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Flint mayor welcomes National Guard help

Posted at 1:00 PM, Jan 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-13 13:00:12-05

FLINT, Mich. — Flint’s mayor says she appreciates Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder’s order to activate the National Guard to help with the city’s water crisis, but that Flint will need more assistance.

Mayor Karen Weaver said in a statement Wednesday she’s glad the state is putting in resources.

Lt. Col. William Humes said about a half-dozen National Guard representatives arrived Wednesday, ahead of a larger contingent that will help distribute bottled water, filters and other supplies to residents.

Flint’s tap water became contaminated with too much lead after the city switched its water supply in 2014 to save money while under state financial management.

Weaver said the city also needs federal assistance “to cope with this man-made water disaster.” The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved Snyder’s request to coordinate a recovery plan.