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Spring Grove asks town attorney to explore a levy after dispute over Richmond fire contract calculations
Summary
The board discussed the proposed 2026 fire contract with the City of Richmond, questioned the city’s calculation method and asked attorney AJ Sickmann to explore implementing a levy to fund fire services; Planning Commissioner Jeff Holthouse will raise calculation limits with Richmond’s mayor.
The Spring Grove Town Board on Nov. 11 discussed the proposed 2026 fire contract from the City of Richmond and asked the town attorney to explore options, including a dedicated levy, to ensure equitable payment for fire services.
Clerk‑Treasurer Jenney Holthouse pointed out the legal notices for tax rates show Spring Grove and Richmond proper have zero tax collected for Fire & EMS. Board members said Richmond adjusted Wayne Township’s fire contract to reflect the levy amount the city will collect, which reduced the contract amount on Richmond’s spreadsheet. Board members said the resulting calculation appeared inequitable to Spring Grove.
Town attorney AJ Sickmann told the board he has previously been advised that fire service would continue even without a contract, but the board agreed that some payment should be made and asked Sickmann to investigate legal options for a levy or other mechanisms to make the calculation more equitable.
Board member Annemarie Chasteen will compile information on Spring Grove’s exempt versus non‑exempt properties compared with Richmond and Wayne Township. Planning Commissioner Jeff Holthouse volunteered to speak with Richmond Mayor Ron Oler about the spreadsheet calculations and to seek a cap on annual increases.
The board did not take a formal vote on the contract at the Nov. 11 meeting; members asked staff and counsel to report back with options and information for a future decision.
