MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Meridian Township residents could see an increase in their taxes if a millage for police and fire protection passes on the August ballot.

The millage for 1.438 mils and is designed to eliminate the pension debt associated with the police and fire departments over the next ten years and to provide funds for police and fire equipment and employees.

If the millage is passed about two police officers and two firefighters could be added to the departments.

The Fire Department also hopes to purchase a new one million dollar ladder truck to replace their current eighteen-year-old ladder truck.

Residents expressed support for the pension portion of the millage.

"Personally I'm in support and strongly support the portion of the millage that's used to eliminate the pension liability debt," said Neil Bowlby, a Haslett resident.

"I believe a portion of the millage is necessary, the portion for the pension liability and medical costs with police and fire retirement," said Leonard Provencher, a Haslett resident.

Both residents say they will need time to do more research before they decide if they will support the August Millage.

The Township Board chose to keep the millage as one rather then separating it into separate proposals, one for the pension liability fund, and one for police and fire equipment and officers.

"They're all under the same umbrella which is police and fire services, it's not for additional department of public works employees or equipment, it's all for police and fire," said Phil Deschaine, a Trustee for the Meridian Township Board.

If the millage passes it won't need to be renewed. However, if it does not pass budget cuts will need to happen.