Statesmanship And Public Administration: A Case Study Of The Flint Water Crisis

Statesmanship and Public Administration: A Case Study of the Flint Water Crisis

Korey G. Lewis, Sr.

Liberty University

PADM610: Management of Public Sector Organizations Dr. Fred Newell

May 28, 2023

Abstract

This paper elucidates the Flint Water Crisis, showcasing its significance as a case study in public administration, particularly highlighting the necessity of statesmanship principles in managing public affairs. The Flint crisis, a public health emergency triggered by a shift in water supply from Lake Huron to the Flint River, underscored the dire need for foresight, ethical decision-making, and prioritization of public health. A key biblical wisdom drawn from Proverbs 22:3 (New International Version, 2011), serves as a

The Statesmanship Model

The Statesmanship model emphasizes a leadership style characterized by moral character, the ability to recognize and act on ethical principles, prioritize the public good, and exhibit effective interpersonal skills (Patterson, 2005).

Applying the Statesmanship model to the Flint Water Crisis highlights the failure of public officials to act morally and ethically. The decision to switch water sources was primarily economic, disregarding potential health impacts. The delay in response after residents raised concerns further undermined public trust. Statesmanship would have necessitated a more careful consideration of the consequences of the decision, prioritizing public health and safety over economic factors.

IV. Interpersonal Skills

Effective interpersonal skills are critical for statesmanship. They include effective communication, empathy, negotiation, and conflict resolution. The officials failed to effectively communicate the potential risks to residents, failed to empathize with their concerns, and failed to negotiate an effective solution quickly (Campbell, Greenberg, Mankikar, & Ross,

By applying moral character, interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and a covenantal approach, the crisis might have been avoided or mitigated. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31), an admonition that should guide public service.

VIII. References

Campbell, C., Greenberg, R., Mankikar, D., & Ross, R. (2016). A case study of environmental injustice: The failure in Flint. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 13(10), 951.

Hanna-Attisha, M., LaChance, J., Sadler, R. C., & Champney Schnepp, A. (2016). Elevated blood lead levels in children associated with the Flint drinking water crisis: a spatial analysis of risk and public health response. American Journal of Public Health, 106(2), 283-290.

Hannah, S. T., Avolio, B. J., & Walumbwa, F. O. (2011). Relationships between authentic leadership, moral courage, and ethical and pro-social behaviors. Business Ethics Quarterly, 21(4), 555-578.

Patterson, T. E. (2005). Of maps and territories: Understanding public administration. Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory, 15(2), 263-283.

The Holy Bible: New International Version. (2011). Grand Rapids, MI: