Michigan House Bill HB4964

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/7/23
• Refer: 9/7/23

Caption

Property tax: special assessments; special assessment districts for police and fire equipment; allow. Amends sec. 11 of 1951 PA 33 (MCL 41.811).

Impact

The implications of this bill on state laws are significant, as it encourages local governments to collaborate more closely in providing essential safety services. By forming joint administrative boards, municipalities might achieve greater efficiency and coordination in their police and fire services, which could result in better allocation of resources and improved public safety outcomes. However, this change might also centralize decision-making power related to public safety in a way that could limit individual townships' authority to address their unique circumstances.

Summary

House Bill 4964 proposes amendments to the 1951 PA 33 act regarding police and fire protection in Michigan. This bill allows for the joint creation of administrative boards for police and fire services by contiguous townships, villages, or qualified cities. Each administrative board may consist of appointed members from the participating entities, enabling a collaborative approach to managing police and fire forces. It aims to streamline budget preparation for police and fire departments across these areas, with provisions for appointing additional members and establishing meeting protocols.

Contention

Although intended to enhance public safety provision through cooperative governance, the bill may face scrutiny regarding the effectiveness of joint boards in meeting local needs. Critics might argue that such boards could lead to a one-size-fits-all approach to policing and firefighting, potentially overlooking the specific challenges that individual communities might face. Additionally, the methods of compensation for board members and the bureaucratic processes involved may be points of contention as municipalities weigh the benefits against the necessities of administrative overhead.