Some residents/organizations have enough support to do a project on their own without asking the township to collect money for their project via taxes. The benefit here is this is often quicker and more flexible than what a government can legally offer. The drawback may be collection of money, but if there is enough support then it is not any more difficult than getting signed petitions. In either case, open meetings and legal compliance remain key. Some deciding factors may be: the size and cost of the project (very large or very small); do you have the expertise needed for such a project; is there overwhelming support for this project or just a few who feel strongly; is there enough support from the residents to develop enough expertise to run it themselves.
Public improvements (via SAD) are authorized by Public Act 188 of 1954, as amended (MCL 41.721) and can include various projects:
SAD’s can formed for many purposes: roads, lights, etc. But lakes are alive and so only lakes can have a Government Lake Board. Government Lake Boards (NR-EPA Public Act 451) are great!
They offer a lake association member (riparian landowner) a seat a the table and a vote! The other board members have expertise in local water management (ie: drain commissioner) and this board dedicated solely to the health and treatment of your lake! Every meeting is about your lake, it’s needs and services.
Lake boards do not replace the need or role of the lake association, it replaces the township board with members that have more expertise and the board has a singular focus, making for better discussion and faster decisions.
Most GLB members are not paid to attend meetings, but they can be. If needed, the GLB can and should retain an attorney to stay current with legal requirements, guidelines and deadlines. GLB meetings are efficient and open to everyone!