RTAB Approves Resolution for the Use of $2 Million in Fund Balance to Reconnect to Detroit Water

The City of Flint’s Receivership Transition Advisory Board has today approved a resolution that directs $2 Million in fund balance from the Water and Sewer funds be used to fund Flint’s portion of the reconnection to Detroit as the City’s water source. The Board voted unanimously to approve the measure which will compliment commitments by Governor Snyder in the amount of $6 million and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation in the amount of $4 million, respectively, for a total reconnection cost of $12 million. Flint City Council voted unanimously to approve the plan to reconnect to Detroit water during their October 12 meeting, putting it before the RTAB.

“Flint is one step closer to switching back to Detroit water with the board’s approval,” said Mayor Dayne Walling. “Now we need approval from the state treasurer and support from the state legislature and I urge them to act immediately.” Approval from the legislature is required to finalize the negotiations with the Great Lakes Water Authority, formerly Detroit Water and Sewerage (DWSD). Once the contract between the Authority, Genesee County and the City are complete, Flint can once again begin receiving treated Lake Huron water from Detroit.