Flint Hires International Urban Water Experts of Veolia North America to Assess City’s Water Issues
Flint, Michigan – February 10, 2015 – The City of Flint has retained a team of urban water experts from Veolia North America to conduct an analysis of the city’s water system. Veolia, which is the world’s largest water services and technology company, will assess how Flint’s water is tested and distributed, including reviewing water treatment processes and operations, laboratory testing and analysis, and engineering reports that detail the city’s treatment and distribution systems.
“We understand the frustration and urgency in Flint,” said David Gadis, vice president of Veolia North America’s Municipal & Commercial Business. “We are honored to support your community with our technical expertise so that together we can ensure water quality for the people of the city of Flint.”
Veolia anticipates its analysis to take less than two weeks, at which time they will present findings to City officials, including the Mayor, City Council and the Emergency Manager. Once the findings are presented, city officials will determine how to move forward.
“Addressing the City’s water challenges are the top priority right now and it is important to bring in an independent, highly qualified team to work with us to address the safety and quality issues,” said Mayor Dayne Walling.
“Until we have completed our analysis, we cannot say for certain how long it will take to provide solutions to Flint’s current water situation,” said Gadis. “We have extensive experience handling challenging river water sources, reducing leaks and contaminants and in managing discolored water.”
“Veolia worked diligently to respond to our Request For Proposal in a thorough, professional way and demonstrated the ability to immediately support us as we ensure safe, clean water for our residents,” said Emergency Manager Jerry Ambrose.
The Veolia team hit the ground running Tuesday morning, meeting with water officials to provide an overview of the work to be conducted. “We look forward to helping Flint’s team find ways to address and improve the city’s drinking water operation,” Gadis said.
The company designs and provides water, waste and energy management solutions to communities and industries across the country, including providing water and wastewater services to 530 communities in North America. More information is available at www.veolianorthamerica.com.
Jason Lorenz
Public Information Officer
City of Flint
(810) 237-2039
jlorenz@cityofflint.com
