In response to a declining population and its impact on state funding, the Village of St. Joseph is moving forward with a new policy to offer voluntary annexation to neighboring residential parcels. Mayor Jim Page announced at the June 24th Board meeting that the initiative is aimed at modestly growing the village and keeping local tax dollars within the community.

Mayor Page explained that the village receives state funds based on population, and recent decreases have resulted in less revenue. By inviting property owners adjacent to the village limits to annex voluntarily, the village hopes to reverse this trend and strengthen its financial position.

Currently, revenue from sources such as Motor Fuel Tax and income tax generated by these properties is directed to the State and County. By joining the village, these funds would instead support local streets, law enforcement, and public parks.

Policy Details and Resident Impact

• Invitation to Annex: Letters will be sent to 35 residential property owners neighboring the village, inviting them to consider annexation.
• Financial Incentives: While annexation would typically result in a small property tax increase, the village plans to rebate this increase for as long as the current owners retain their property, ensuring no immediate tax hike.
• Expanded Services: Newly annexed residents would gain access to village services such as brush pickup.
• Civic Participation: Once annexed, residents would be eligible to vote in village elections and run for positions such as mayor or trustee, as confirmed by both the mayor and the village attorney.
• Road Maintenance: Questions about snow removal were addressed, clarifying that roads would only become the village’s responsibility if both sides of the street are annexed; otherwise, maintenance remains with the township.

An informational meeting is scheduled on July 22 at 7 p.m. at the St. Joseph Municipal Building to review the details of voluntary annexation and address questions from affected residents.