(La Porte County, IN) - No decision was made last night on a proposed government merger locally. The merger is proposed between Center, Springfield and New Durham townships.

 

During a public hearing last night at the Springfield Township Fire Department, board members from each township chose not to vote.  The dozens of people who turned out wanted the township officials to take more time to consider the proposal before deciding the matter.  "We listened to the residents," said Center Township Trustee Lisa Pierzakowski. 

 

The merger is being looked at to reduce costs in response to projected revenue declines from statewide property tax reform and avoid any mandates to merge that might come from the state.  Pierzakowski said a vote by each of the township boards must occur before the end of the year or the proposal under state law cannot be considered again until 2027.