The city of Flint, Michigan revealed that they have entered a 30-year contract with the Great Lakes Water Authority on Wednesday, Nov. 29 while still dealing with the hazardous ramifications from the water crisis that has lasted for almost four years.

In this new deal, Flint wins. According to the terms of the contract, Flint will not have to pay the legal fees of the water authority in the event of a lawsuit, the city will be represented on the board, a grant of $750,000 will be given to help with bill relief and the General Motors engine plant will resume using Flint's water supply, per MLive.

"Not only is there an economic benefit by having a lower wholesale charge, but the offset credit (via payment of the city's $7 million Karengnondi Water Authority debt), as noted," GLWA CEO Sue F. McCormick said, adding that GLWA looks forward to supplying Flint with water of "unquestionable quality" for years to come.

Corrosive water pipes have wrecked the small Michigan city for several years now leading to an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease, killing 12 people and leaving others with health issues because of the tainted drinking water. Residents were exposed to a high level of lead when the city's water supply was changed over to the Flint River.

The environmental crisis has been amplified after 15 government officials have been criminally charged for their actions leading to the incident, reports MLive. Only three of the 15 have taken plea deals. More than 9,000 residents represented by 23 law firms are consolidated into 10 class actions and more than 50 personal injury lawsuits into one case filed in federal court for those harmed by the contaminated water.

While the contract and the 100 million Gov. Rick Snyder has earmarked to help replace pipes in Flint is good news, residents are still using bottled water for daily use.

Great lakes Water Authority

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