Waterford Today

Matt Maddock, the state representative for Michigan's District 51, has expressed concerns regarding a costly water heater installation in a government building. He suggests that this reflects broader waste associated with Democratic environmental initiatives.

"MICHIGAN NEWS Taxpayers are paying $250,000 for a new water heater in the House Office Building that will never get hot water to these newly installed GreenNewScam faucets," said Maddock, State Representative from Michigan. "Everything the democrats do is a scam."

In 2025, the Michigan Legislature allocated $6.5 million for infrastructure upgrades to the Cora Anderson House Office Building, which serves as the primary workspace for state representatives. According to the Michigan House Fiscal Agency, this funding was included in the FY 2024-25 General Omnibus Budget to modernize the facility and address long-term maintenance needs. Lawmakers emphasized the necessity of updated infrastructure to improve energy efficiency and workplace conditions.

Michigan has invested significantly in energy-efficient building improvements, including a $210 million allocation for the Michigan Home Energy Rebates (MiHER) program. As reported by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, this initiative supports electrification and retrofitting projects aimed at reducing energy use in residential buildings. It also reflects a broader trend toward sustainable infrastructure in state facilities.

Energy-efficient plumbing fixtures offer clear cost benefits compared to traditional models, particularly in reduced water and energy usage. According to the RAND Corporation, such upgrades provide long-term savings on utility bills and have a favorable return on investment, especially when installed in high-traffic public or commercial buildings. These findings support their adoption in government facility upgrades.

Maddock, a Republican representing Michigan’s 51st House District since 2019 and currently serving as Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, has generally prioritized fiscal oversight and government accountability over environmental policy. According to the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, he has a 22% pro-environment voting score and has spoken against what he views as excessive public spending on infrastructure projects.