1/9/13 - The Hartland Township Board is looking to the future as it prepares to adopt another tight budget, although with some bright spots. Officials discussed revenue projections for the coming year at Tuesday nightâs meeting and what is expected to be a slight increase in general fund revenues. Township Manager James Wickman plans to deliver budget recommendations February 1st and is looking at status quo on most things. However, he tells WHMI theyâre actually seeing a positive trend in property tax revenues along with state shared revenue from the stateâs use and sales tax. Wickman says the state is seeing an increase in that revenue, which municipalities get a portion of. He says it bottomed out the last few years but then started to come back up as actual sales transactions in the state increased. Planning and zoning fees along with franchise fees for a cell tower lease the township has are also all said to be increasing a little bit. However, Wickman notes that the township is continuing to see an increase in the cost of services. Wickman says in years past, there were revenue declines and the township has managed and budgeted well under pressure. However, theyâre now seeing a demand for more services but the township still doesnât have the revenue to provide it so if residents really are seeking better roads, parks and police coverage, thatâs where possible millage questions could come about to offset those costs. The board has been awaiting the results of a citizen survey that went out to make some budget-related decisions along with others to generally move the municipality forward. It will discuss the survey at its January 22nd meeting and is looking to adopt the 2013/2014 budget in March. (JM)
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