Editorial: Broadband initiative in Manchester Township will affect Village residents too

Map of Manchester Township. The Village of Manchester is located in the top right corner.

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by Pat Vailliencourt, President, Village of Manchester

Most of us have heard bits and pieces about bringing broadband to the townships in our community. The need for this has been a discussion for many years at local, county, state, and federal levels. Those of us that live in the village, and have broadband services, may be under the impression that it does not involve or affect us. As Village President, I feel it is extremely important for village residents to understand that as a village, we are part of Manchester Township. Michigan state law currently does not allow special assessments for installation of fiber-optic lines.

As Manchester Township proceeds with the Feasibility Study that may eventually lead to a ballot proposal for funding, by law they must include the village as part of this project. This means that village residents will be taxed in the same manner as Manchester Township residents.

Sharon Township recently completed their Feasibility Study and will be putting out a bond proposal to fund $4.9 million for 20 years. Village residents currently pay over $150,000 annually to Manchester Township for services they provide. If this initiative passes, based on the Sharon Township study, it is very probable that the amount paid by village taxpayers to Manchester Township will double, without any change to services received.

Another part of this initiative is that the millage will be assessed by parcel, not residence. This means that if you own property that is divided into multiple parcels, each will receive an assessment. If you do not live in a township that passes this millage but own vacant property, including farmland, you will receive an assessment--even though you cannot vote.

I completely understand the need for better internet services in rural areas. My objective is not to try to have this initiative defeated, but rather to ensure that we fully understand exactly what this means and to protect village residents from additional taxes that provide no benefits.

Our state Representative, Donna Lasinski, has introduced a bill to allow special assessments but it is stalled in committee due to lack of support. Rep. Lasinski will be at the Seniors Luncheon at Emanuel Church at 12:45 on Thursday, March 29. Please join us to hear an update, express your support, and/or share concerns.

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