© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Lansing To Pay $1.25 Million After Sewage Flooded Basements In 2013

Lansing City Hall
Reginald Hardwick
/
WKAR-MSU
Lansing City Hall

Most of a $1.25 million settlement will go to residents of a mid-Michigan city who sued after sewage flooded their basements six years ago.

The Lansing State Journal reported Monday that the Lansing City Council agreed to the settlement, which allows Lansing to avoid admitting fault.

DeAnna Ray-Brown of Lansing spearheaded the class-action lawsuit against the city after untreated sewage flowed into her basement during a June 2013 storm.

She says sewage-tainted water destroyed carpet, furniture and a washer-dryer in her finished basement.

The lawsuit argued that the city failed to properly maintain its sewer system.

Lansing City Attorney Jim Smiertka says there were about 400 plaintiffs in the case.

Meanwhile, Lansing has filed several lawsuits of its own in an attempt to recoup some money.

Related Content
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.