Sanilac County administrator flags possible state revenue‑sharing cut, seeks clarity

Sanilac County Administrator Nathan told the Board of Commissioners on Sept. 2 that he had received an urgent email claiming an ‘‘almost $35,000,000’’ reduction in county revenue sharing in the state House proposed budget and urged the board to watch for further developments.

"There was, obviously, some emails coming around from Mac in regards to the house proposed budget, a potential cut or a almost $35,000,000 cut to county revenue sharing," Nathan said, and added that he had spoken with Representative Alexander, who “said that there was not a cut to county revenue sharing in the house proposed budget.” Nathan said he had sent Representative Alexander the email and expected follow‑up while the county seeks to confirm whether the notice reflects an actual proposal or a circulation error.

Why it matters: county revenue sharing funds operating and reimbursable costs for local services. Nathan warned that if the state budget is delayed or changed, the county might receive reimbursements later than usual, possibly shifting receipts from October into November or December and affecting cash flow.

Nathan described next steps: the county has contacted the representative and will continue to investigate the source of the email and advise commissioners if further action (such as advocacy or budgeting adjustments) is needed. Chair John Black asked staff to keep the board informed of any substantive updates.

Public and board context: a member of the public also expressed worry about a 12 percent figure heard on the radio and asked the board to monitor and advocate against cuts. Nathan and commissioners said they would watch for clarifying information and notify the board if corrective action is required.