Dexter Township Puts in Place an Emergency Election Contingency Fund

With the August and November elections on the horizon, the Dexter Township Board approved putting in place a Legal Defense Fund for Elections.

The township board discussed and approved the measure at its July 21 meeting. It was brought forth by township supervisor Lonnie Scott and township clerk Michelle Stamboulellis, who together put a report to the board about the item.

Their report opened with the purpose of this fund:

“To ensure the timely protection of Dexter Township election workers and Township staff during the administration of elections, the Township Board authorizes a limited exception to its General Expenditure Policy.”

The rest of their report states:

“Notwithstanding the Township’s General Expenditure Policy, which authorizes the Executive Committee to approve expenditures of up to $5,000, the Executive Committee is authorized to approve expenditures of up to $50,000 for election-related legal services and associated legal expenses when necessary to protect Township election workers, election officials, and Township staff in connection with the conduct or administration of an election.

This authority:

• Applies only to legal services and legal expenses directly related to the administration of elections or legal actions arising from the administration of elections.

• May be exercised only when prompt action is necessary to protect Township personnel or ensure the lawful administration of elections.

• Constitutes a limited exception to the Township’s General Expenditure Policy and does not modify that policy for any other purpose or circumstance.

• Applies only during the conduct of elections, including reasonable pre-election preparation, Election Day activities, post-election canvassing, recounts, and election-related litigation.

Any expenditures authorized under this exception shall be reported to the Township Board at its next regular meeting and documented in accordance with the Township’s financial policies.

This exception starts upon passage by the board and shall remain in effect unless amended or rescinded by action of the Township Board.”

The Sun Times News followed up with township supervisor Lonnie Scott to ask about this decision.

Scott said the policy was established as a proactive planning measure in light of the heightened attention surrounding elections both across the country and here in Michigan. He said as with any critical public service, “it is important that we are prepared to respond to unforeseen circumstances should they arise.”

“The contingency fund is intended to provide flexibility to address unexpected election-related legal needs, if necessary, to help ensure the election process continues without interruption,” Scott said. “Our priority remains supporting the Clerk’s Office in conducting safe, secure, and accessible elections so that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot with confidence and without disruption or fear.”

He said they “believe planning ahead is simply part of responsible governance, and we hope these funds will never need to be used.”