Flint, Michigan is mourning the loss of outspoken Councilman Eric Mays, who died from natural causes on Saturday, Feb. 24. He was 65.
Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said Mays was beloved by his constituents in the First Ward. Mays represented the First Ward on the City Council for more than 10 years.
Outspoken Flint City Councilman Eric Mays has died https://t.co/rgi9AFZqJq
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) February 25, 2024
“This is a tremendous loss for our community and a shock to all friends and family,” Neeley said. “As our community grieves during this difficult time, on behalf of Councilman Mays’ family, we ask that community members respect their privacy and allow them time and space to mourn. We continue to lift the family in prayer.”
Mays was very vocal during the Flint water crisis when the drinking water supply contained dangerously high levels of lead.
Then-President Barack Obama declared a federal emergency in Michigan, which freed up federal aid to replace the lead and galvanized steel water lines.
Later, President Obama traveled to Flint, and drank a glass of filtered water on live television to prove the water was safe.
“Councilman Mays was not only a dedicated public servant but also a tireless champion for the people of Flint,” said Flint City Council President Ladel Lewis. “His unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community has left an indelible mark, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
@winksambition @therealericmays & @tyneetalks getting low @ my Annual Flint 2 Dallas Picnic! #ericmays #fromflint2dallas ? original sound – WinksAmbition
Mays went viral when another City Council member accused him of “gaslighting” (see the video below).
Mays was arrested at another council meeting last year and suspended for disorderly conduct.
He was serving a three-month suspension from the council at the time of his death.
