Mayor Neeley pledges to continue water shutoff moratorium, free household water reconnections

FLINT, Michigan—In light of the state Supreme Court’s order that nullifies Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders, Mayor Sheldon Neeley today pledged to continue ensuring residents of the City of Flint have access to water.

“We remain in the middle of a pandemic and washing your hands is an important tool to keeping families safe and slowing the spread of this deadly virus,” Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “No one’s water has been cut off for lack of payment since I took office, and we will continue to make decisions that are in the best interest of our residents.”

Mayor Neeley also said his order to connect water service to all occupied residents in the City of Flint will remain in effect. Mayor Neeley ordered water service reconnection on March 12, 2020, based on the advice of Dr. Lawrence Reynolds, who serves as health advisor to Mayor Neeley. This action came more than one week before the first cases of COVID-19 were reported in Genesee County and more than two weeks before Gov. Whitmer ordered cities to take such action.

Residents who need water service reconnection can call Customer Service at (810) 755-7015 or the city’s Public Health Navigators at (810) 410-2020 for assistance.

Mayor Neeley also reminded residents that they remain responsible for paying their monthly water bills. Paying your bill on time is the best way to avoid penalties and fees that can quickly make water bills an overwhelming burden, Neeley said.

Neeley also warned commercial water users that they will be targeted first for potential shut off when the moratorium is lifted. “We have some entities that are chronic abusers of our water system. Our residents will not subsidize commercial water accounts. Consider this fair warning, especially to those commercial property owners who owe thousands of dollars: You need to pay off your balance or get a payment plan immediately.”

Customers can pay on line at the CityofFlint.com or by phone by calling (810) 766-7015 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays. Payment using a check or money order can be mailed in or submitted through the drop box in front of City Hall.

Customer service is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday to serve residents in person.