LANSING — State Representative Adam F. Zemke (D-Ann Arbor) introduced a joint resolution on Dec. 4 that would amend Michigan’s constitution to give local municipalities more control over decisions involving unused property.
Currently, the constitution does not provide an avenue for cities, villages or townships to donate property that is not needed for public purposes, to another municipality in the state of Michigan. House Joint Resolution AA would amend Sections 17A and 26A of Article VII in the state constitution to address the discrepancy.
“This issue came about organically — through local leaders in my district — and it makes a simple change that, I hope, makes my constituents’ lives better,” said Zemke, adding that the resolution is the result of a question posited by township officials who wanted to donate surplus fire equipment to another municipality, but could not find any section of state law that expressly permitting such an action. “If these resources can be used by another municipality to benefit their residents, the state should work to remove any obstacles to help make that happen.”
The resolution is co-sponsored by Reps. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor), Phil Cavanagh (D-Redford Township), Bill LaVoy (D-Monroe) and Andrew J. Kandrevas (D-Southgate).