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Department of the Assessor

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1. What happens to the value of my property once it transfers ownership?

The purchase of your home may not greatly affect the assessed value of your new property (contrary to popular opinion). The local assessor may not come out and reassess your property after they find out that a transfer has taken place, and your property's assessed value most likely will not automatically become 50% of what you paid for your property. What will happen, however, is still somewhat of a shock for some who are not aware of Proposal A.

Section 211.27 a of the Michigan Compiled Law states: "Upon transfer of ownership of property after 1994, the property's taxable value for the calendar year following the year of the transfer is the property's assessed value of the calendar year following the transfer."

What this means to you is that if you purchase your property this year, with a current assessed value of $53,400, and a taxable value of $48,200, in the year following the transfer you will be paying taxes on the new assessed value, which will include the market adjustment.

That new assessed value will serve as your base for all of the future adjustments on both your assessed and taxable values.

It becomes a matter of "buyer beware," as on several occasions most buyers are not made aware by anyone in their sales transaction that this is going to happen.

Most find themselves in difficult positions when they were led to believe that their property taxes were going to be a far less amount than the amount they are actually billed. This is a process that is mandated by the State Tax Commission. Local assessors must abide by these regulations.

2. What is the Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit (formerly the Homestead Exemption)?

This affidavit allows you to claim an exemption of 18 mills on your school property taxes. For your homestead to be eligible, you must own and occupy it as your legal principal residence on or before May 1st of each year. You may claim an exemption for only one principal residence and for eligible agricultural property. All principal residence affidavits are ultimately filled with the State Tax Commission, who then verifies that each property owner is in fact only claiming 1 Principal Residence Exemption.

3. So how will you benefit from filing a Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit?

Here's an example of what your taxes would be on a property with $50,000 taxable value which did not claim a principal residence exemption, compared to the same property with a principal residence exemption:

Non-Principal Residence

$50,000 Taxable Value
Times 39.58 Principal residence Millage Rate
Comes to $1,979 Total Tax Bill for 1 Year

As you can see from this example, it is very beneficial to file a Principal Residence Affidavit for your principal property!

4. Where do you file a Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit?

A principal residence affidavit should be filed with the local assessor of the city or township in which the property is located. In most cases, the Property Transfer Affidavit and Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit are filed with the assessor at the same time.

5. What if I did own and occupy my residence on or before May 1st, but did not file a principal residence affidavit?

Public Act 74 of 1995 provides for an exemption to be filed by mail or in person at the July or December Board of Review for the year of the claim, or the following year's July or December Board of Review. To petition the Board of Review, you must submit a signed Affidavit for Principal Residence Exemption. A petition to the December or July Board of Review must be made at least 5 days before the date of the Board of Review.

6. I moved to a different home after May 1st; may I claim my new home?

No. Since you did not own and occupy the home before the filing date, you may not file a claim. However, the previous owner may have claimed the property and that exemption remains in effect until December 31st. You may file a claim for your new home before May 1 of the following year by filing a Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit.

7. I own two homes in Michigan. For which home do I claim exemption?

Claim the exemption for the home you occupy as your principal residence.

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Department of the Treasurer

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1. What are our office hours?

Our offices are open 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. If you are unable to come in person during these hours, there is a drop box located in the Police Station lobby which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

2. What is the difference between real and personal property taxes?

Real property is property which is attached, such as land and buildings. Real taxes are assessed on either commercial/industrial or residential property.

Personal property is furniture and fixtures used in a business.

3. Can I charge my taxes on my credit card?

Yes. You may pay in the office or through our third-party processor, Invoice Cloud. Using a credit card requires a fee, which is NOT collected by the city, but by the processor.

4. When are tax bills mailed out?

Tax bills are mailed around or on July 1st and December 1st of every year. If the day falls on a weekend, they are mailed on the Monday following the first. If you have not received your bill by July 15th or December 15th, do not hesitate to call the Treasurer's office. We will gladly reprint one and mail you the copy. However, you are still responsible for paying your taxes by the due date even if you haven't received your bill.

5. Can I defer my Summer taxes?

Summer taxes can only be deferred under these circumstances:

Until September 15th, summer taxes can be deferred for payment until the last day of February the following year for Principle Residence homeowners who meet the following qualifications:

Age 62 or older
or
Paraplegic or Quadriplegic or Blind
or
Totally or Permanently Disabled (bring 1040A - schedule 2 or 1040 - schedule R)
or
Eligible Serviceperson/Veteran (and surviving spouse)
and
Household Income (including Social Security/Pension, etc.) does not exceed $35,000.

To obtain a deferment, please bring the following documents to the Treasury Department:

• Your latest Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit (Form MI-1040-CR must be filed)
• Your Medicare or VA card
• Your Summer Tax Bill

Download Michigan Summer Deferment Form (PDF)

6. Can I defer my Winter taxes?

To defer winter property taxes, the taxpayer must meet the following criteria:

• Must have household income of $35,000 or less - except for eligible service person, veterans or their widows, who are limited to household incomes of $7,500 or less
• Must be one of the following: 62 years or older; a blind person; a paraplegic or quadriplegic; an eligible service person, eligible veteran or eligible widow or widower
• Must file a Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit claim signed and dated by February 14 (must present a copy of the front and back of the form when paying taxes at the Genesee County Treasurer's office)
• Must have either the State of Michigan refund check issued after March 1 or a copy of the check when paying taxes at the Genesee County Treasurer's office
• Must have copies of the tax bills

If all the above criteria are met, Genesee County will waive interest and penalties until April 30. Taxes must be paid in full. If you have any questions, please contact the Genesee County Treasurer's Office at 810-257-3556.

7. How can I receive a credit or have my property taxes reduced?

The credits available do not originate from the City. The State of Michigan has a homestead property tax credit that can be calculated annually as part of the income tax filing. In addition, a separate calculation is available for senior citizens for their principal residence taxes. More information on these credits can be obtained from the website www.treas.state.mi.us or by calling 800-482-7000. Information regarding principal residence exemptions and poverty exemptions are available from the City Assessor's department at 810-629-2261.

8. My tax bill has someone else's name on it, what should I do?

First, make sure it is your tax bill by checking the permanent parcel number and legal description. If it is your bill, most likely there has been a recent ownership change and the taxpayer information has not been updated. If this is the case, you may pay on the bill you received. Please note, it is the taxpayer's responsibility to pay by the due date.

9. Where can I pay my taxes and what payment options are available?

Where

• At our office: City Hall is located at 301 S Leroy Street
• Mail: Please include the tax bill stub and note parcel number on your check. Do not send cash!
• Drop box: There is a drop box in the Police Station lobby, which is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Payment Options

• Cash: Only at City Hall
• Check/Money Order: City Hall, Mail or Drop Box
• Credit Cards: Through our processor, Invoice Cloud.

10. I did not receive a tax bill: can you waive penalty and interest?

No. The Treasurer cannot waive penalties and interest. The State holds that the taxpayer is responsible to know what taxes are and to pay them on time.

11. If I can't pay my tax bill on time, will it affect my credit rating?

No, the City does not report anything concerning your payment habits to the Credit Bureaus.

12. What if I can't pay the tax bill when it is due?

You may make a partial payment by paying the line items from the taxing jurisdictions on your tax bill up until the due date without penalty.

13. If I can't pay my Summer tax bill by the due date, what is the penalty and how long can I pay at the City?

The penalty is 4% if paid before the last day of February. After March 1st, the taxes are the responsibility of Genesee County for collection and will need to be paid at the Genesee County Administration building. Be sure to call the Genesee County Treasurer at 810-257-3054 for updated penalties and interest and payment options.

14. The taxable value or Principle Residence exemption for my property is being corrected at the board of review, should I wait for the corrected bill before paying?

No. The bill received is due and payable by the due date and in the amount on the bill.

If the change to your account by the Board of Review is necessary, it will be processed by the Treasurer's office within 30 days of receipt of the final report of the adjustment from the Board. Until we receive a valid change to an account, the original bill remains as stated. Our office cannot adjust any accounts prior to receiving authorization from the Board of Review.

If the change requires a refund due to the overpayment of tax, it will generally be processed within 30 days of the adjustment to your account. Please note that in the case of a Principle Residence exemption adjustment, we are required to issue the refund to the taxpayer qualifying for the exemption, not to the one who may have paid the tax.

15. Why can't I pay my taxes at City Hall after the last day of February?

The City of Fenton has to close the tax books on the last day of February. Genesee County buys the outstanding real property tax from us as of the last day of February. All real property tax inquiries after March 1 should be made to Genesee County at 810-257-3054. We have no record of what is paid once the taxes are sent to Genesee County. Personal property is maintained at the City level. Please call our office for updated tax with penalties and interest amount at 810-629-2261.

16. My taxes are too high, how can I reduce my taxes?

The first thing you should do is talk to the Assessor about the valuation on your property. You can also check the appraisal records at City Hall to make sure all components of the property are correct.

17. What is the State Education Tax (SET)?

The State Education Tax (SET) is a statewide tax that supports all public schools in Michigan. The current rate is 6 mills. This tax is required to be paid in the summer. The SET is levied on all property types (residential, industrial, personal, etc.) in the State of Michigan.

18. What is a mill?

A mill is $1 per $1,000 of the taxable value of the property.

19. I do not have children in school. Is there a property tax exemption for this?

No. All residents pay school taxes whether they have children in school or not. However, residents who own and occupy as their principal residence pay a lower school tax rate.

20. My tax bill shows more than just city taxes. Why is that?

The City also collects taxes for our schools, Mott Community College, Genesee County, Bishop Airport, Southern Lakes Parks and Recreation, Genesee Intermediate Schools, Mass Transportation Authority, and where applicable, Oakland County and Oakland Schools.

21. What is revenue sharing and how does Fenton benefit?

Under the Revenue Sharing program, sales taxes collected by the State of Michigan are distributed to local governments. 

22. Who is the Treasurer?

Jon Satkowiak has been the Fenton Treasurer since August of 2018. Prior to becoming Treasurer, he had served as the Deputy Treasurer since March 2016. He graduated from Baker College with a Bachelor of Business Administration. He is a member of the Michigan Government Finance Officers Association, as well as the Government Finance Officers Administration.

23. Can I get a discount for paying my taxes early?

No, there are no discounts for early payment.

24. I heard City employees don’t pay taxes. Is this true?

This is completely untrue. All government employees (whether City, County, State or Federal) are subject to all taxes just like everyone else.

25. Does all this money go to the City?

Though the City collects taxes, not all the money goes to the City. If you look at the breakdown provided on your tax bill, you will see which units of government get a share of your taxes. The County and school districts receive a larger portion of your property taxes than the City. Also, special millages may be levied for bonded debts, special assessments, etc.

26. How do I claim a poverty exemption?

Please contact the Assessor at 810-629-2261 for this information. Very detailed instructions must be followed in order to be granted a poverty exemption. Although the Assessor will help you understand the paperwork, the burden lies on you for completion of that paperwork and presentation before the Board of Review.

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Fire Department

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1. When are consumer fireworks permitted?

See the:

2022 Consumer Fireworks Permitted Dates (PDF)

2023 Consumer Fireworks Permitted Dates (PDF).

2. What is my Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating?

Currently, the city ISO rating is a class 3. The department recommends you contact your insurance company to make sure this is reflected in your premiums. A lower number means you pay less insurance.

3. I live just outside of the City -- Why is my ISO rating different from the City’s?

Your Insurance Service Offices rating is based on many factors, which are hard to explain in a short space. It is dependant on whether each city or township has its own fire department, response times, water system infrastructure such as hydrants, number of people on the department and the equipment you carry on the trucks. There are so many variables. You can go to the Tyrone Township's website for more information on your ISO rating if you live in Tyrone Township.

4. Where is my closest fire hydrant?

Your best bet is to walk around your neighborhood and look for the nearest hydrant.

5. Do you offer CPR Classes?

The department does not sponsor any CPR classes through the city. We do have a few members of the department that will provide this service on their own time who can teach these classes. We also have contacts for other people in the immediate area who can teach classes. Call the fire station at 810-629-8595 and leave a message for the medical officer with your name and number so they may call you back.

6. Do you offer instructions on how to properly install a car seat?

No, we do not, but there are classes and child safety seat checks that you can attend in the area. Please contact the receptionist at the hospital you use for more information on classes, or use the internet and go to SafeKids.com.

7. How often should I change my smoke alarm battery?

You should replace you smoke detector batteries once a year at least and/or follow your manufacturer's instructions for replacement. Usually, in the spring or fall when we set our clocks back, we remind you to change your batteries. October is Fire Prevention Month, and this is also a reminder to change your batteries in the fall. You should test your smoke detector once a month to make sure it is working properly. If your detector is set off constantly by cooking, it will wear out the batteries sooner and you will need to replace them sooner. A chirping sound or constant beep usually indicates low batteries, but models differ from one another. The bottom line is that you have one and change the battery at least once a year. More information can be found at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

8. How often should I replace my smoke alarm?

Each manufacturer is different for these products. It has been recommended in the past that every 10 years you should replace your smoke detector. In recent years some manufacturers have recommended every 6 years. Please refer to your manual that came with your smoke detector or visit the company's website. More information can be found at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

9. Can I bring my child in to see the fire trucks?

The department's Fire Prevention Officer schedules all organized station tours and fire prevention activities at local schools. If you happen to be walking by the station and see cars in the parking lot or the bay doors up you can stop in and see if we have someone available to give you a tour. We are happy to accommodate you in most cases except if we are in the middle of a training exercise or an emergency situation where we can't spare anyone. If this is the case, we will take your name and telephone number and give you a call and schedule a time with you.

10. Do I need to call the fire station before I burn?

Residents of Tyrone Township should refer to the Tyrone Township website. City of Fenton residents are ownly allowed to have a recreational fire. No permit is needed but you must follow the rules. 

11. Can I have a campfire?

Yes, provided you follow the rules: please see the Ordinance Regarding Open Burning (PDF). Residents of Tyrone Township must obtain burn permits from the Tyrone Township offices. For current regulations please consult Tyrone Township. In the City of Fenton, you are allowed to do certain things with an outdoor fire. Please see the Ordinance Regarding Open Burning (PDF).

12. Does the fire department fill swimming pools?

The department does not fill swimming pools. There are pool companies in the area with large tanker trucks that can do this for you. We will sometimes fill a dunk tank that is used at a local event where the fire department participates in that event to explain fire prevention to children. These types of events need to be pre-approved by the Fire Chief.

13. I have some stuffed animals -- Can the fire department use them?

The department carries on its rescue truck a small variety of stuffed animals for children involved in car accidents. We give them away to help ease a child's mind when unfortunate things happen. The police department also uses stuffed animals in tough situations as well, to help calm a child. While we do need to keep stuffed animals on hand, please contact either the Fire Chief or Police Chief before dropping off stuffed animals to determine if the supply is low or not. We do not have the storage room to stockpile them. All stuffed animals should be in good condition and clean, no rips or tears. Thank you to those who have donated them in the past; they help bring a smile to a child's face.

14. What type of smoke alarm/carbon monoxide detector does the Fire Department recommend?

The department does not recommend or endorse any particular brand or model of smoke detector or carbon monoxide detector. There are many different brands and models on the market today, and they vary in cost. The goal is to have at least one working detector on each level of the home and outside every sleeping area. You can find recommendations on smoke detectors, along with guidance on how and where to install them at the National Fire Protection Association website.

15. Do you accept hazardous materials (batteries, mercury, etc.)?

The fire department does not accept any of these things. Each community in our surrounding area usually sponsors a hazardous materials drop-off day each year where you can take old paint, oil, etc. to a drop-off location for proper disposal. Contact your local governing body and ask about hazardous waste drop-off days and locations.

16. How do I know which fire department will respond to my address?

All residents within the City of Fenton city limits are served by the fire station at 205 E. Caroline St. Residents of Tyrone Township should view this map that shows which of the three fire departments that serve the township cover your address. 

17. Are you hiring? How can I become a firefighter?

The fire department is always seeking qualified applicants that can help the community. We are particularly in need and looking for daytime firefighters. Learn more about the requirements and fill out an application to join the department.

18. How far is the fire station from my house? How long will it take the fire department to respond to my emergency?

Our fire station is located at 205 E Caroline Street in the City of Fenton, located centrally in the downtown area. From here we respond to all calls, including those in Tyrone Township. Response times vary depending on personnel available at the time, time of day, traffic and weather conditions, etc. We strive to get to your call for help as quickly and safely as possible to help you out.

19. Why are the Severe Weather Sirens going off?

The Severe Weather sirens sound for testing purposes on the first Saturday of the month at 1 pm from March through November. They also sound when severe weather is present in the immediate area, which means Take cover. Testing does not occur when severe weather is present, to avoid confusion. When the sirens sound it is a 3-minute blast. There is no all-clear signal. The siren will continue on 3-minute intervals as long as there is a threat from severe weather.

20. Where is the fire station located? Are you the one on Owen Road?

Our fire station is located at 205 E Caroline Street in the City of Fenton, located centrally in the downtown area. We are located across from the Fenton Library in the area of The State Bank near the intersection of N Leroy and Silver Lake Roads.

21. I live in an apartment complex. Is it ok to have my barbecue grill on the balcony?

No, the law does not allow this and too many fires that cause major damage start on balconies of apartment complexes. Because there is a higher risk to loss of life in a multiple occupancy structure like this, grills, hibachis and other such outdoor cooking is strictly prohibited. For more information, see this flyer about apartment grilling.

22. My carbon monoxide alarm is sounding. What should I do?

• Call 911 and report what is happening.
• Immediately leave your residence and wait for the fire department to arrive. 
• Once there, we will send in a team with special monitoring equipment that will take air readings and determine the next appropriate action.

For more information on carbon monoxide, including the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go to the National Fire Protection Association's carbon monoxide page.

23. I had a fire at my residence last week. How do I go about getting a copy of the Incident Report for my insurance company? Is there a charge for this report?

Call the station (629-8595) during normal business hours to request a copy of a report. Typically there is not a charge for this service; however, in certain cases, there may be.

24. Can you tell me if the Fire Department has any records regarding environmental issues at this particular location? (Underground gas tanks, spills, etc.)

The fire department does not keep any records on file regarding environmental issues with particular sites. You can contact the city building department, Genesee County Drain Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for issues regarding this information.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

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Police Department

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1. How do I get my fingerprints taken?

Our department can assist with ink fingerprints only. If you are a resident of the City of Fenton, there is no charge for this service. If you reside outside the City limits there is a $20 charge, payable in cash or check. We are open 24/7 and appointments are not necessary.

If you need digital fingerprints you will need to check for a Livescan  location near you. Most of these locations do require an appointment.

2. How can I get a Concealed Weapons Permit?

The Concealed Pistol Application and instructions can be found on the Michigan State Police Firearms page.

3. How do I purchase/register a handgun?

If you reside within the City limits and have a Concealed Pistol License, you must turn in your Pistol Sales Record (RI-060) to the Fenton Police Department.

If you reside within the City limits and bought a pistol from a licensed dealer, you may turn in your Pistol Sales Record (RI-060) to the Fenton Police Department.

If you need a License to Purchase from a private seller and are a City resident, there is no charge for this service. For residents outside the City of Fenton there will be a $10 notary fee. Any License to Purchase issued by the Fenton Police Department must be returned to the Fenton Police Department upon completion.

ALL  firearm records must be turned in within TEN days of purchase.

4. How do I get my vehicle out of impound?

Bring your picture identification, proof of insurance and proof of ownership (title) to the Fenton Police Department. Vehicles will only be released to the owner. A release will be issued and the vehicle can then be picked up.

5. How do I get a copy of my accident report?

Traffic crash reports are typically available 2-5 business days after the report was made. Involved parties can pick up a copy in person at the Police Department for $10.00 (cash or check) or download it directly from the CLEMIS website.