Clarkston, Michigan – The Village of Clarkston is confronting a possible interruption in its police, fire and emergency medical services after a millage measure on the November ballot fell short by just 25 votes. The measure, which would have added roughly $20 per month to the average homeowner’s tax bill, was intended to fund the village’s public‑safety operations for the upcoming fiscal year beginning May 2027.
Council convenes to discuss next steps
Village Manager Jonathan Smith told the Clarkston City Council that the wording of the ballot measure was constrained by the new budget, which does not take effect until May 2027. “If you don’t have police and fire and EMS, can you imagine what’s going to happen? It’s not going to be the small‑town, quaint community that we want Clarkston to be,” Smith said during the meeting.
Smith outlined two primary paths forward. The first is to schedule a special election in May, giving voters another chance to approve the millage. The second is to seek alternative financing or cost‑saving measures to keep essential services running without the additional revenue.
Current service arrangements
At present, Clarkston contracts with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for police protection and the Independence Township Fire Department for fire and EMS response. Should the village lose these contracts or be forced to reduce service levels, residents would likely rely on the Michigan State Police and the North Oakland Fire Authority for emergency assistance.
Smith emphasized that the village’s public‑safety budget is a critical component of the overall community plan. “We want to preserve the quality of life that makes Clarkston attractive to families and businesses alike,” he said. “Maintaining reliable police and fire services is a cornerstone of that vision.”
Community reaction
Local residents expressed concern over the narrow margin of defeat. Some voiced support for the millage, noting that a modest increase in property taxes would safeguard the village’s safety infrastructure. Others questioned the need for higher taxes, suggesting that the village explore more efficient use of existing funds.
Several community leaders urged the council to act swiftly, warning that prolonged uncertainty could affect insurance rates, property values, and overall confidence in local governance.
What lies ahead
The council is expected to vote on a resolution to schedule a special election and to commission a review of possible cost‑reduction strategies. Smith indicated that the village will also engage with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and Independence Township Fire Department to discuss interim arrangements, should funding gaps emerge.
Clarkston’s next council meeting, slated for early December, will provide a forum for public comment and further deliberation on how best to preserve essential services while respecting taxpayers’ concerns.
Key dates and figures
- Millage shortfall: 25 votes
- Proposed additional cost to average homeowner: about $20 per month
- Current contracts: Oakland County Sheriff’s Office (police), Independence Township Fire Department (fire/EMS)
- Potential special election: May 2027
- Next council meeting: early December 2026
The village’s leadership remains committed to finding a solution that upholds public safety without imposing undue financial strain on residents.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
