Detroit officials to testify in water dispute

DETROIT (AP) — A judge is hearing more testimony in a dispute over Detroit's policy to cut off water to residents who can't afford the service.

Judge Steven Rhodes is overseeing the city's bankruptcy case. The city believes he doesn't have authority to intervene in the water controversy, but Rhodes began a two-day hearing Monday.

It will resume Tuesday with testimony from water department officials.

Critics of the shutoffs say public health and children's welfare are at risk in homes without water. Detroit is urging people with overdue bills to put down 10 percent and agree to a payment plan. Opponents say that's not good enough.

They're asking the judge to suspend water shutoffs and order Detroit to restore service to anyone whose tap has been dry since April.