Residents press commission over Bay City Bridge Partners billing and customer service

Several members of the public used the meeting’s public comment period to press the commission over complaints about Bay City Bridge Partners, the private operator that manages tolling on the Liberty and Independence bridges. Speakers said the company has sent bills to people who never visited Bay City, charged late fees and lacked responsiveness to errors.

Jeff Reed spoke briefly and attempted to use an automated voice to present his comments; the chair and clerk clarified the commission’s expectation that speakers present their own remarks and said staff would research whether non‑human voices should be allowed for public comment. The body restarted the speaker’s time and, after discussion, allowed two additional minutes by roll call (6 yes, 1 no).

A longer comment — read aloud from a column by Dave Clark, editor of the Daily News — criticized the public‑private arrangement, saying residents have paid $2 to $5 per crossing with or without a transponder since tolling began on Liberty Bridge in June 2023 and Independence Bridge on Jan. 1, 2025. Clark’s prepared remarks alleged recurring billing errors that have affected residents across Michigan and urged Bay City officials to explore legal and financial options to end the partnership if the company cannot provide transparent, accountable service.

Commissioners acknowledged the complaints and noted Bridge Partners has not regularly sent representatives to commission meetings; several commissioners said they have asked the city manager to request updates. The commission did not take formal action on the issue during the meeting but said staff would research the matter and consider next steps.