In an effort to cut costs, Flint city officials decided to switch the municipal water supply from Lake Huron to the Flint River, a move made in April 2014. The Flint River water, known for its corrosiveness, was not treated properly with anti-corrosive chemicals. As a result, lead from aging pipes leached into the drinking water, exposing residents to hazardous levels of lead. The consequences were dire, with many residents experiencing health issues, including rashes and high lead levels in their blood. Additionally, the lack of proper water treatment led to an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease, which claimed several lives and hospitalized many others.The decision to switch water sources was rooted in the city's financial struggles, aiming to save approximately $5 million. However, the repercussions of this cost-cutting measure extended far beyond financial implications. Concerned citizens began raising alarms about the water quality and the health risks associated with contamination. Despite these warnings, officials initially dismissed the complaints, assuring residents that the water was safe to drink. The situation sparked widespread anger and activism among the community, leading to investigations by the state and federal governments into the management and oversight of public health and safety.