MUSKEGON TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Muskegon Township officials are urging voters to approve a proposed 5.25-mill property tax increase next month to fund the township’s police and fire departments. The new millage comes after the expiration of a long-standing 2.6802-mill levy this year, leaving the departments reliant on the township’s general fund for operation. Without a new funding source, local leaders warn that services and staffing levels could be significantly impacted.
The proposal was discussed during an informational meeting at Fire Station 1, where Township Supervisor Jennifer Hodges, along with Police Chief Patrick VanDommelen and Fire Chief Matt Ambrose, presented the need for the additional millage. The township’s public safety departments, both of which have seen strains in resources and personnel, are hoping the millage will provide the necessary funding to maintain operations and meet growing demands.
Fire Department Struggles with Staffing Shortages
Fire Chief Matt Ambrose outlined the challenges faced by his department, particularly when responding to structure fires. Ambrose explained that, while national standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) call for 15 to 16 firefighters on a working fire, Muskegon Township crews typically operate with only six or seven. He noted that the department is able to manage with fewer personnel, but it places a significant strain on the firefighters, who are often forced to take on additional tasks such as changing air bottles and rotating in and out of the fire scene.
“If we can get three more personnel, that’s guaranteed staffing for us that gives the best service possible to the people that live in this community,” Ambrose said, emphasizing the need for more personnel to ensure safer and more effective fire response.
Police Department Faces Overburdened Officers
Meanwhile, Police Chief Patrick VanDommelen discussed the strain placed on the police department’s patrol officers, who often juggle multiple responsibilities due to a lack of staffing. VanDommelen explained that without dedicated detectives, patrol officers are tasked with investigating crimes in addition to their regular duties. He noted that additional detectives would enable the department to process evidence more efficiently, leading to higher solvability rates and better overall outcomes in criminal investigations.
“Without detectives, patrol officers are the ones who have to investigate these crimes,” VanDommelen explained. “If we were able to have two detectives, those detectives would be able to have the time and resources to sift through all the evidence and ultimately have better solvability rates.”
Millage Funds Would Provide Critical Support
The proposed 5.25-mill tax increase is expected to raise approximately $2.7 million in its first year, which would cover a portion of the $4.7 million needed for public safety in 2025. The remaining funding would be drawn from the township’s general fund. The millage, if passed, would provide a critical infusion of resources for both departments, allowing for staffing improvements, the purchase of necessary equipment, and enhanced public safety services.
“We know this is a heavy burden on them, especially right now, but we’re trying to provide them with the service that they deserve, and that’s going to keep us the safest,” Supervisor Jennifer Hodges said. “We are humbly asking that they consider this for us.”
The proposal will be on the ballot for voters on May 6, and township leaders are hopeful that residents will recognize the importance of supporting their local police and fire services. With the general fund no longer sufficient to cover the costs of public safety, the millage presents a pivotal opportunity for the community to ensure the continued effectiveness of these essential services.
As the vote approaches, Muskegon Township residents will need to decide whether to approve the new millage, which officials argue is necessary to maintain the safety and well-being of the community.
