Flint continues to struggle with water issues

Last August, MT published a cover story that focused on the issues surrounding a harmful algae bloom in Lake Erie, and, in general, the problems numerous cities across Michigan have faced with the basic necessity of water. 

In particular, the city of Flint has continually dealt with concerns over discolored water, ever since Flint switched from using Detroit Water & Sewerage Department to the Flint River for drinking water. Those problems have persisted into the new year, according to a report from the Flint Journal. The city recently received a notice that it was in violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act, due to excessive levels of a trihalomethanen (TTHM), a by-product contaminant. City officials sent notices to residents regarding the violation, the Flint Journal reports. 

The notices say that drinking water with excessive amounts of trihalomethanes over many years could cause liver, kidney or central nervous system problems and an increased risk of cancer.

The notice from the city says Flint water is safe to drink but warns those with "a severely compromised immune system, (who) have an infant or are elderly" that they "may be at increased risk and should seek advice about drinking water from your health care provider."

This, it should be noted, is what Flint residents are receiving for a water and sewer bill that costs $140 per month on average.