Since 2014 Flint, Michigan has been in a state of emergency due to the contaminated water system. The town switched their water supply from Lake Huron to the Flint River in April of that year which led to massive measures of lead poisoning. Lead poison can stunt brain growth in children and lead to learning disabilities. Since the crisis began there has been no outside help or improvements whatsoever, until now.
The amount of lead in Flint, Michigans water supply has decraesed below the federal limit for the first time in two years. This develpoment occurred earlier this week and has surprised the town and the rest of the country. Although this is an improvement, many of the townspeople don’t see this as a huge change. The water still contains dangerous levels of lead and other toxin and is still not drinkable. After two years, is this all that the country can do for Flint?
The answer is no. Mayor Karen Weaver has stated that the city intends to replace water meters in every home with 100 million dollars in federal funds, “It is anticipated that the city in 2016-17 will appropriate and spend $7.5 million for the replacement of aging water meters in all residential, commercial and industrial areas of the city in 2016-17.” With this information the town has been given hope which is more than they have received within the last two years. With government officials and politicians turing the other way and refusing to acknowledge the state of Flint Michigan’s water, the town is now receiving the attention and care they rightfully deserve.