We have had a few questions regarding the recent posting for the Budget Public Hearing that will occur during this month’s regularly scheduled board meeting. This Budget hearing and requisite public notice take place annually in March, and the posting includes specific language required by state statute.
The state sets the exact wording and even the requirement for 11-point boldface type, this is not something we have control over.
The statute requires this statement: “The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing.”
Honestly, we can see how this statement could be confusing, or possibly bring someone to the conclusion that a new millage or millage rate increase is being proposed during the hearing, this is not the case. The millage rates are unchanged.
This required statement simply means the current year’s budget is supported by revenues generated by the previously approved millage(s).
As in previous years, the board is holding the required hearing in consideration of adopting the annual budget for the 2025-2026 year. The current millage rates and subsequent revenues generated are listed as part of the General Appropriations Act (Budget). The draft budget is available for inspection at the office during regular business hours, until the day of the hearing.
Here is the State of Michigan Compiled Law excerpt for reference:
BUDGET HEARINGS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENTS (EXCERPT)
Act 43 of 1963 (2nd Ex. Sess.)
141.412 Local unit of government; public hearing on proposed budget; notice.
Sec. 2.
A local unit shall hold a public hearing on its proposed budget. The local unit shall give notice of the hearing by publication in a newspaper of general circulation within the local unit at least 6 days before the hearing. The notice shall include the time and place of the hearing and shall state the place where a copy of the budget is available for public inspection. The notice shall also include the following statement printed in 11-point boldfaced type: “The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing.”
* Millage rates and any proposed increases are voted on by residents during regular elections.
