Lessons Learned from a Water Leak Pilot Program: Recommendations for Improving Local and State Agency Collaborations with Community Groups and Residents
The Graham Sustainability Institute at the University of Michigan and Safe Water Engineering, LLC recently conducted a program evaluation of a water leak repair pilot program initiated by the State of Michigan to repair leaks in individual homes in Highland Park and Benton Harbor, Michigan.
The intended goals of the pilot program were to increase community education about water leaks, conduct household water audits, and provide funding for supply-side household plumbing repairs to lower water bills and improve public health protection. The pilot established a structure for channeling state funding to community groups and local partners to achieve repairs and results in individual homes. This type of one-on-one engagement at the household level is not only important for repairing leaks, it also plays an important role in lead service line replacement and addressing water affordability challenges.
The lessons gleaned from this pilot program evaluation can serve as best practices for planning and engaging with community groups and residents when water utilities work in individual homes. Our findings have been compiled in a briefing sheet titled "Recommendations for Improving Local and State Agency Collaborations with Community Groups and Residents."
One key recommendation of the program evaluation is the importance of establishing clear communication channels and processes between agencies, program managers, and community members. This includes ensuring a mechanism for regular updates and revising processes based on feedback in real time, ensuring that community members’ experiences are respected and heard.
Overall, these recommendations provide valuable planning concepts for government agencies and water utilities working to address community needs in their homes. By following these recommended best practices, agencies can ensure programs are responsive to community members, achieving better outcomes and more equitable solutions for all.
To learn more about the project and recommendations for improving collaborative efforts between local and state agencies and community groups, read the full report at the Graham Sustainability Institute’s website.