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DETROIT - In the wake of summer power outages, the city of Detroit is considering privatizing its public lighting department. Traditionally a taboo subject in heavily unionized Detroit, privatization is fast becoming a more palatable option for many Motor City residents. Major outages in June prompted city council members to express openness to the idea of letting private companies manage or take over lighting service. The department, whose annual budget is $67.7 million, is running a $10-million deficit and receiving heavy complaints for poor service from major clients like Wayne State University. Moves to privatize utilities in other cities have met with great success and are being considered nationwide.
