While we respect the right of a property owner to appeal the assessment rolls, the counties followed the laws and regulations of the State. Appeal attorney, Michael Homier’s comments to the Midland Daily News that the counties “jumped the gun" reflects a profound misunderstanding of four years of community work requiring over 40 state permits to comply with state regulatory requirements and get to the final construction phase of the project. Standing still and doing nothing was not an option and not in the best interest of the Four Lakes community.
Since Four Lakes Task Force shared its draft assessment rolls in December 2023 for the restoration project costs and 2025-2029 Operations & Maintenance costs, we have made over 1,400 updates to the assessment roll including parcel combinations and splits and benefit factor updates. A summary of the changes will be presented to the Gladwin and Midland county commissioners and can be found here.
Representatives Mike Hoadley and Bill G. Schuette enrolled House Bills 5419 and 5420 to amend Act 225 of 1976 which permits the State of Michigan to cover the cost of special assessments for low-income seniors. This would reinstate a previously expired program to provide important financial relief for seniors paying special assessments - a bill that would apply to the Four Lakes.
Comprehensive WInter weather work plansMichigan winter weather conditions impaired but did not stop construction activities at the dams. Crews on the sites follow a comprehensive safety plan that ensures work is completed safely and with reasonable productivity during winter weather. February’s progress update is included in this report.
On January 15, 2024, Four Lakes Task Force held a public hearing on the computation of costs and special assessment rolls for the Four Lakes Special Assessment District (FL SAD). Over the entire day, 398 people attended - 137 verbally objected.
In December, FLTF shared an estimated capital assessment range. After refining these numbers and considering the timing and risk associated with permitting and financing, the total capital amount to be assessed for financing is $217,700,000. This number includes the costs for the total project, financing and contingency, minus reductions including State of Michigan and federal grants. This is the total amount to be financed that will be presented at the January 15 public hearing for approval. Property owners are encouraged to revisit the assessment map on the FLTF website later today or this weekend to see their estimated capital assessment amount that is no longer presented as a range. The map will be updated by the end of today (Jan. 5).
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