THE SOCIAL COSTS OF THE FLINT WATER CRISIS: WHAT CAN BE LEARNED FOR FUTURE LEADERS

Abstract

This paper looks at the water crisis that occurred in Flint, MI Although the crisis has occurred nearly a decade ago, it has maintained surrounding discussion due to the catastrophic effects it has had, particularly for the children exposed to the drinking water. The primary focus of the paper is to determine whether the decisions made by Flint officials and Michigan officials was justified ex ante. This focus can inform present and future policy makers of the effects similar decisions can have on their constituents, which will lead to improved policy. To support this focus, this paper introduces the situation surrounding the crisis. The paper then transitions to a timeline of what had happened in Flint and how the government had responded. Then, a cost analysis is developed and applied to the crisis to determine whether the situation could have been averted ex ante. Finally, policy recommendations are set out with the consideration that policymakers want to avert similar crises from occurring, especially in cities that may struggle financially like Flint.