Rich Spitzer, Saginaw County Commissioner, District 3, shares his insights on budget challenges,...
Discover seven practical ways residents can actively participate in Saginaw County government and help shape their community's future.
Many people want to make a difference in their communities but aren’t sure where to start. Local government plays a critical role in shaping policies, funding public services, and addressing community needs. However, public participation in local decision-making is often low, leaving key choices in the hands of a small group of officials.
Getting involved doesn’t require running for office—it can be as simple as attending meetings, joining advisory boards, or providing feedback on important issues. Residents can influence everything from taxation and public safety to economic development and infrastructure improvements by actively participating in local government.
This guide outlines seven practical ways residents can engage with Saginaw County's local government and help shape the community's future.
1. Attend County Commission Meetings & Speak During Public Comment
Saginaw County Commission meetings are open to the public, and each session includes a public comment period where residents can voice concerns, ask questions, or provide feedback.
How to participate:
- Check the meeting schedule and agenda (published a week in advance)
- Identify topics of interest, such as budget decisions or millages
- Attend the meeting in person or virtually (if available)
- Speak during public comment to share thoughts or concerns
Where to find meeting schedules: Visit the Saginaw County website for upcoming meetings, agendas, and details.
2. Join a County Board or Committee
Saginaw County has over 30 advisory boards and committees that help shape policies, services, and funding decisions. Many of these welcome public participation and allow citizens to directly influence county operations.
Some key committees include:
- Health & Mental Health Board – Advocates for better healthcare services
- Economic Development Committee – Supports business growth and job creation
- Parks & Recreation Board – Oversees public spaces and recreational programs
- Road Commission – Advises on transportation and infrastructure projects
- Zoo & Museum Boards – Helps manage and improve these community resources
How to join:
- Visit the Saginaw County website to see open positions
- Fill out an application to serve on a board
- Attend a few meetings to understand the committee’s role
- Apply when a position opens
Find openings and apply here: Saginaw County Board & Commissions
3. Contact Your County Commissioner Directly
Every county commissioner has a public email address where residents can send concerns, ask questions, or provide suggestions.
How to reach out effectively:
- Be clear and specific about concerns (e.g., "I’d like to see more funding for mental health services")
- Offer solutions or ideas rather than just complaints
- Request a response or follow-up meeting if necessary
Find your commissioner and contact information: Saginaw County Commissioners
4. Advocate for Causes You Care About
Residents can proactively shape county policies, even if they are not serving on a board. They can:
- Write emails or letters to commissioners and department heads
- Organize petitions to push for policy changes
- Attend public hearings on important issues like budgeting and new developments
- Speak to local media to raise awareness
5. Stay Informed & Vote on Local Millages
Many of the county’s budget increases come from voter-approved millages. Rich stressed that residents should:
- Understand what each millage funds before voting
- Attend informational sessions or read county budget reports
- Consider the long-term tax impact of multiple millages
Where to find voting and millage information:
6. Support Local Economic Growth
Expanding the tax base through business and housing development is key to funding public services without raising taxes.
Ways to help grow Saginaw’s economy:
- Shop local and support small businesses
- Encourage new businesses to open by supporting economic initiatives
- Join business and development discussions (e.g., Saginaw Future programs)
- Engage in workforce development programs that help residents secure higher-paying jobs
7. Participate in City & Township Initiatives
Saginaw County is made up of multiple townships and cities, each with its own local government and community programs.
- Many neighborhood associations, township boards, and city councils hold public meetings.
- If you live in a township, attend local board meetings to influence decisions that affect property taxes and services.
Find your township’s government site.
