Tuesday’s elections in Flint could have long-term ramifications for the city’s water.
The winner of the Mayoral race could make a unilateral decision on whether or not the city will accept a 30-year water contract with the Great Lakes Water Authority.
A federal judge last week postponed a decision on the state’s request to give Mayor Karen Weaver the power to approve a 30-year water contract without the city council’s approval.
The Flint city council has repeatedly rejected moves by the state to get them to approve a 30-year contract with the Great Lakes Water Authority, saying they first want an independent analysis to determine the most affordable option for the city.
Scott Kincaid is a mayoral candidate and member of the city council. He said if he wins the race he will not sign the thirty-year contract without an independent analysis.
“It’s now just in the hands of the voters to make a decision on whether they want a thirty-year contract with Detroit without an independent analysis, or do they want to elect a mayor who will just sign off on the thirty-year contract. That’s how important this election is.”
Kincaid said the question of water source is important.
“I think this election is the most important election not just for the residents that currently live here right now but for our kids and our grandkids for the future. A thirty-year source of water is extremely important and right now the city of Flint has one of the highest water rates in the country and we are one of the poorest communities in the country.”
Federal Judge David Lawson scheduled a hearing for the state’s motion on November 13th.
Mayor Karen Weaver’s office did not immediately respond to our request for comment.