Summary
The Glen Arbor Township Board held a public budget hearing on September 10, 2025, at the Glen Lake Fire Department to review the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget for the Emergency Services Special Assessment District (ESAD). Chief Ferguson presented the draft budget, which had been reviewed twice by the Emergency Services Advisory Commission (ESAC) and previously presented to both the Empire and Glen Arbor Township Boards. ESAC recommended the Township Board approve the proposed 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 specific proposals were made by the public.
Infrastructure Projects
Chief Ferguson presented projections for Capital Expenditures, including vehicle and equipment replacements, extending out to 2047. He explained 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
Board Member Tom Laureto stated he had met with Chief Ferguson regarding the proposed budget and considers it responsible. He noted the Department regularly receives public notes expressing appreciation for the professionalism and empathy of personnel during emergency responses.
Financial Summary
The proposed FY 27 ESAD budget reflects an increase in operations of $292,500 over the previous year's budget, primarily attributed to increased personnel and benefits costs. Capital budget contributions from Empire and Glen Arbor Townships will rise from $195,000 each (the rate maintained for 16 years) to $325,000 each for the coming year, with a 3% annual increase thereafter. ESAC recommended Board approval of the budget at the September 16th Township Board meeting; no formal vote was taken at this hearing.
Action Items
The Glen Arbor Township Board is expected to consider approval of the proposed FY 27 ESAD budget at its September 16th meeting, per ESAC's recommendation.