KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Despite a threat of legal liability, the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners trimmed the size of the road taxes in three local townships, claiming that they have been charging too much.
County Attorney Elizabeth White says Comstock, Charleston and Oshtemo Townships have been in violation of the Headlee Amendment for years, which requires voter approval for any local tax increases.
But Comstock Clerk Michelle Mohney blames the county for telling them it was OK.
“You are opening the door for the county to be held liable for any fallout that would arise from the county approving this levy the previous 3 years, you are also putting the county in jeopardy of litigation,” says Mohney.
Still commissioners approved the lower road millage at their meeting on Tuesday night, saying they were not willing to impose a tax that their attorney says is illegal.
Now, township officials may have some explaining to do to their homeowners.
Details on the tax rate resolutions can be found in the county’s agenda packet here.
