Hillsdale County residents are waking up to a critical issue—an issue that could bind the county to 20 years of financial risk and liability. The proposed $15.5 million bond for the LifeWays building is not just a matter of public spending; it’s about the future of our community, its infrastructure, and its fiscal health. Citizens for Hillsdale County have taken the lead in raising awareness about this issue, and they’re rallying for change. Now, they need your support to send a powerful message to our commissioners: Protect the taxpayers, protect the future.
What’s at Stake?
The proposed bond for the LifeWays building presents a clear and present danger to the financial stability of Hillsdale County. Let’s break down why this is not just a bad deal—it’s a reckless one.
1. Fiscal Irresponsibility
Only 1,700 out of 37,000 residents directly benefit from LifeWays services—yet all taxpayers would be liable for this bond. While LifeWays could pursue a commercial loan like any private entity, taxpayers are being asked to assume the risk. The bond only saves LifeWays 1% of its annual budget, but it risks 1/16 of the county’s entire general fund. This is a risk the county can’t afford.
2. Imminent Federal Cuts = Imminent Risk
LifeWays relies on federal funding for over 90% of its budget. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced a staggering 26.6% budget cut next year, and the State of Michigan is also proposing funding changes. In this unstable funding environment, it’s reckless to tie Hillsdale County to a 20-year obligation for a building that might not even be able to generate the revenue to meet its obligations.
3. Lack of Transparency & Misleading the Public
Most residents are still unaware of this bond and its long-term consequences. Despite being voted down twice, it was reintroduced after a seat change. Even the Daily News delayed their report but eventually confirmed the dangers of federal funding cuts. Commissioner Wiley has misrepresented the financial burden, claiming taxpayers wouldn’t be liable—something contradicted by bond counsel. The public deserves the truth, and it’s time our commissioners stand by their responsibility to be transparent with the taxpayers.
4. The Long-Term Consequences
This bond locks the county into a 20-year agreement with LifeWays, effectively eliminating the possibility of future alternatives—even if better service providers emerge. If the county’s financial situation worsens, there’s no escape. The taxpayers will foot the bill for 20 years, no matter what happens and be stuck with Lifeways lack of accountability and transparency.
5. The Voice of the People
The bond has sparked widespread opposition across the county. Regardless of personal opinions on LifeWays’ services, most residents agree that this bond is a bad deal for taxpayers. It’s not just about LifeWays; it’s about safeguarding the future of the county and ensuring that taxpayer money is spent wisely.
Tomorrow’s Meeting: A Chance to Take Action
Tomorrow, Tuesday, July 8th, at 9 a.m., the Hillsdale County Commissioners will meet to discuss this important issue. Citizens for Hillsdale County have been leading the charge to hold our commissioners accountable, and now it’s time to show up in force.
Doug and Brad have pledged to vote no on this bond, but they need our support to hold Commissioner Collins to his word and ensure he votes against it due to the liability it put’s on the county. If we let this bond pass, we could be risking $1 million a year from the county’s budget for the next 20 years—money that could go toward much-needed services like public safety, road maintenance, and the county jail.
Let’s Show Up and Be Heard
The Citizens for Hillsdale County are doing the hard work, and now it’s our turn to stand behind them. Come to the Commissioners’ meeting tomorrow July 8th at 9 a.m. and show your support for fiscal responsibility, transparency, and good governance. The future of our county depends on the decisions made tomorrow—and your voice matters.
Together, we can make sure Hillsdale County stays on track for a strong and secure future. See you at the meeting!
In Liberty,
The Hillsdale Conservatives.
Not fiscally responsible; VOTE NO!