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Assessor

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1. Who receives the funds from my tax bill?

Besides the City, your tax bill is remitted to Ionia Public Schools, Ionia Intermediate School District, District Library and Ionia County. Details of some of the most often questioned line items on Ionia tax bill are as follows:

SET (State Education Tax) - The State Education Tax Act was one of several components of Proposal A of 1994 that changed the way in which elementary-secondary education is funded in Michigan. The State levies the state education tax statewide at a six-mill rate on all real and tangible personal property not otherwise exempt from the property tax. This millage is distributed to the county treasurer who then forwards it to the State of Michigan.

School 2000 D - School 2006 D (School Debt) - Special elections are held to enable schools to levy millage for such things as school construction or renovation. This line item could be a combination of several elections the school district has had over the years. Please contact the school district for more detailed information on their debt millage. This millage is distributed directly to the school district.

School Supple (School Operating) - This millage is another component of Proposal A of 1994. Under the proposal, a school district can levy 18 mills for school operating purposes. An exempt principal residence is not subject to the levy of school operating millage. For the majority of taxpayers, this line item will be zero as your property is your principal residence and it is exempted from this tax. Businesses, rental properties and people owning multiple properties will pay the school operating millage. This millage is distributed directly to the school district.

2. What do the terms Assessed Value, State Equalized Value and Taxable Value mean on my Notice of Assessment?

A basic knowledge of these items will help you better understand Michigan property tax law.

* Assessed value - the assessed value helps determine market value. Set by the assessor, the Assessed value when multiplied by two will give an approximate market value of the property. The assessor is constitutionally required to set the assessed value at 50% of the usual selling price or True Cash Value of the property.

* State Equalized Value(SEV)- SEV is the Assessed Value that has been adjusted following county and state equalization. The County Board of Commissioners and the Michigan State Tax Commission must review local assessments and adjust (equalize) them if they are above or below the constitutional 50% level of assessment.

* Taxable value - multiplying the Taxable Value by the local millage rate will determine your tax liability. Taxable value increases from year to year by the rate of inflation or 5%, whichever is lower. Transfers of ownership and improvements to the property will increase the Taxable Value more than the rate of inflation.

3. How does the assessor determine my Assessed Value?

To ensure properties are assessed uniformly and at 50% of market value, the assessor uses a two year sales study that is provided by the Ionia County Equalization Department. A sales study is an analysis of the sales price of the property compared to its SEV. Typically, the sales study runs from April 1st to March 31st. The sales are then organized by economic neighborhoods by the assessor. An economic neighborhood can be a single subdivision or a grouping of subdivisions with similar characteristics. If the sales in a certain economic neighborhood indicate an increase or decrease then all of the properties in that economic neighborhood will be changed by what the sales have indicated. This ensures all properties are assessed at 50% of market value as of December 31st.

4. What determines the Taxable Value?

On March 15, 1994 Michigan voters approved the constitutional amendment known as Proposal A. The Taxable Value was created as a part of this legislation. Taxable Value, or the figure which millage would be multiplied against, can only increase each year by the rate of inflation or 5%, whichever is lower. The Taxable Value on the property is said to be "Capped" if the property owner has not had any additions or losses on the property or did not purchase it in the preceding year. The legislators who wrote and put Proposal A on the ballot intended to put a cap on the value of the property so that taxpayers wouldn't be as affected by a robust housing market and a significant increase in valuation. The intention was to tie the increase in valuation to the inflation rate so that it would be more affordable for residents and would benefit those residents who intended to remain at their properties for longer periods of time.

5. Property values in my neighborhood have been decreasing. Will my property valuation be decreasing as well?

Unfortunately, there isn't a yes or no answer to that question. If you've owned your property for a significant amount of time, more than likely your State Equalized Value (SEV) far exceeds your Taxable Value. If this is the case, a decrease in valuation, caused by a cooling real estate market, will be reflected in the SEV. The Taxable Value is required by the Michigan Constitution to increase each year by the rate of inflation or 5%, whichever is lower. In the case of a longtime property owner, the SEV could decrease, while the Taxable Value will increase.

6. Why won't my taxes decrease if my property value is going down?

Proposal A allowed many residents to pay property taxes on less than half of their market value by "capping" the Taxable Value, while still allowing the assessor to determine the market value by adjusting the SEV. This has caused, for many property owners, a great disparity between the SEV figure and the Taxable Value figure. The assessor can reduce the SEV to reflect the change in property value, but if the Taxable Value is still well below the SEV, it will keep increasing until the two figures meet. Taxes are based on Taxable Value; therefore, you will end up with a tax increase.

7. Will my taxes ever go down?

If a property's value decreases each year, the SEV will eventually meet the Taxable Value. The Taxable Value cannot exceed the SEV. When this happens, decreases in SEV will cause decreases in Taxable Value, which will then lower your property tax liability. Due to the gap between the SEV and Taxable Value figures, it would take several years of depressed market conditions to make the SEV and Taxable Value equal. If you happen to be a property owner who purchased a property in the last few years and you have decreasing property value, the SEV and Taxable Value figures could meet sooner than someone who has owned the property for a long period of time.

8. What are some of the disadvantages about the Proposal A legislation?

Unfortunately, there have been a few downfalls. Two big downfalls that we hear regularly are:

- Neighbors paying completely different tax amounts, and;

- Apprehension about moving to new properties because of the fear of a very high tax increase.

9. Can I contest my Assessed Value and Taxable Value?

Every property owner has the right to appeal their assessments. The opportunity, however, only comes once a year and if the opportunity is missed, there is not another opportunity for that year. Your assessment change notice will provide you with the dates and times for the March Board of Review. If you wish to contest your assessments, you must either appear or send your appeal to the March Board of Review. Protest at the March Board of Review is necessary to protect your right to further appeals to the Michigan Tax Tribunal for valuation and exemption appeals. In other words, the Michigan Tax Tribunal will not hear cases that have not first been before the local March Board of Review.

It is important to note that the values set by the assessor are presumed correct. A property owner wishing to appeal the assessment must be prepared to present physical evidence as to why the values should be changed. An example of such evidence would be sales of similar homes that indicate a lower value than the one set by the assessor.

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Boards and Commissions

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1. I am interested in serving on a City Board or Commission. What positions are open and how do I apply?

The City Manager is responsible for accepting letters of interest from residents interested in serving on a City Board of Commission. When vacancies occur or terms expire, the City Manager reviews letters of interest received with the Mayor who, in most instances, is responsible for recommending to the City Council individuals to be considered for appointment. If you are interested, e-mail the City Manager.

2. Where can I find a schedule of when the different City Boards and Commission meet?

Most City Boards and Commissions meet on an as needed basis and do not publish an annual meeting schedule. Those that meet more regularly such as the Planning Commission and Downtown Development Authority, publish an annual schedule. Check the City’s calendar of events for meeting dates.

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City Clerk

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1. When are the polls open and where do I vote on election day?

Voting for all precinct wards will take place from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm at the Ionia Middle School, Watt Auditorium, 438 Union St. (Use Summit Street Entrance.)

2. Is there transportation provided on election day?

The local transportation system, Ionia Dial-A-Ride (616) 527-4000 will provide free rides to the polls on election day upon showing your voter registration card.

3. Will voters need to bring identification on election day?

Every Michigan voter who offers to vote in the polls must comply with the requirement of showing picture identification or signing an affidavit attesting that he or she is not in possession of picture identification.

4. Are the voting precincts handicap accessible?

Yes, the Ionia Middle School, Watt Auditorium, and 438 Union St. (Use Summit Street Entrance) are handicap accessible.

5. I will be absent on election day, can I still vote?

Yes, you can vote by absentee ballot by calling (616) 527-4170 ext. 213 or come to City Hall to obtain an application form to receive an absentee ballot.

6. When is the last day that I can vote an absentee ballot in your office?

The last day you can cast an absentee ballot in our office is the day before an election by 4:00 pm.

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Dial-A-Ride

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1. How much does it cost to ride Dial-A-Ride?

For Ionia Dial-A-Ride fees view information on Fares and Punch Cards.

2. What do I do if I left something on your bus?

We have a lost and found box. Call our office at (616) 527-4000 Ext. 1 or stop by our facility and we'll check to see if we found it!

3. Do you provide door-to-door service?

No, we provide curb to curb service.

4. How many grocery bags can I take on the bus?

Passengers are allowed to carry up to four bags of groceries on the bus. Two can be placed on your lap and two on the floor in between your feet.

5. How far in advance do I need to schedule a ride?

We recommend reserving your ride at least 24 hours in advance, but if that isn't possible at least one hour in advance.

6. Do you have wheelchair lifts on your buses?

Yes, 10 out of our 12 service vehicles are equipped with lifts. When you call for your ride, please let the dispatcher know you need a lift bus.

7. Where can Dial-A-Ride pick me up?

The City of Ionia Dial-A-Ride covers many service areas including City of Ionia, Berlin Township, Ionia Township, Easton Township, and Orange Township. For more information view Dial-A-Ride service areas.

8. Can you transport physically handicapped passengers?

Ionia Dial-A-Ride:

Provides mobility for the growing elderly population by providing transportation to medical appointments, shopping, and recreational needs

Offers convenient curbside service

Has professional and trained drivers in passenger assistance techniques to assist our customers with special needs

Operates a fleet of 12 service vehicles, 10 of which are equipped with wheelchair lifts and comply with all related ADA regulations

Offers priority seating for senior citizens and persons with disabilities

Provides free rides for attendants assisting persons with disabilities

Offers reduced passenger fares for seniors and persons with disabilities (must present Dial-A-Ride eligibility card)

9. What are your business hours?

Monday - Friday, 6:30 am - 6:00 pm and Saturday, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

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Downtown Development Authority

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1. When and where does the DDA Board of Directors meet?

The DDA Board meets at 8:00 am on the third Wednesday of each month at Ionia City Hall, located at 114 N. Kidd St. The public is welcome to attend.

2. Where is the DDA office located?

203 W. Main Street, Ionia, MI. 48846 beside the Ionia Theatre. Hours of operation are 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Telephone: (616) 527-1420

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Finance

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1. Why is my water utility bill so high?

Check for water leaks: faucets, pipes, meter and especially from the toilet tank to the toilet bowl. Any of these leaks can cause your water utility bill to run high.

2. What are the current millage rates?

View the millage rate table.

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Home

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1. Can I have a Yard Sale and put up a sign to advertise it?

Yes. A tradition of summer for many is having a garage or yard sale. Residents are reminded that sales should be held only once or twice per address per summer. Residents are also reminded that a sign may only be placed at the location of a sale (on-premise) and cannot exceed 6 square feet in size or be taller than 3 feet. A sign shall not be erected more than 3 days prior to the sale and must be removed within one day after the sale. Off premise signs are not permitted. Signs that remain for an extended period of time after the sale are removed by City staff and those who have placed the sign(s) may be charged for the cost of the removal. Signs are NOT permitted on Utility poles or City Street Signs.

2. What procedures are followed regarding tall grass/weeds in the City?

City ordinance prevents the owner of any lot or parcel of land in the City from permitting weeds and grass to grow to a height in excess of six inches. City ordinance further permits the City to cut weeds and grass that grow above six inches and charge the property owner the actual cost of having the weeds and grass cut... Read on... General Policy-Mowing...

3. I have a water problem and/or a utility bill question. Who do I contact?

If you are experiencing a water leak, meter leak, rusty water, no water/low pressure or a utility billing question, please click on the utility problem hyperlink below and view the utility page Q & A, before contacting City hall. If you have a "Severe" water problem, contact City Hall at 1-616-527-4170 ext. 210 between the hours of 8:00am - 5:00pm, M-F. After hours, call Central Dispatch at (616) 527-0400 and they will dispatch the appropriate personnel. Utility Problem

4. Can I pay my Property Taxes, Utility bill, City Income Tax by Credit Card?

YES! The City of Ionia has contracted with a secured ONLINE Payment Center called "OFFICIAL PAYMENTS". You can pay your Property Tax(which includes a 3% credit card fee)and/or your Water Utility bill, City Income Tax or other miscellaneous bill(s)generated from the City to you. Also, you can Register for Parks and Recreation Programs and Events! Master Card & Visa are accepted for payment. Or, you can call City Hall, and pay by Credit Card over the telephone. Click on the following link to take you to the Online Bill Payment information page! Online Bill Payment...

5. Can I have an inoperable vehicle parked on my property?

No. City ordinance prohibits outside storage on private property for more than 10 days any vehicle that does not meet the following conditions:

• An engine that runs
  
• Four wheels with four tires that are inflated
  
• A battery capable of starting and operating the vehicle
  
• Current license plates
  
• Otherwise road-worthy

An inoperative vehicle may, however, be stored in a completely enclosed building, such as the owner’s garage. Covering the vehicle with a tarp or other cover is not an acceptable means of storage.

6. When is a Building Permit required?

When you are planning to build any of the following:

• New house
  
• Addition
  
• Garage
  
• Storage shed
  
• Fence
  
• Porch replacement
  
• Swimming pool 24 inches or more deep
  
• Remodeling
  
• Fire damage repair
  
• New sign or sign replacement

7. Where do I get a Building permit?

To obtain a building permit for inside and/or outside the City of Ionia, and within Ionia County, please contact the Ionia County Courthouse at 616-527-5374. More...

8. My garbage container is broken, who can I contact?

Please contact the City of Ionia at 616-527-4170 ext. 0 and provide them with your address. The old container needs to be placed on the street berm on Friday after you call. Your new container will be dropped off and the broken container will be removed.

9. Where do I pay a Parking Ticket?

Payment for parking tickets are received at City Hall-Front office between 8:30am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday unless the office is closed for a Holiday observance. You may also drop your payment into the Night drop box located in front of City hall. Or, you can mail it to the address indicated on the ticket envelope. Read about Parking in Ionia City limits.

10. What can I do about rusty water making my clothes yellow?

We recommend using a product called Iron Out that is available at most retail stores. Please follow the directions on the box. A schedule of hydrant flushing is published in the local newspaper. We recommend you avoid doing laundry on days hydrants in your area are scheduled to be flushed.

11. I have a concern, is there a form I can fill out online?

Yes. The City of Ionia has a form titled "General Inquiry-Concerns", whereas you can fill out the form and submit it electronically for a response from City personnel. Please click on the Inquiry-Concerns form

12. Where do I get an absentee voter's ballot?

An absentee voter's ballot can be obtained by calling the City Clerk at 616-527-4170 ext. 213 or by picking up an application for a ballot at Ionia City Hall located at 114 N. Kidd Street in Ionia.

13. Where do I get my birth certificate or marriage license?

You may obtain these documents at the Ionia County Clerks Office by calling 616-527-5322. More...

14. Where do I get a dog license?

Dog license information can be obtained from the Ionia County Treasurer's office at 616-527-5329. More...

15. Where is the Chamber of Commerce located?

The Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce is located inside the Armory Community Center at 439 W. Main St. To contact the Chamber of Commerce please call 616-527-2560. More...

16. What is the phone number for the Ionia County Courthouse?

The phone number to the Ionia County Courthouse is 616-527-5329. More...

17. What can I do with grass clippings, leaves and small brush?

Yard waste may be disposed of at the City’s compost site located off the end of Apple Tree Drive at the City well field.

18. Am I or others, allowed to park their vehicle in the front yard?

No. City ordinance permits a vehicle or trailer to be parked in the front yard of a property only for loading and unloading purposes or pursuant to a handicap parking permit. The front yard of a property is defined as that part of a lot, other than the driveway, between the curb or street line and the front of the main structure on the lot.

19. Am I allowed to have/build a storage shed on my property?

A reminder that a zoning permit, and in some cases a building permit, is required for the construction of a storage shed. If you are considering to purchase or construct a storage shed, please consult with the City early in the planning process. In addition to complying with size standards, the City’s zoning ordinance also contains setback regulations that must be met.

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Ionia Theatre

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1. What are your movie prices?

For movie prices.. Click here

2. Can I rent the Theatre?

Yes! Please contact Gary Ferguson, Theatre Manager, at 616-527-3860 or theatre.gary@charter.net for rental information.

3. What movies are showing?

For current movie information.. click here

4. Where is the Ionia Theatre located?

The Ionia Theatre is located at 205 W. Main Street, Ionia, MI 48846.

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Mayor and City Council

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1. When and where are City Council meetings held?

City Council meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm, at City Hall, 114 N. Kidd St., Ionia unless rescheduled due to a conflict with a holiday or in instances when there may not be a quorum of the City Council present at the meeting.
City Council Meeting Schedule.

2. Does the Mayor or members of the City Council have an office at City Hall or have office hours?

No. Since the City operates under the Council / Manager form of government, the City Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the City. The Mayor and City Council members may be contacted via the staff directory contained on this site or through City Hall by calling (616) 527-4170.

3. How are the Mayor and City Council members elected?

The Mayor and Council members are elected for four year terms at odd-year elections. The Mayor is elected at large and Council members are elected from wards. There are four wards in the City with two Council members from each ward.

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Parks and Recreation

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1. Can I register online for a program?

Yes! It's easy, convenient, and saves time. Be sure to try it! Register Here....

2. What time is the Armory Community Center gym open to play basketball?

The gymnasium is open for basketball for youths (grades 6th-12th) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 2:45 - 4:45 p.m., no cost. The gymnasium is open for adults on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-10 p.m., cost is $2.00

3. What time of year do you run basketball leagues for youth?

A March Madness basketball program for boys and girls (ages 4-9 yrs) is held on Monday and Wednesday evenings in the month of March.

4. Can I reserve Bertha Brock Park at the Ionia Parks and Recreation office?

No, Bertha Brock Park is operated by the County of Ionia. For information on reserving Bertha Brock Park call (616) 522-7275

5. Is electric available at City parks?

No, the City parks do not offer electrical hookups.

6. Can I rent the rooms/gymnasium in the Armory Community Center?

Yes please click here for rental rates, contract, rules and regulations! Rental Information

7. Can I purchase amusement park tickets at the Parks and Recreation office?

Yes, currently on sale are Cedar Point and Michigan Adventure tickets. Please call (616) 523-1800 for ticket prices.

8. How old does my child have to be to play Fall and Spring Ionia Youth Soccer?

Your child must be age four as of July 31st.

9. Does the City of Ionia handle reservations for the Ionia State Recreation Area?

No, the Ionia State Recreation Area (commonly referred to as Sessions Lake) is operated by the State of Michigan. For information about the State Park call (616) 527-6421.

10. Can I have alcohol for an Armory Community Center rental?

When renting the Armory Community Center for a party or reception you may have beer. The Ionia Parks and Recreation Department requires a certificate of liability insurance insuring the lessee and the City of Ionia. Sale of alcohol is prohibited.

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Public Safety

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1. How do I obtain a Criminal Background check?

Ionia D.P.S. does not do background checks, but they may be done through the Michigan State Police website with the Internet Criminal History Access Tool.

2. Where do I pay a parking ticket?

Parking tickets issued by Ionia D.P.S. are to be paid at Ionia City Hall, 114 N. Kidd St., or they can be put in the drop box in front of City Hall, or they can be mailed. If you wish to contest a parking ticket you must come to Ionia D.P.S. for documentation and procedural instructions.

3. How can I obtain a permit to purchase a hand gun?

If you are a resident of the City of Ionia you may obtain a permit at the Department of Public Safety during regular business hours which are Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. A test and background check will be conducted prior to receiving a Permit to Purchase.

4. How do I obtain an accident report?

A copy of an accident report may be obtained Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm at Ionia D.P.S. There is a $3 charge for each accident report. You may also purchase an accident report online with the Traffic Crash Purchasing System.

5. How do I get a burn permit?

To get a burn permit contact Ionia D.P.S. between the hours of 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Friday, and Ionia County Central Dispatch (616) 527-0400 for after hours and weekends. Burn permits are good for the day requested only and may be denied depending on the environmental conditions (windy, dry, etc.)

6. Where do I call if I need a Police Officer?

If it is an emergency call 911. For non-emergency assistance call 616-527-0400.

7. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?

To get a copy of a police report, you may come to the Ionia D.P.S. and fill out a Freedom of Information request form or mail or fax a request. Following the Freedom of Information Act, the request will be granted or denied within five days of the request date.

8. How can I get a P.B.T. (Preliminary Breath Test)?

Officers will administer P.B.T.s Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm with the exception of Holidays. After hours and weekends will be given at the following times: 7:00 am – 7:15 am, 11:00 am – 11:15 am, 3:00 pm – 3:15 pm, 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm, 11:00 pm – 11:15 pm, and 3:00 am – 3:15 am.

9. What is the I.S.O. (Insurance Services Office) rating?

Effective since May 1, 2006, the City of Ionia has been reclassified as a Class 4 from the previous designation of a Class 6. Ionia and Easton Townships now have a rating of 4 / 8B, down from their previous rating of 6 / 9. These rating improvements help save homeowners on their insurance premiums.

10. How do I check the Sex Offender Registry?

View the Michigan Public Sex Offender Registry

11. How do I get a vehicle out of impound?

The registered owner of the vehicle must come to Ionia D.P.S. and obtain a Vehicle Release Form. A form of picture identification, registration, and proof of insurance for the vehicle must be presented. Vehicles cannot be released from the towing company without the Vehicle Release Form.

12. Do I need a burn permit for a recreational fire?

A burn permit is not required for a recreational burn, but Ionia D.P.S. requests that they be contacted so they are aware of it.

To contact Ionia DPS please call (616) 527-4431.

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Public Works

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1. What should I do if I have a sewer back up?

Contact City Hall at (616) 527-4170 then follow the steps as outlined under more information. More...