Flint Township View

Local leaders react to news of charges against ex-Gov. Snyder


FLINT — Former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder and several ex-state officials have been placed on notice they will be charged in the Flint Water Crisis following a new investigation.

Snyder, his health director and other ex-officials will be charged in the water scandal which involved lead contamination in the city’s water supply and was blamed for a deadly outbreak of Legionnaire’s Disease, according to reports.

The nature of the charges against Snyder, former health department director Nick Lyon and others from his administration, including Rich Baird, a friend who was the governor’s key troubleshooter while in office, have not been disclosed.

Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, issued the following statement Monday.

“What happened to the people of Flint is a terrible tragedy. Justice for Flint families comes in many forms, including holding state officials accountable for what they did to Flint,” said Kildee. “While I never prejudge the outcome of any criminal charges, I support the Flint water crisis investigation following the facts, wherever they may lead. No one is above the law.

“Justice for Flint also comes by making sure families have access to critical resources, like the Flint Registry and other health care, educational and nutritional services, that can help mitigate the effects of lead exposure. Flint families deserve our continued support and we owe it to other communities to learn the lessons of the water crisis, so it never happens elsewhere.”

Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich (D-Flint) also issued a statement Monday in response to reports Snyder and others will be charged for their roles in the Flint water crisis.

“I am working to get more information and it is my understanding that the Flint water investigation is ongoing. While we do not yet know the full extent of the charges expected to be made, I have said from the beginning that justice requires even the most powerful be held accountable for what happened to the families of my city,” said Ananich. “No person, no politician, is above the law. I have every expectation that our attorney general and her team is pursuing every legal avenue to deliver justice for Flint.” — G.G.