgrades to ensure water is safe to drink and to reduce pollution. Over the next five-years, additional funding will be available through the State Revolving Fund program, and a significant percentage is targeted for disadvantaged communities. You can help your community get in line for these funds. This blog post provides some simple steps to take to address the water in your community.
Save the Date and Register for All About Water Virtual Event: What is SRF (State Revolving Fund) and How Can These Funds Help Your Community and Business?
Upgrading drinking water systems and removing lead pipes are costly expenditures for cities and municipalities. Over the next five-years additional funding will be available through the State Revolving Fund program, and a significant percentage is targeted for disadvantaged communities. Join us on June 22 to learn more about efforts to ensure funds are distributed equitably, how to urge your community to get these funds, and tips for minority contractors to get government contracts related to these projects.
Freshwater Voices Newsletter – Latest Issue Now Available Online
The most recent issue of our Freshwater Voices Newsletter is now available online. Click HERE to access a full pdf version of Voices highlighting the Freshwater Hero Award recipients who are making an impact around the Great Lakes Region. If you would like a print version of the newsletter mailed to you, just send a request to leslie@freshwaterfuture.org.
