3 days ago
Eaton County feeling the impact of failed public safety millage
EATON COUNTY, Mich. (WLNS) – Officials in Eaton County say they're feeling the impacts of the failed public safety millage that appeared last November, and again at the beginning of May.
The millage failed in May with almost 57% of voters rejecting the proposal. Sheriff Tom Reich tells 6 News this has caused a lack of road patrol, more staff resignations—and only one officer working for animal control.
Eaton County, Delta Township reach tentative deal on police services
That single officer is mostly responsible for maintaining the building, caring for animals, and completing paperwork. With the shelter at full capacity and Animal Control without officers to send out, Sheriff Reich says the community will need to rely on local police departments for their needs.
The sheriff also says he's sad to see so many great deputies moving to other departments due to a lack of stability and support.
Eaton County officials discuss major budget cuts
While officials understand that community members may not want a tax increase, they say they'll pay the price in other ways.
'Public safety is what they're gonna give up,' said Sheriff Reich. 'Sure, Michigan State Police is going to be out there taking calls. However, you've got to keep in mind there's only so many troopers out there at Post 11, and they have three different counties to worry about.'
Plans for another attempt at the Public Safety Millage are up in the air at the moment, but Sheriff Reich says there's a possibility of trying again in 2026.
'Taxes, no one likes taxes. I don't like taxes either. I think public safety would be worth it,' said Sheriff Reich. 'This is the first time Eaton County has ever had this kind of a problem of having no road patrol, and it's a first for me.'
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