UPDATE: The Sand Lake Village Council has just rejected key fire contract terms proposed by Pierson Township, leading to a significant funding crisis for local fire services. During a special meeting held on December 4, 2025, at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake, Village President Mollie Doerr emphasized, “We cannot operate at those low costs,” highlighting the urgent need for increased funding.
Residents, township officials, and firefighters packed the meeting as the council sought clarity on the escalating costs of fire contracts with Pierson Township in Montcalm County, Ensley Township in Newaygo County, and Nelson Township in Kent County. The discussions centered around a proposed 24.71% cost increase to adequately fund fire services, including a critical need for a new fire truck estimated at $1.1 million.
The council previously agreed to a 6% cost increase with Pierson Township in June, but the village’s recent request for a larger hike has sparked controversy. Pierson officials stated that any increase beyond the agreed amount would need to come from their general fund, as voter-approved fire millage cannot be used for capital purchases. This claim was disputed by Doerr, who argued that other communities successfully allocate funds for both operations and capital expenditures.
The existing fire contract between Sand Lake and Pierson is not set to expire until March 31, 2026, but tensions are rising. The Pierson Township Board has proposed terms including a 30-day termination clause and the establishment of a fire board to ensure equal representation among the entities involved. However, the Sand Lake Council voted unanimously to reject these terms, escalating the situation further.
During the meeting, Doerr emphasized the dire state of rural fire departments, stating, “We must approach this with open minds as the safety of our residents is our top priority.” However, significant disagreements persist regarding the funding and management of fire services, with Pierson Township Supervisor Patrick Maioho expressing disappointment over the ongoing communication issues.
Residents voiced their concerns over the fiscal health of the Sand Lake Fire Department, which is currently staffed by just 18 volunteer firefighters. Village Treasurer Tyler Kaiser reported that over the past decade, operational costs have nearly tripled, citing rising expenses in equipment and vehicle maintenance. He warned, “This is kind of a skeleton crew, bare bones fire department. We need significantly more money.”
The looming financial crisis is compounded by the village’s history of deficit notices from the Michigan Department of Treasury, raising further questions about fiscal responsibility. Residents are demanding transparency as the village prepares to navigate a potential restructuring of fire services that may include downsizing or liquidating the Sand Lake Fire Department altogether.
In public comments, Ensley Township Trustee Tim Newton challenged the council’s narrative regarding Ensley’s participation in fire discussions, insisting that their efforts to support the fire department have been consistent. This highlights the growing frustration among townships about the lack of effective communication and collaboration.
As the situation intensifies, upcoming meetings on December 15, 2025, will be crucial for Pierson Township and Sand Lake Village Council to address the fire contract crisis and explore viable solutions. With the future of fire services hanging in the balance, residents and officials alike are urged to stay informed and engaged in the discussions that will shape fire safety in their communities.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned.
