Frequently asked questions
What does the petition say?
The exact wording on the petition reads:
"We, the undersigned, qualified and registered electors, resident in the County Hillsdale, State of Michigan, respectively petition for: Shall the County of Hillsdale issue its limited tax obligation bonds in one or more series in the aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $15,500,00 (Fifteen million, five hundred thousand dollars) to finance all or part of the cost of the construction of a new community mental health facility?"
Why are people so concerned about the bond?
Economic times are hard, and the Trump administration is dedicated to slashing federal spending. With more than 95% of LifeWays’ income coming from Medicaid, a default is a real possibility.
How big of a risk is the to Hillsdale County?
This bond is a HUGE RISK for Hillsdale County. The county has limited credit available. Issuing a 15.5 million dollar bond for the construction of a new LifeWays facility will limit what other projects the county can do for the next 20 years. We already have an overcrowded jail in need of expansion, 800 unserved warrants a year due to lack of resources, crumbling roads ranked second worst in Michigan, and too little funding to keep up county parks.
If the bond is approved and LifeWays should miss a payment, how will that affect the county?
Should LifeWays miss a payment, the county is liable. Just ONE missed payment would consume over $1 million of our County General Fund, 7% of the entire county budget ($16 million/yr). To cover a missed payment, the County could be forced to cut funding to other essential services in the county.
Where can I learn more?
Visit our News & Updates page for links to articles about the bond issue's history, important stats, and more.
Will voting NO on the bond prevent access to mental health services?
Access to mental health services is crucial to our community and you should know that voting NO on the bond will not prevent that care from happening. LifeWays' services will continue regardless of if they obtain this bond or take out a regular commercial loan to finance their proposed building.
Who are Citizens for Hillsdale County?
We are an organization made up of Hillsdale County residents that are dedicated to ensuring the people of Hillsdale County have a voice! YOU, the taxpayer, DESERVE TO HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD ON THIS ISSUE!! Citizens for Hillsdale County will be circulating a petition that aims to give the people of Hillsdale County back their voice and allows them to decide for ourselves if this bond is a risk worth taking, or a unnecessary gamble! Your signature is crucial for ensuring our community's concerns are heard and that WE have a say what happens in OUR community and with OUR tax money!
How can you help?
There are many ways you can help!
-Sign the petition, gather signatures from your family and friends.
- Write your local newspaper, radio, or anywhere else to help spread the word.
-Donate with Venmo @Citizens4HillsdaleCounty
- Follow us on social media.
Where can I sign the petition?
We're here to help you sign the petition and make your voice heard!
- Shoot us an email at citizensforhillsdale@gmail.com and a representative will reach out to you.
- Check out the community events page for upcoming petition drives and signing locations
-Find us on Facebook at Citizens for Hillsdale County for current updates as well.
Sign the petition
Ready to make a difference in Hillsdale County? Sign the petition and join Citizens for Hillsdale County in shaping our community's future!
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