Benton Harbor City Commissioners Call a Special Meeting

One week remains for the citizens of Benton Harbor to gather signatures to force the proposed special assessment to a vote.

Listen:

That's City Commissioner Marcus Muhammad at last night's special commissioners meeting, explaining if ten percent of land owners sign a petition, the assessment can be appealed and voted on by the citizens. The special assessment, financial records, Senate Bill 865 and a new city tax were discussed between Commissioners. Muhammad read part of the Benton Harbor charter regarding special assessment and Emergency Financial Manager Joseph Harris.

Listen:

Commissioners were adamant that getting signatures is a must, because allowing the citizens to vote on the matter of the assessment needs to happen, rather than be over run by, what they call a "dictator." The special assessment will cost $7.50 for every $1,000 of property value that is owned in Benton Harbor.