The folks in Flint, Michigan, just can’t seem to get a break.
Already using filters on their faucets to make their toxic water clean, they’ll now have to boil it, too.
Flint is under a boil-water advisory after a Tuesday water main break. Water pressure fell, and that may have allowed bacterial contaminants to enter the system.
“Bacteria are generally not harmful and are common throughout our environment,” a statement from the city said.
The advisory is being called a precaution and will be lifted once water sampling shows the water is safe to drink.
More money
The latest setback came as the mayor said she needs $55 million to remove lead pipes in the city. Karen Weaver is asking Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder to partner with her to get the funds.
“In order for Flint residents to once again have confidence and trust in the water coming from their faucets, all lead pipes in the city of Flint need to be replaced,” she said.
A spokesman for the governor said the office was reviewing Weaver’s proposal.
“Gov. Snyder is including money in his budget request on Wednesday to address Flint water infrastructure,” said Dave Murray. “That figure could be a starting point, but we won’t know for sure until we are able to study the pipes that are in place now and know better what needs to be replaced and how quickly.”
Deputy press secretary Anna Heaton said the governor has asked the Legislature for an additional $195 million for the crisis. It’s part of the budget plan for the 2016-2017 fiscal year presented to the Legislature on Wednesday.
The $195 million consists of $37 million for water and water infrastructure, $15 million for food and nutrition, $63 million for health and well-being, $30 million for water bill credits and a $50 million reserve fund, Snyder said.
Officials say $37 million already has been approved.
Rusting away
The people and water pipes of the city weren’t the only casualties of the corrosive Flint River water.
Damage is showing up in the city’s fire equipment.
One pump has already been replaced because of severe rust. An invoice shows $65,000 in needed repairs.
The fleet’s newest fire truck is also showing signs of premature damage and wear.
“We actually called the manufacturers of three of our fire trucks, and they gave us some ideas of how to combat that a little bit, but what’s done is done and we’re hoping it doesn’t get to a point where we have to replace pumps,” Fire Chief David Cox Jr. told CNN affiliate WJRT.
Otherwise, things will really get expensive.
“That’s a brand-new $462,000 pump that we’re talking about,” said Cox.
And one more thing to worry about.
The Flint Fire Department is worried the water could be corroding the fire suppression systems around the city too, the affiliate reported. Sprinkler installation companies are being told to inspect systems installed in homes and businesses.
