The city of Grand Blanc will start its own fire department later this year.
Beginning July 25, the city will provide services to its residents, a departure from a decades-long partnership with Grand Blanc Township.
“Our primary concern when making this decision is the City’s safety and protection with care and respect,” reads a statement issued Wednesday, April 10 after the council’s vote to approve the move.
The move comes after township officials decided to end its joint relationship with the city for fire services after eight decades over a disagreement on the amount contributed by each side.
Township Supervisor Scott Bennett previously said residents in the municipality have paid approximately 84 percent of the costs for the department that spans both communities, while the city residents pay the remaining 16 percent.