Cityhood public meeting held before State Boundary Commission

About 35 people attended a virtual public hearing meeting last Wednesday in front of the State Boundary Commission (SBC).

The meeting, which was intended to respond to resident concerns about the proposed incorporation of the Village of Manchester as a Home Rule City in Washtenaw County, was held via Zoom because states of emergency had been previously declared in both Washtenaw and Ingham counties.

SBC chair Robin Beltramini called the meeting to order and asked Village President Pat Vailliencourt to summarize the findings of the commission that had recommended the village pursue the process of becoming a city. Vailliencourt said that it had been noted that there should be no financial repercussion on the village or the township, and that this process would give voters the opportunity to determine how they want to be governed.

Only a handful of residents actually spoke at the meeting and very few brought up questions that had not previously been addressed by Village Council in prior public meetings. Some residents appeared unclear about the purpose of the meeting and asked questions that were not germane to the issues being discussed. Beltramini reminded residents that "this meeting is not a way to contact Village Hall without making a call to Village Hall."

Audra Schebella asked questions about the cost of dividing assets, the fire department, and expressed concern that a city could potentially have no say in the actions of the township — for example, if the township decided to allow a strip mall, a gentleman's club, or a fast food chain within the township limits. She also asked if there would be provisions made for an income tax. Beltramini responded that would be up to the City Charter Commission, but added that very few cities actually do levy an income tax.

Beltramini asked for one last opportunity to ask questions and reminded residents that email messages expressing questions,  concerns, or support would not be considered unless received prior to the time of adjournment of the meeting. With no further questions, the meeting was declared adjourned at 7:44 pm.

The SBC will meet next on August 25, 2021. At that time, it will be determined whether the criteria stipulated under Section 9 of 1968 PA 191 has been met, and the commission will come to a conclusion whether or not this information supports a decision to recommend that the proposed incorporation of the Village of Manchester as a Home Rule City be approved by the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.