LANSING, Mich. — Voters in Eaton County will head to the polls on Tuesday to decide whether to approve a new public safety millage that aims to address pressing funding shortages in local law enforcement and legal services. While county officials argue the millage is crucial for maintaining public safety, some residents are concerned about the financial management of the county and the impact of increased taxes.
The proposed millage would raise taxes by an average of $12 per month per household, generating approximately $10 million in its first year. The funds would be allocated to the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department, the Prosecutor’s Office, and Animal Control. The millage is proposed to be in effect through 2034.
Sheriff Tom Reich is one of the most vocal supporters of the millage, stressing that without the additional funding, the county’s ability to maintain essential law enforcement services could be severely impacted. “If they want road patrol, they’ve got to vote yes. If they don’t, then the other people will not have law enforcement in their communities,” Reich said. “That’s the bottom line.”
Sheriff Reich and other local officials are particularly concerned about the possibility of staffing reductions if the millage fails. Reich indicated that the Sheriff’s Department could be forced to lay off up to 49 deputies, a move he believes would result in reduced coverage and safety for residents.
Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd echoed Reich’s concerns, noting that his office is already struggling with staffing shortages. “I’m down two attorneys right now, and I’m down two secretaries,” Lloyd explained. “If this millage doesn’t pass, I expect I could lose more.” Lloyd emphasized that the additional funding is essential for ensuring his office can continue to handle the growing caseload and provide necessary legal services to the community.
However, not all residents are convinced that a tax increase is the right solution. Some local taxpayers feel that the county should focus on tightening its budget before asking for more money from residents. A Grand Ledge resident, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration with the proposed tax hike. “I think that we need to look at how we can tighten our belt in other areas, before we start asking for more money,” the resident said. “I will be voting no.”
The millage, if approved, would be in place for nearly a decade, raising questions about the long-term financial commitments it would impose on residents. While county officials argue that the additional funds are necessary to avoid cuts in public safety, opponents are calling for more transparency and accountability in the county’s budgeting practices.
As voters head to the polls, the outcome of this millage proposal remains uncertain, with both sides making their case. County officials, including Sheriff Reich, are hopeful that voters will see the necessity of the measure, while critics argue that better budgeting practices should be prioritized before asking for additional taxes.
The decision on Tuesday will ultimately determine whether Eaton County will approve the millage and secure vital funding for public safety or face potential cuts that could affect law enforcement services across the county.
