Dexter Twp’s New Balanced Budget Includes Some Tax Relief

Dexter Township describes it new budget plan as balanced while also delivering some temporary tax relief to its residents. With the approval by the township board at its March 17 meeting, Dexter Township has its budget plan for the new fiscal year that begins next month.

The budget has revenues projected at $4,037,160 and operating costs at $3,664,195.

In his report for the meeting on the 17^th, township supervisor Lonnie Scott said “As we prepare to enter FY 2027 beginning April 1, I want to thank the members of the board and the staff for helping to shape the FY 2027 budget over the course of the past few months. The Township remains in good financial position in no small part thanks to the dedication of the elected officials and staff who strive to be good stewards of tax dollars, while moving many important initiatives and projects forward to benefit our residents.”

In its message to the community, Dexter Township said the board unanimously approved the new budget with continuing a “strong track record of fiscal responsibility while providing targeted, temporary tax relief for residents.”

The township said the “budget is balanced and funds Township priorities without using reserves, aside from those noted from the Police fund, underscoring the Township’s commitment to sustainable, long-term financial planning.”

Among its many priorities, the township said the “budget continues funding for the popular Park Pass program, increases investment to secure the maximum available road-funding match from the Washtenaw County Road Commission, and supports technology upgrades to enhance both the Township website and boardroom, improving service and accessibility for residents.”

The temporary tax relief comes from the township board voting unanimously not to levy the police millage for FY 2027, “citing a healthy surplus in the Township’s police fund.”

“This decision will provide meaningful, short-term financial relief to Township residents while maintaining the high level of public safety services the community expects,” Dexter Township said in its budget message to the community.

With this, township officials “emphasized that this is a one-time action, made possible by careful stewardship and responsible budgeting in prior years. The Township will continue to closely monitor fund balances and service demands to ensure long-term sustainability.”

In the budget message, Township Supervisor Scott said, “This budget reflects both strong financial management and an understanding of what our residents are experiencing right now. With everyday costs continuing to rise—from groceries to gas—we looked for a way the Township could provide some relief, without compromising the services people rely on. Because of the strength of our police fund, we’re able to offer that relief on a temporary basis. It’s a thoughtful, one-time action to help our community during a time when every bit makes a difference.”

Township residents can review the budget at the township’s website.