Our Feed

We are involved in our communities, our profession, and our clients' associations and activities.

When a resident gifts a monetary donation to a township fire department, who is responsible for approving the expenditures resulting from the donation?

Although the language of the bequest may impact the exact answer to this question, assuming that the fire department is part of the township, the township board is responsible for determining how the money should be spent. Statutes governing both charter townships and general law townships specify that expenditures need to be authorized by a township board. From a practical perspective, it may be beneficial for the township board to collaborate with the volunteer fire department to come up with a way to spend the money that is mutually agreeable to both parties. But, technically speaking, a township board must determine how township money is spent.

Recent Articles & Announcements

  1. Can a township employer withhold...

    No. Michigan employers may not withhold a paycheck even if an employee (or former employee) has retained the employer’s property. The payc...

    Read More
  2. Employees or Independent Contrac...

    Townships of all sizes rely on workers to carry out basic governmental functions and keep the township running smoothly. Although larger tow...

    Read More
  3. Can the Township enter into a co...

    A Township can only enter into such a sales contract if the property is no longer being used for a public purpose. Michigan courts have defi...

    Read More
Talk to an Attorney
Request a Consultation

At Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, we’ve been helping municipalities, franchised businesses, employers, and more with their legal needs since 2008. We’d love to learn how we can help you, too.