Darren A. Nichols / The Detroit News

Detroit —Detroit City Council members on Tuesday narrowly approved water rates that will jump an average of 9 percent for millions of users.
The average water increase would be 8.9 percent in the suburbs and 9.3 percent in Detroit. The council passed the measure by a 4-3 vote.

"It's something we had to do," Councilman Andre Spivey said. "I know we are going through tough economic times. [[But) itcosts money to run the utility. That's a part of making a tough decision, even if it means people are hurt in the process."

President Charles Pugh, President Pro Tem Gary Brown and James Tate joined Spivey in supporting the increases, while members Kenneth Cockrel Jr., Brenda Jones and JoAnn Watson opposed them.

Saunteel Jenkins and Kwame Kenyatta were absent.

"Passage ensures the system will remain competitive while providing all users the highest level of customer service," spokesman Dan Lijana said.