HB 5969 Summary

• Amends 1954 PA 188 governing township special assessments for improvements to require voter approval when a special assessment district encompasses the entire township.

• After December 31, 2009, a township-wide special assessment must be approved by a majority of township electors at a general election or special election called for that purpose.

• Maintains existing procedures allowing township boards to proceed with improvements unless written objections from property owners representing more than 20% of affected land area are filed before a hearing.

• Requires a supporting petition signed by property owners representing more than 50% of the affected land area if objections are filed or if the township board requires a petition before proceeding.

• Property owner requirements vary based on improvement type: certain improvements require signatures from owners of over 50% of total land area in the assessment district, while road and sidewalk improvements require signatures from owners of over 50% of total frontage.