DETROIT — Bill Johnson, Detroit Water and Sewerage Department’s public affairs’ officer, told citizens at a Rosedale Park community meeting July 17 that the department does not hold the belief that water is a human right.
When asked if the DWSD was going to respond the United Nations' reprimand of the department and declaration that water is a human right, Johnson said the department would not be issuing a statement in response the the U.N.’s “assertion.”
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Bill Johnson speaks at a DWSD press conference July 17, 2014[/caption]
“This is the same organization trying to achieve world peace, it ain’t going to happen.”
Johnson added that those who are protesting the water shutoffs have not themselves had their water service discontinued.
“None of those protesting have had their water shut off,” Johnson said. “Not one person who has demonstrated legitimate affordability problems have been denied by DWSD.” Johnson said those who have affordability problems should contact the department to let them know.
He added that DWSD will hold a water affordability fair Aug. 2.