The property tax historically provides more dollars to local government than what is collected by the state with a combination of income and sales tax. Every dollar of the property tax remains in the local area and is used to fund local government. The taxing authority determines the amount of property tax to be collected through budgets and tax levies.
Taxpayers also have a responsibility in the process.
First, to monitor the taxing authorities spending policy by attending budget hearings and providing input. Second is to monitor the assessing authority policy and accuracy in apportioning the burden. This is accomplished by comparison of one's assessed value to other properties with similar value and filing a complaint for the review of value when an error or, inequities exist. The assessor's office spends a great deal of time and effort monitoring all aspects of the township economic development. This includes tracking building permits, maintaining records of ownership and tax liability.