Inside the George W. Kuhn (GWK) Retention Treatment Basin screening room, Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash and Oakland County Board Chairman David T. Woodward confronted Macomb County’s water quality claims head-on, making it clear that Oakland County is not to blame for Macomb County’s problems.

Opening his statement, Commissioner Nash emphasized the GWK is a state-of-the-art facility operating under stringent environmental standards, like the 23 other facilities in Southeast Michigan including three in Macomb County.

For decades, Macomb County has pointed a finger at its neighbor, blaming the GWK for their own water quality issues. A political tactic to shift attention away from its own struggling infrastructure.

Claims Addressed by Commissioner Nash:

• Untreated Discharge: Macomb County alleges the GWK discharges partially treated or raw sewage into the Red Run Drain. “All water that leaves this facility is screened, filtered, and disinfected with bleach,” Commissioner Nash stated. It accounts for less than 1% of Lake St. Clair’s flow. He further went on to explain that several studies from federal, state and regional agencies indicate the “muck” and beach closures are caused by run off, animal waste, fertilizers and invasive species, not the GWK.
• Operating Under an Expired Permit: Addressing the claim the GWK is operating under an expired permit, Commissioner Nash clarified that all required documentation was submitted to EGLE well in advance of the expiration date. Operations continue under standard procedure while undergoing the renewal process. This is routine.
• Demand to Separate Stormwater and Wastewater System: “Separating our systems would cost our residents billions of dollars, cause years of infrastructure disruption, and offer no tangible benefits to water quality in Lake St. Clair or anywhere in Macomb County,” Commissioner Nash explained.

“We are committed to transparency, environmental stewardship, and public health,” Nash concluded. “We will continue to operate our systems safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with legal and environmental standards.”

The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s office is dedicated to protecting public health and safety, preserving natural resources and a healthy environment, maintaining reliable, high-quality service, ensuring the value of investment and contributing to economic prosperity. To learn more about the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash’s Office and his work, follow along with them on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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