By: Brian Wells | Roseville-Eastpointe Eastsider | Published October 16, 2024
EASTPOINTE — A program aimed at reducing stormwater in sewer systems is coming to Eastpointe.
In August, Macomb County Public Works provided 200 rain barrels to the city of Roseville. The barrels collect rainwater during storms, preventing it from ending up in the sewers and eventually being discharged into Lake St. Clair.
“Everything that we are all doing does impact the lake,” Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller said. “We’re all sort of in it together.”
Miller presented the program to the Eastpointe City Council at its Oct. 1 meeting.
Through the Southeast Macomb County Wastewater Disposal System fund, which is paid into by Eastpointe, Roseville and St. Clair Shores, the city was given 200 rain barrels. Each barrel will hold 58 gallons each, which Miller said she believes comes to approximately 5,000 gallons per year.
The barrels were originally used for hauling olives but have been repurposed to collect rainwater, which, Miller said, also helps keep the barrels from ending up in a landfill.
The barrels would normally cost $180, said Norb Franz, communications manager for Macomb County Public Works. But under the pilot project, the cost will be funded entirely by the Southeast Macomb County Wastewater Disposal System, he said.
Each resident who receives a barrel will also receive a stand made of recycled wood, a spigot and everything needed to connect it to their home’s downspout.
“It’s really easy to set up,” Miller said.
Macomb County Commissioner Sarah Lucido, who also spoke about the program at the meeting, said it will help residents save money.
“So, one thing we all know here in Eastpointe is that we have high water rates, and this will give residents the opportunity to collect rainwater to water their grass, water their gardens, instead of turning the faucet on, which ultimately is going to save residents a little bit of money if they do that,” she said.
Eastpointe City Councilman Harvey Curley was the only one to speak on the topic at the meeting.
“This whole project, to me, is a classic example of what can be done when people cooperate with one another,” he said. “Things get done and that’s great.”
Roseville City Manager Ryan Monroe said in an email that the city has received nothing but positive feedback.
“Honestly, we have been amazed at how popular this program has been,” he said. “It is a good program for our residents and beneficial to our storm water system.”
At press time, Eastpointe had not received the barrels to begin distributing them. However, Franz said Eastpointe will receive the barrels by Oct. 25.
The program could continue to grow in Macomb County.
“There is another community where a civic-minded citizen has offered to contribute to this program,” Franz said.
Details will be announced soon, he said.
Eastpointe residents interested in obtaining a rain barrel can apply at cityofeastpointe.net/community/rain_barrel_pilot_program.php.