Summary
The Glen Arbor Township Board held a public budget hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget for the Emergency Services Special Assessment District (Glen Lake Fire Department). Chief Ferguson presented the draft budget, which showed an increase in operations of $292,500 over the prior year, primarily due to increased personnel and benefit costs. The Emergency Services Advisory Commission (ESAC) recommended the Township Board approve the budget at its September 16th meeting.
Public Comments
No public comment was offered at the start of the meeting. Later in the meeting, one unnamed member of the public commented that "the Department's personnel are fantastic." No other public comments or written letters were noted.
Infrastructure Projects
Chief Ferguson presented a long-range Capital Expenditure projection through 2047, covering vehicle and equipment replacement for the fire department. He noted that for the past 16 years, Empire and Glen Arbor Townships have each contributed $195,000 per year to the Capital budget, an amount that has not kept pace with inflation. Beginning this coming year, each township will contribute $325,000 to the Capital budget, with an annual 3% increase, which is projected to cover all vehicle replacement costs through 2047.
Other Business
Supervisor Laureto commented that he had met with Chief Ferguson regarding the proposed budget and considers it responsible. He noted that the Department regularly receives public notes of appreciation for the professionalism and empathy of its personnel during emergency responses.
Financial Summary
- Proposed FY27 operations budget increase: $292,500 over the previous year, attributed mainly to personnel and benefits costs.
- Capital budget contributions: Empire and Glen Arbor Townships each historically contributed $195,000/year; this will rise to $325,000/year each, with a 3% annual increase going forward.
- ESAC recommended Board approval of the FY27 budget.
Action Items
- Glen Arbor Township Board to consider approval of the proposed FY27 ESA budget at its September 16th meeting.