Leaders from across the Midwest gathered in Detroit in recent days to tackle a growing problem: the rising cost of water.

Advocates, policymakers and researchers from Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio met March 6 to discuss solutions as more households struggle to keep up with utility bills. Statewide estimates show Michigan households pay between about $33 and $174 a month for water, depending on usage and location, with many bills including sewer charges.

Monica Lewis-Patrick, cofounder, president and CEO of the water advocacy group We the People of Detroit, said when water rates reflect what families can realistically afford, utilities often see better results. She cited Philadelphia as an example.

“What we saw in Philadelphia: They were able to generate, in one year, $7 million into the coffers by creating a rate structure that people could afford,” Lewis-Patrick explained. “When you give people a rate they can afford, they will actually pay it.”

Statistics show rising water costs often hit low-income and historically underserved communities the hardest. Advocates said solutions could include income-based billing, stronger infrastructure investment and expanded assistance programs.

Michigan lawmakers are also exploring possible solutions.

Rep. Emily Dievendorf, D-Lansing, said her own experience struggling with water bills has helped shape the legislation she has introduced.

“It’s a case that I’ve had to try to plead when I was unable to pay my bill,” Dievendorf recounted. “If I were to pay off this debt or pay this parking ticket, then it means I do not eat. It means that I cannot care for the people in my household. It means that I cannot pay for my water.”

Dievendorf has introduced a package of bills to create a statewide water affordability program based on household income.