TEXAS TOWNSHIP, MI -- Texas Township needs more money to fund its fire department.

But township residents are at odds over how to increase funding —including whether it should go to a vote or not.

Some support a proposed new tax to create additional funding. Others say their tax bills are already too high.

“It’s not sustainable,” said Texas Township Supervisor JoAnne O’Rourke. “We’re at the point now where something’s got to give.”

The township fire department’s primary funding source is the township’s general fund. The department also receives funds to staff two full-time firefighters during every shift from a 2020 millage for fire department improvements .

Inflation is raising costs higher than the general fund can support, O’Rourke said.

“As you continue to level up through thes

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