Eric B. Mays: The People’s Councilman

By: John E. Groff, Jr – July 20, 2024

Few public servants have left a mark on the City of Flint quite like Councilman Eric Bradford Mays. To some, he was a fighter. To others, he was a firebrand. To the people of Flint’s First Ward, however, Eric Mays was something far more meaningful—an unwavering advocate who refused to be silenced when he believed the voices of everyday citizens were being ignored.

For more than four decades, Eric Mays dedicated his life to public service and civic engagement. Long before he was elected to the Flint City Council, he attended public meetings, challenged elected officials, and stood beside residents who believed their government had forgotten them. His commitment to accountability, transparency, and justice became the defining characteristics of his public life.

Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Eric Mays graduated from Flint Northern High School before attending Michigan State University. He later worked for General Motors, where his involvement with organized labor helped shape the determination and resilience that would define his political career. Those who knew him understood that Eric was never afraid to ask difficult questions, challenge authority, or stand alone if he believed he was right.

In 2013, Flint voters elected Eric Mays to represent the City’s First Ward on the Flint City Council. It was a position he would proudly hold until his passing in February 2024. Throughout his years in office, he remained committed to representing the people who elected him, often placing their interests above political convenience. He viewed his office not as a title, but as a responsibility to fight for those whose voices were too often overlooked.

Perhaps no chapter of Eric Mays’ public service better illustrates his dedication than the Flint Water Crisis. When residents began reporting contaminated water, illnesses, skin rashes, and unsafe drinking conditions, Mays became one of the earliest elected officials to publicly question government assurances that everything was safe. While many continued to dismiss the concerns of Flint families, Eric Mays stood beside the residents, demanding answers and insisting that government officials be held accountable.

His willingness to speak out helped draw national attention to one of the greatest public health failures in modern American history. History will forever remember Eric Mays as one of the local leaders who refused to allow the voices of Flint residents to be ignored.

Eric Mays’ style of leadership was unmistakable. Council meetings often became spirited exchanges as he passionately defended his positions and challenged decisions he believed were not in the public’s best interest. His now-famous calls for “Point of Order!” became recognized around the country through countless viral videos shared across social media. While some viewed his style as controversial, others saw authenticity—a public servant who never allowed political pressure or public criticism to silence him.

His supporters admired his courage, his persistence, and his refusal to compromise when he believed the people of Flint deserved better. Even many of his critics acknowledged that his passion for his community was genuine and that his commitment to his constituents never wavered.

As his years on the City Council progressed, Eric Mays faced increasing political opposition. Disagreements with fellow council members often evolved into legal disputes concerning council procedures, disciplinary actions, and his ability to fully participate in the work of the Council. Through every challenge, he remained committed to representing the residents who had repeatedly entrusted him with their vote. He firmly believed that public service required standing on principle—even when standing alone.

During those difficult years, Eric Mays developed a close relationship with his litigation team at Lento Law Group. His attorneys worked tirelessly to protect his legal rights, advocate on his behalf, and defend his ability to continue serving the citizens of Flint. Their representation extended far beyond the courtroom. The firm’s commitment to Eric remained steadfast until his final days and continued through his funeral, reflecting not only a professional relationship but a profound respect for the man they proudly represented.

Those who knew Eric best often heard him speak about ensuring that his life’s work would continue long after he was gone. Friends, family members, and his attorneys shared his belief that the values he championed—service, accountability, courage, and advocacy for the people of Flint—should never end with his passing.

It is in that spirit that the Eric B. Mays Foundation was established as a nonprofit organization recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation exists to preserve Eric Mays’ legacy by continuing the work that mattered most to him: serving the community, empowering young people, supporting senior citizens, promoting civic engagement, encouraging leadership, and advocating for those whose voices might otherwise go unheard.

The Foundation stands as more than a memorial. It is a living commitment to the principles that Eric Mays embraced throughout his life. Every scholarship awarded, every family assisted, every community initiative undertaken, and every young leader inspired represents another chapter in the legacy he worked so hard to build.

Eric B. Mays was never interested in being remembered simply as a politician. He wanted to be remembered as someone who fought for his city, who challenged the status quo, who demanded accountability, and who never stopped believing that the people of Flint deserved honest leadership.

Today, that fight continues.

Through the Eric B. Mays Foundation, his voice continues to inspire. His vision continues to guide. His commitment to the people of Flint continues to live on.

Because legends never truly leave us—they live on through the lives they continue to change.