Atlas Twp.-It’s going to cost more to be safe.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Department contract with the township will increase by about 9 percent to $476,700 for November 2008 though October 2009. The new contract proposal to replace the contract which expired the first of November, was delayed by a few weeks due to ongoing budget negotiations at the county.
‘We are happy with the service here in the township, but we want our money’s worth,? said Township Supervisor Shirley Kautman-Jones. ‘The township has the money to cover contract cost this year. We plan on an extensive review of the contract and the findings will be presented at the Dec. 15 township board of trustees meeting.?
The township established a contract with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department about 13 years ago, funded by 1 mill from area property owners. The millage was increased in 2005 by a special assessment of $50 for every improved lot and $25 for unimproved lots. The contract includes four deputies assigned to the township area with a population of about 7,200. Township officials say the sheriff’s department has increased the cost of the contract by about 30 percent since 2001. The contract covers vehicles, detectives and administration.
‘Right now gas prices are down significantly,? said Kautman-Jones. ‘We anticipate these lower costs reflected in some way in the contract.?
James Gage, Genesee County Undersheriff said the 8 percent increase in cost was due to several factors.
‘We have the same four deputies in the township,? said Gage. ‘The deputies? contract calls for a 4 percent wage increase. The county also tacked on a 2.5 percent post-retirement fee. This year an intergovernmental service fee of $8,025 for the accounting staff is added onto the contract.?
In November, area voters approved a 1 mill renewal for the next five years for police protection. A resident with a $200,000 home will continue to pay $100 per year for the service from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department. The estimated revenue the township will collect if the millage is renewed is about $349,168.
Kautman-Jones said the special assessment will generate about $161,675 over the next year to help pay for the contract.