There was a time in the USA when government didn't have to learn by being rejected by the public or an electorate.

At every level of government were competent practitioners of governance. Lead in drinking water was abhorred and never would be tolerated. It was a time when water treatment was monitored by competent people and ANY change in water quality would be investigated for it's source.

It was a time when citizens EXPECTED perfection in their government. The electorate had better things to do other than monitor their elected officials to be sure they were making competent decisions. I know because my family has a history, too. They have a history of being involved in local government and being competent. My family has a history of making not only competent decisions but decisions without being linked to bribery or corruption of any kind. That same family has a long history of union and it's representation. We weren't just members of our unions, we were leaders. We were asked to serve in leadership. 

This disaster in Flint is criminal. Where are the arrests? Snyder should be gone by now and not pandering to the public for redemption.