State Reps. Richard Hammel (D-Mt. Morris Township) and David Robertson (R-Grand Blanc Township), have introduced bipartisan legislation that strengthens local control by giving county boards of commissioners the option to take over the duties of their road commissions.
The bills apply to counties in which road commissions are appointed, not elected. It does not require that county boards assume the duties of the road commission; rather, it empowers county leaders to decide what's best for their communities.
"This reform has three main benefits," said Hammel, who formerly served as chairman of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners. "First, it increases accountability by giving county boards the authority to change road commissions if they prove to be unresponsive and mismanaged. Second, it puts control in the hands of the people who understand the situation best – local residents. And third, it lets communities save money by consolidating the duties of taking care of our local roads."The operation of the Genesee Road Commission has troubled county commissioners for years, with project delays, mismanagement and lack of responsiveness hampering effective service to residents. Hammel said communities across the state, not just Genesee County, will benefit, however.
"These changes are urgently needed to safeguard millions of taxpayer dollars as well as our access to safe, efficient roads that enable us to go to work and raise our families," Hammel said.Robertson, a former Genesee County commissioner, said it seemed natural for him and Hammel to work together to improve Genesee County. Increasing accountability for road commissions has long been a priority that both legislators.
"Accountability needs to be the priority in all forms of government," Robertson said. "This legislation is designed to give local county boards one more tool to better serve their residents."The road commission reform bills been referred to the Intergovernmental, Urban and Regional Affairs Committee for consideration