CNN reports that the City of Flint has filed a letter of intent to sue the state of Michigan.
On Friday, Stacy Erwin Oakes, the city’s new chief legal officer filed a notice of intent to take legal action for damage to the municipal water system.
7 Facts on Flint’s Water Crisis
Beginning in 2014, unhealthy drinking water was funneled through the city of Flint, disrupting the health and livelihood of thousands of people. Children were exposed to lead after the Michigan Governor Rick Snyder approved a water source switch in order to cut costs.
Heavy criticism has come from the letter of intent filing with both the state lawmakers and the governor’s office. Some say suing the state will only hinder any efforts to assist in the city’s rehabilitation process.
Michigan Governor Testifies at Congressional Hearing for Flint Water Crisis
Flint Mayor Karen Weaver released a statement regarding the intent to sue filing, saying that it was more of a legal maneuver than an actual threat.
“I have no intention at this point of having the City of Flint sue the state,” Weaver said. “I need to preserve the city’s right to pursue legal remedy if it’s determined a lawsuit is necessary in the future.”
Since January, more than 50 lawsuits have been filed against the city, most of which are from residents who want to hold the city accountable for actions that led to irreversible damage as a result of lead poisoning.