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THOMAS TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT 8215 SHIELDS DR SAGINAW MI 48609 989-781-1300 989-781-6059 fax |
RESIDENT HANDBOOK
A Message from
the Chief:
The officers and staff of the Thomas Township Police Department wish to
thank you for
picking up a copy of this “Resident’s Handbook”. We hope that this guide
to police and
other services offered on a local, state or federal basis will be
helpful in assisting
you when you have questions about who to contact and what services are
available. Through
the diligence of staff members Barbara Honsinger and R. Dan Dowis,
numerous items and
issues, many of them non-police in nature, are covered for your
convenience.
With the increase in the number of subdivisions, residents and
businesses, the face of
Thomas Township has changed dramatically over the last ten to fifteen
years. These changes
throughout the community have also brought with it many challenges
associated with growth.
The police department would like to remind everyone that fighting crime
is a community
effort. Each resident of the township is the eyes and ears of their
police department and
is responsible for reporting violations of law and suspicious
activity. Many times we hear
of suspicious activity that people felt uncomfortable reporting that
turns out to have been
a crime being committed or a prelude to a crime. With timely
notification we may have been
able to prevent or catch a crime in progress. Our philosophy is that we
would rather check
a hundred situations and find everything to be all right than to not get
a call on the one
that is a preventable crime. Please Call Us!
Again, we hope you find this handbook useful and informative.
Sincerely,
Steven D. Kocsis
Chief of Police
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Police, Fire, Medical Emergency…………………………………9-1-1
Saginaw Central Dispatch Non-Emergency (landline)..……….311 or 797-4580
(cell phone)……..............797-4580
Thomas Township Police Department………….………...............….781-1300
Thomas Township Fire Department…………….…………...............781-4141
Mobile Medical Response (Ambulance)………….……............……758-2900
Covenant Health Care Center…………………….……............…...583-6000
St. Mary’s Medical Center………………………….….........……..776-8000
VA Medical Center….……………………………….........……….497-2500
Poison Control Center……………………………............….1-800-764-7661
Consumers Energy Gas & Electric
Emergencies......................1-800-477-5050
Department of Natural Resources (Bay City)…….……..........……...684-9141
Michigan Secretary of State ………………………...........…1-888-767-6424
Saginaw County Sheriffs Department………………..............….…..790-5400
Michigan State Police - Bridgeport Post………..............……….…..777-3700
Saginaw County Mosquito Abatement…………….............….…….755-5751
WEBSITES
The following websites have been provided so residents can contact major
government
agencies and services via computer. We realize, however, not all
residents of the
Township own or have access to a computer. Therefore, we have included a
telephone
number with each website.
Thomas Township: 1-989-781-0150
www.thomastwp.org
Saginaw County: 1-989-790-5200
www.saginawcounty.com
Consumers Energy: 1-800-477-5050
www.consumersenergy.com
State of Michigan: 1-517-373-3400
www.michigan.gov
Michigan Highway Safety Planning: 1-517-332-2521
www.ohsp.state.mi.us
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: 1-888-327-4236
www.nhtsa.dot.gov
Michigan Department of Natural Resources: 1-517-373-2329
www.michigan.gov/dnr
U.S. Consumers Affairs Department: 1-877-382-4357
www.consumer.gov/idtheft/
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1-702-274-3900
www.missingkids.org HOTLINE: 1-800-843-5678
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: 1-301-504-6816
www.cpsc.gov HOTLINE: 1-800-638-2772
America’s Most Wanted: 1-800-274-6388
www.fugitivehunter.org
U.S Government Printing Office, Pueblo, CO.: 1-888-293-6498
www.gpo.gov
GENERAL INFORMATION
The information contained in this website is listed by township
department and the problems
or services you may encounter or need. Each section describes a typical
problem or need
and then lists the appropriate township department or agency to contact,
as well as the
procedures to follow.
Here are some advantages to registering your complaints with a specific
office:
· You have only one person or one office to contact.
· That office will contact the appropriate division and/or person.
· Their staff is experienced in resolving neighborhood problems.
· They know the procedures and in some cases, have personal contacts
within that department.
HELPFUL HINTS FOR FILING COMPLAINTS
1. When reporting a problem, get the name of the person, their job title
and their department.
2. Have your information ready. For example: addresses, cross streets,
times and dates.
3. Most offices are open between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
4. If a township or township contractor’s work crew litter or damage
part of your property,
get the name of the department or company. If a company is
involved, it is helpful if you
get the company’s address. The name is usually painted on
vehicles used by the crew.
5. Know the name, address and telephone number of your landlord. This
can simplify the
inspection process of Building Code violations.
6. Certain problems can be inspected and remedied only during the spring
and summer. Dead
tree removal, street repairs, snow removal and salting
are all seasonal problems.
TOWNSHIP DEPARTMENTS/DUTIES
1. Township Manager
Provides day to day direction and control over all township
activities and provides a
liaison between the board and various township departments.
2. Finance Department
· Collects utility payments
· Collects property taxes
· Issues dog licenses
· Collects special assessments
· Collects monies for water and sewer projects
· Provides an after hours drop box for payments
3. Township Clerk
· Registers voters
· Maintains voter registration file
· Administers business licenses, solicitation, hawkers and peddlers and
transient merchant
programs
· Maintains township records
· Administers local elections
· Edits and distributes township newsletter
· Records minutes for the Township Board of Trustees, Planning Commission
and Zoning
Board of Appeals
4. Community Development Department
· Contains the Building, Assessing, Zoning and Planning Departments
· Contains the Code Enforcement Office
· Issues electrical, plumbing, mechanical and building permits
· Enforces all township codes and ordinances
5. Fire Department
· Maintains two fire stations
· Provides 24 hour fire protection
· Maintains a Fire Prevention Bureau
· Inspects commercial property for fire code compliance
· Issues open burning permits
· Provides education and training programs
· Provides free residential fire inspections upon request
6. Parks and Recreation Department
· Manages and maintains the four township parks
· Offers Picnic in the Park Concerts
· Offers Youth Programs year round
· Offers Adult Programs year round
· Sponsors annual Easter Egg Hunt
· Develops special seasonal activities
7. Department of Public Works
· Contains the Water and Sewer Departments
· Maintains the township parks
· Maintains the township cemetery
· Repairs all water main breaks and leaks on public property
· Responsible for water meter service
· Responsible for water shut-off/turn-on
8. Police Department
· Provides 24 hour police protection and patrol
· Provides education and training programs
· Investigates traffic accidents
· Investigates all major/minor crimes within the township
· Provides crime prevention tips and information
· Provides security/house checks
· Provides free bicycle registration
GENERAL DEPARTMENT SERVICES
ABANDONED OR VACANT BUILDINGS
Community Development Department
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
By ordinance, the Thomas Township Community Development Department is
empowered
to order dangerous buildings made safe or demolished. A dangerous
building is one that is
vacant and open to trespass. If a property owner fails to take required
action, the Township
may then demolish the structure and assess the cost of demolition
against the property owner.
The Community Development Department’s general policy is to encourage
property owners
to either rehabilitate or demolish vacant buildings. All partially
burned buildings must be
barricaded within 24 hours of a fire. In the event of dangerous
conditions (broken windows,
doors or collapsed roofs), buildings must be either repaired or
barricaded immediately.
ABANDONED VEHICLES
A. On Public Property
A vehicle is considered abandoned if it is parked continuously at or in
one spot for 48 hours
or more. If you have a complaint of a car parked for 48 hours or more in
front of your house,
place of business or anywhere else on a public street, call the Police
Department at 781-1300
during business hours. After hours call Saginaw Central Dispatch - at
311 or 797-4580, on
cell at 797-4580.
The police will need the following information about the car:
1. Specific location
2. License plate number, if it has one
3. Year, make, model and color of vehicle
An officer will investigate your complaint and tag the vehicle as
abandoned. After an additional
48 hours the vehicle will be impounded and towed to the nearest storage
lot. Tow and impound
fees will be the responsibility of the vehicle owner.
B. On Private Property Open to the Public
Vehicle/s parked on private property open to the public may be removed
as abandoned by
the property owner at any time. Such removal will be at the expense of
the property owner.
To avoid this expense, it is highly recommended that the Police
Department be called so the
vehicle can be tagged as abandoned under township ordinance and removed
at the vehicle
owner’s expense.
C. On Someone Else’s Property
Community Development Department
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
You may want to report parked cars on private property you do not own.
Examples include:
neighbors who have unlicensed or inoperable cars parked on their front
yard, vacant lots, side
driveways or backyards. When you report such cases, make sure you
provide the correct
address or location. A code enforcement officer will make an inspection
of your complaint.
ANIMAL COMPLAINTS
Animal Shelter
1312 Gratiot Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan 48602
989-797-4500
After hours call Saginaw Central Dispatch - at 311 or 797-4580, cell at
797-4580.
Barking Dogs
To report a barking dog, call 311 or 797-4580, cell at
797-4580 for an officer
to respond. You may also contact the Thomas Township Police directly by
calling 781-1300
or going to the Police Department in person.
Dead Animals
You may report dead animals on public property to the Animal Shelter.
The Shelter will only
pick up domestic animals and small game, excluding skunks.
Dog Bites
Call 9-1-1 or the Animal Shelter at 989-797-4500
Dog Licensing
Animal Shelter or Thomas Township Office
1312 Gratiot Avenue 249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48602 Saginaw, Michigan 48609
989-797-4500 989-781-0150
(Dog Licenses may be purchased from December 1st to February 28th
at the Township Office)
It is unlawful for any person to own, possess or harbor a dog over one
year of age in the
Township or County without having first obtained a license. An applicant
must also have
a valid certificate showing an immunization against rabies has been
obtained. Licenses must
be purchased and/or renewed on or before February 28th of each year.
Cost of a license
is $7.00 for neutered dogs and $25.00 for non-neutered dogs. If you are
a senior citizen
and the dog is neutered, the cost is $5.00. Licenses are also available
by mail.
Loose or Stray Dogs
Thomas Township has a leash law, which requires dog owners to keep their
dog/s on their
property and not allow their dog/s to run loose. The law further
requires all dogs to be
restrained by leash when on public property. A violation of this law
could result in the
issuance of an appearance ticket/s to the owner of the dog.
BUSINESS LICENSES
Thomas Township Office-Clerk
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
A business license obtained from the Township Clerk’s Office is required
in order for a
business to operate within the Township. Anyone wishing to sell
door-to-door within the
Township must also obtain a peddlers license from the Clerk’s Office.
This license must
be carried by the person at all times and displayed upon request.
CEMETERY
Thomas Township Office
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
Owen Cemetery on North River Road, ¾ of a mile north of State Street is
owned and
operated by the Township. Burial and sales information is available at
the Township Office.
CODE VIOLATIONS
Community Development Department
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
A. Residential Building Violations
For those who rent a house or apartment, it is suggested you report any
needed repairs
(structural, plumbing or electrical defects) to your landlord first. If
your landlord refuses
to make the repairs, you may report the defects to the agency listed
above. You may
also report defects in residential buildings in which you do not live.
B. No Water Service or Raw Sewage Outside
If there is no water service in the building or there is raw sewage
outside the building or
in the basement, call the Department of Public Works.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Administration Office
8215 Shields Drive
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4820
989-781-4141
Station One Station Two
355 N. Miller Road 9970 Dice Road
Saginaw Michigan 48609 Freeland Michigan 48623
The Fire Department currently consists of 35 highly dedicated, paid on
call fire fighters
who take great pride in providing fire protection, education and medical
first response
to Thomas Township. In addition, the Fire Department employs a Chief,
Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal, Fire Inspector and an Administrative
Assistant.
A. Public Education
The Fire Department spends many hours throughout the year providing
educational
programs and training to township residents, business owners/employees
and the
schools. This public education consists of the following:
1. School Visits
2. Field Trips to the Fire Station
3. Bike Helmet Safety
4. Water Safety
5. Health Safety
6. How to Properly Use 911
7. Fire Extinguisher Training, both hands on & demonstrations
8. Free Home Fire Inspections
B. Smoke Alarms/Smoke Detectors
1. Smoke Alarms Save Lives.
2. Install smoke alarms/detectors on every level of your home, including
the basement
and garage area.
3. Alarms/detectors may be purchased at many hardware, home supply or
general
merchandise stores.
4. Replace batteries at least twice a year. A good time is during the
change in daylight
savings time, “spring ahead and fall back”.
C. Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide or “CO” is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced
by the
incomplete combustion of fuels. CO detectors can be purchased at many
hardware,
home supply or general merchandise stores. Health symptoms to look for
include:
headache, fatigue and nausea followed by more serious symptoms of
disorientation,
unconsciousness and even death. If experiencing any of these symptoms,
seek fresh
air immediately or go to an emergency room. Once outside the house,
business or
area, you may want to contact 911 to report the situation.
D. Open Burning/Permits
Burning permits are issued by the Thomas Township Fire Department at no
cost and can
be obtained at the Public Safety Administration Office at 8215 Shields
Drive. Permits are
issued during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m. or a
permit may be obtained through the township web site
www.thomastwp.org
go to the fire
department link.
The following are the rules that govern the permits:
1. Burning anything other than brush is prohibited.
2. Burning permits are required for all open burning, excluding cooking
fires within a
barbecue pit.
3. Open burning closer than 300’ from any structure is prohibited.
Recreation fires
must be 50’ from any structure.
4. No burning in windy conditions (10 mph or more)..
5. Open burning of brush shall be permitted only during daylight hours.
6. A garden hose or other approved fire extinguishing equipment shall be
available.
7. All open burning shall be constantly attended by a person of at least
18 years of age.
8. The Fire Chief or his/her designee is authorized to require that open
burning be
discontinued if it constitutes a hazardous condition.
9. Offensive smoke justifies cause to extinguish fire and/or revoke a
permit.
WATCH YOUR SMOKE AND PLEASE BE COURTEOUS TO YOUR NEIGHBORS
REMINDER:
Plan with your family an escape route in case of fire. Also designate a
“Safe Zone” where
family members are to meet to make sure everyone is accounted for.
E. Programs Offered
1. Pancake Breakfast/Open House – Every September, Station 1 offers a
breakfast prepared
and served by Thomas Township fire fighters. During the
breakfast, special events are
presented so residents can see first hand the fire department
and its equipment. These events
include:
a. Jaws of Life Demonstration
b. Water Demonstration
c. Fire Extinguisher Training
d. Blood Pressure Checks
2. Scholarship Program
Three $500.00 scholarships are given annually. The money used
to fund this program is
donated solely by Thomas Township fire fighters. Applications
are available from the
Fire Department and are open to any high school graduate or
G.E.D. equivalent that
resides within Thomas Township. First consideration will be
given to those applicants
entering an “emergency services field”.
3. “Spring Ahead, Fall Back” Pizza Give-Away
Every spring and fall during “Daylight Saving Time” changes,
the Fire Department has
a program to give away free pizza if your smoke detector is
in working order or a free
smoke detector if you do not have a working smoke detector.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES/TRAINING
Emergency medical and rescue services are provided to both residents and
visitors by
the Thomas Township Fire Department. In addition, the Fire Department
provides
vehicle extrication, water rescue, ice rescue, confined space rescue and
high angle rescue.
These services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For
service call Saginaw
Central Dispatch 9-1-1.
The Saginaw County Chapter of the American Red Cross offers training in
emergency first
aid and CPR. This training will help you provide emergency assistance to
someone
experiencing heart and lung difficulties. The Red Cross is located at
1232 N. Michigan
Avenue, Saginaw or they can be reached by calling 989-754-8181.
LIBRARY
Thomas Township Library
8207 Shields Drive
Saginaw, Michigan 48609
989-781-3770
The library offers interlibrary loan and reference services, internet
access, word processing
computers, periodicals, audio and video tapes, music CD’s and a 47,000
plus volume book
collection. The library is user friendly and handicap accessible. The
library is open Monday
through Thursday, from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, from 10
a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday hours are 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., October 1st through April 30th.
PARKS and RECREATION
Thomas Township Parks and Recreation Department
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
A. Parks
Roethke Park: 400 Leddy Road, includes an outdoor swimming pool, 3 sand
volleyball courts,
miniature train, playground equipment, wooded trails, 3 pavilions,
horseshoe pits, youth fishing
pond and canoe rentals.
Roberts Park: 755 Bacon Road, 1 pavilion, 4 softball fields, playground
equipment and 3 sand
volleyball courts.
Community Park: 249 N. Miller Road, 2 ice skating rinks, basketball
court, 2 roller hockey courts
and swings.
Day Park: S. River Road @ Wegner Road, sledding hill and football field.
B. Recreation Programs
The Thomas Township Parks and Recreation Department strives to promote
recreation through
year round sports and activities for all ages. Our senior citizens group
meets monthly throughout
the year for activities, fun get togethers and luncheons. For more
information on programs call
the Parks and Recreation Department.
1. Youth Programs
2. Adult Programs
Boy’s basketball
Women’s volleyball
Girl’s basketball
Men’s volleyball
Floor hockey
Women’s sand volleyball
Soccer clinic
Men’s sand volleyball
Basketball clinic
Coed sand volleyball
Spring soccer
Men’s softball
Girl’s softball
Coed softball
Fall soccer
Girl’s sand volleyball
C. Special Activities
Roethke Day Camp
Easter Egg Hunt
Fantastic Friday Trips
Swimming Lessons
Open Swimming Roethke Rail Train Rides
Discount Ticket Sales Haunted Train Ride
MRPA Hoop Shoot Punt, Pass & Kick
Outdoor Picnic in The Park Senior Citizens
Concerts
SNOW and ICE REMOVAL
Saginaw County Road Commission
3110 Sheridan
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
989-752-6140
Thomas Township roads are plowed and salted by the Saginaw County Road
Commission.
Persons who own, occupy or control any building or lot, vacant or
occupied, are responsible
for snow and ice removal from sidewalks in the front, rear and side of
their building/s and lot.
This removal according to township ordinance must be done within 24
hours after a snowfall.
For more information call the Code Enforcement Office at 989-781-0150.
STREET LIGHTING
Consumers Energy
1-800-477-5050 (general & emergency repairs)
A. To report street lights out: call 1-800-477-5050
B. For repairs: call 1-800-447-5050
Most street lighting repairs are made within one or two days.
When there is extensive damage, repairs may take several days
or even weeks.
STREET REPAIRS and POTHOLES
Saginaw County Road Commission
3110 Sheridan
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
989-752-6140
The Saginaw County Road Commission makes repairs to all Saginaw County
roads.
Street repairs are usually made in the spring and summer. However,
potholes are
repaired throughout the year. Report holes and low areas filled with
water to the Road
Commission as soon as possible.
THOMAS TOWNSHIP SCHOOLS
Thomas Township includes three school districts, K-12, within the
township limits.
They are:
· Swan Valley School District, 989-921-3701, which is located near the
southeast
corner of the community.
· Hemlock School District, 989-642-5282, which is located on the west
end of the
community.
· Freeland School District, 989-695-5527, which is located near the
northeast corner
of the community.
The following is a comprehensive list of phone numbers for the schools
within the
Township limits:
1. Swan Valley School District:
www.swanvalley.k12.mi.us
a. Administration……………989-921-3701
b. Transportation……………989-921-3751
c. Community Ed…………...989-921-2471
d. Havens Elementary……..989-921-4201
e. High School……………...989-921-2401
f. Latchkey………………….989-921-2461
g. Middle School……………989-921-2601
h. Shields Elementary……..989-921-4701
i. Athletic Office……………989-921-2471
2. Hemlock School District:
www.hemlock.k12.mi.us
a. Administration…………...989-642-5282
b. Adult Ed. Director……….989-642-2338
c. Hemlock Elementary……989-642-5221
d. Ling Elementary…………989-642-5235
e. Middle School……………989-642-5253
f. High School……………...989-642-5287
g. Transportation…………...989-642-8338
3. Freeland School District:
www.freeland.k12.mi.us
a. Administration…………...989-695-5527
b. Transportation…………...989-695-5101
c. Elementary School……...989-695-5371
d. Middle School……………989-695-2586
e. High School……………...989-695-2596
f. Learning Center…………989-695-5721
TRAFFIC LIGHTS and SIGNS
Any damage to a traffic control sign or traffic light should be reported
immediately to
Saginaw Central Dispatch – at 311 or 797-4580, cell at 797-4580
TRAFFIC and PARKING VIOLATIONS
70th District Court
111 S. Michigan Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan
989-790-5390
If you have been cited for a traffic or parking violation within Thomas
Township and
wish to contest the violation, you must contact the Traffic Division of
the 70th District
Court at the number above.
TRASH/GARBAGE/YARD WASTE
Thomas Township Office
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
The Township belongs to the Mid-Michigan Waste Authority, which
contracts weekly
pick-up and disposal of yard waste, recyclables and refuse. The
Township’s pick-up
day is scheduled for Friday of each week. If a holiday falls during the
week, pick-up
will then be made on Saturday. (To contact the Waste Authority directly
you may call
989-752-4100)
Reminder: Solid waste, yard waste and recyclables may not be placed at
the curb more
than twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the scheduled pick-up time.
A. Yard Waste
Yard waste is placed at the curb for pick-up, but must be placed in
authorized brown
paper yard waste bags or in containers marked with green and white “yard
waste”
stickers which are available from the Township Office. (Yard waste
pick-up is
April – November.)
B. Brush
The Township maintains a brush drop off site at the northwest corner of
Gleaner and
Frost Roads. Residents may drop off brush only, no stumps, leaves, grass
or commercial
brush. A schedule for hours and dates of operation is available from the
Township Office.
C. Recyclables
The Township encourages residents to participate in the Township
recycling program.
Blue recycling bins are available at the Township Office for $7.00. Bins
are to be put
out at the same time regular trash is put out.
D. Frequently Asked Questions
1. “My yard waste did not get picked-up. What do I do now?”
The Township maintains a resident complaint log for refuse,
recycling and yard waste
problems. The problem is recorded on the log and then faxed
to the Waste Authority
to be taken care of.
2. “I have big item/s to be picked-up. Who do I call?”
Call Waste Authority at 989-752-4100. They will tag the item
first, then come back
and pick it up. You will need to call at least two weeks in
advance.
3. “I have old batteries, hair spray cans, old paint, etc. How do I
dispose of these items?”
Saginaw County Health Department has a hazardous waste
program. For information
call 989-758-3800.
VOTING INFORMATION
Thomas Township Office-Clerk
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 46809-4896
989-781-0150
The Thomas Township Clerk’s Office can give you information on how to
register to vote,
how to vote an absentee ballot, precinct locations, school elections and
elective office
qualifications.
WATER and SEWER
Department of Public Works (DPW)
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-0150
A. Emergency
The Department of Public Works maintains 24-hour emergency service.
B. Water main breaks and leaks.
The Department of Public Works is responsible for the repair and
maintenance of all
broken water mains and water services under public streets. Interior
house plumbing
and the private water service that extends from the owner’s property
line to the house
are the responsibility of the owner and will not be repaired by the DPW.
Report the
location of any broken or leaking public water main immediately.
C. Water Meter Service
If your water meter is leaking or making noises, please report the
condition to the DPW.
The DPW will inspect the meter and, if necessary, replace it at no cost
to the property
owner.
D. Water Shut-Off or Turn-On
Plumbing repairs inside the home can be done by closing valves in the
home’s plumbing
system. If you do not have the necessary valves, you may request water
shut-off or
turn-on at the outside valve box by calling the DPW. Call 781-0150.
E. Sprinkler Meters
Sanitary sewer charges are based on water usage in the residential and
commercial structure.
To avoid being charged sewer charges on outdoor watering, a sprinkler
meter can be installed.
A sprinkler meter monitors the water used outside the home and therefore
no sewer charges
are levied for that water usage. Meters can be purchased by contacting
the Department of
Public Works.
Each resident of the Township, either commercial or residential, is
reminded to please call
“ MISS DIG” at 800-482-7171 at least 3 days before digging or doing any
work on their
property.
ZONING INFORMATION
Community Development Department
249 N. Miller Road
Saginaw, Michigan 48609
989-781-0150
A. Code Enforcement Department
This department is charged with making sure everyone adheres to the
zoning laws enacted
by the Thomas Township Board of Trustees. The most common items dealt
with are fence
regulations, rubbish and trash complaints, grass height restrictions,
recreational vehicle
storage, signs (placement, size and construction), vehicles (abandoned
and inoperable) and
snow removal from sidewalks.
B. Building Department
This department processes all types of permits: electrical, plumbing,
mechanical and building,
including permanent signs and swimming pools.
All driveway permits are issued through the Saginaw County Road
Commission or the
Michigan State Highway Department. All septic and well permits are
issued through the
Saginaw County Health Department. Construction on any parcel of land
located in the
100-year floodplain or wetlands is regulated by the DNR/DEQ.
Saginaw County Road Commission………….…….989-752-6140
Michigan State Highway Department……….…..….989-754-0784
Saginaw County Health Department………….….....989-758-3800
Michigan Department of Natural Resources….....…989-684-9141
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality........989-686-8025
C. General Information
Inspection of all building is required during the building process.
All setbacks for any building permit should be confirmed with the
Building Department
prior to construction. For additional information concerning permits,
applications,
setbacks, footings or general inquiries call the Township Office at
989-781-0150.
GENERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT INFORMATION
Thomas Township Police Department
8215 Shields Drive
Saginaw, Michigan 48609-4896
989-781-1300
POLICE ASSISTANCE
A. Emergencies – Dial 9-1-1
In case of an emergency (harm to person or property), when police
assistance is required
IMMEDIATELY, dial 911, wait for the operator and relate the following
information:
WHERE – the problem is (location).
WHAT – the problem is. Are weapons or vehicles involved? If so,
state the type of weapon and description of the vehicle.
WHO – is involved (number of persons and their
descriptions).
WHEN – the problem occurred or is occurring.
The operator will guide you through the questions. Try to remain calm.
B. Non-Emergencies – Central Dispatch at 311 or 797-4580, cell at
797-4580.
In events where you need police assistance, but do not need it
immediately, call Saginaw
County Central Dispatch.
C. Prisoner Information
If you have reason to believe someone you know is being held by a police
department
in Saginaw County, you may call the Saginaw County Sheriff Department at
989-790-5461 and ask for the jail. You must know the person’s full name.
The police
can only supply information based on the name the person gave when
he/she was placed
under arrest.
BICYCLE REGISTRATION
The Thomas Township Police Department also provides free bicycle
registration. Due to
the ever-present possibility of theft and the high cost to replace a
stolen bike, township
residents are strongly encouraged to register their bikes. To register a
bike, you may
either bring it in or have the make, model, color and serial number
available at the time
of registration. Click
here to print the bike registration form.
CRIME VICTIMS INFORMATION
Under the Michigan Crime Victims Rights Act, an individual who suffers
direct or
threatened physical, financial or emotional harm as the result of a
felony or other
included crime, is entitled to the following:
1. Emergency and medical services, if applicable.
2. You may be eligible for crime victim’s compensation benefits.
To apply, fill out an application available from the Crime
Victims
Compensation Board at P.O. Box 30026, Lansing, MI 48909 or
by calling 517-373-7373.
3. Michigan CRIME VICTIM Notification Network, 1-800-770-7657
is a free, confidential 24-hour telephone service that allows
you to check on the custody
status of inmates in the county jails and to register for
automated notification when an
inmate is released, transferred, is scheduled for advanced
release, work release or dies.
This program is designed to provide you with quick and easy
access to information and
assist you in preparing for an offender’s release. If you
feel you may be at risk, take
precautions as if the offender has already been released.
4. If within six (6) months, you are not notified of an arrest in your
case, you may call the Thomas Township Police Department for
the status of the case.
For additional information about your rights, you may call the Saginaw
County Prosecuting
Attorneys Office at 989-790-5530 or contact them at 111 S. Michigan,
Saginaw,
Michigan, 48602.
CURFEW
The Thomas Township Police Department supports and enforces the Saginaw
Countywide Curfew Ordinance. The ordinance states that no minor under
the
age of 17 years shall loiter, idle, wander, stroll or play in or upon
the public streets,
highways, roads, alleys, parks, public buildings, places of amusement
and entertainment,
vacant lots or other unsupervised places between the hours of 10 p.m.
and 7 a.m.
Exceptions to this ordinance shall apply to:
a. A minor accompanied by his or her parent, legal guardian or other
adult person having
the care or custody of the minor, or
b. A minor upon an emergency errand or legitimate business, such as
school or religious
activities, directed by his or her parent, legal guardian or
other adult person having
the care or custody of the minor.
DRUG PROBLEMS
A. Illegal Sale of Drugs and Drug Houses
To report the sale of drugs or to report a location where you suspect
illegal drug activity
is taking place, you may contact the Thomas Township Police Department
at
989-781-1300. You may also report the activity to the Bay Area Narcotics
Enforcement
Team (BAYANET) at 989-790-6581.
It is especially helpful to report specific information, such as vehicle
license plate number,
names or nicknames, physical descriptions, time of operation and any
other information
you may obtain. You do not have to tell the police your name if you do
not wish to do so.
B. Drug and Alcohol Addiction
For information on drug abuse and referrals to help users or their
families, call the toll-free,
24-hour national hotline at 1-800-COCAINE or Dot Caring Centers at
989-790-3366.
VACATION/SECURITY HOUSE CHECKS
The Thomas Township Police Department provides a house watch program to
periodically
check homes in the owner/occupant’s absence. To participate in this
program, owner/
occupants must be away five days or more. Residents are requested
to either call
or stop by the Police Department. Click
here
for a printable house check form.
HOUSE NUMBERING
The Thomas Township Police Department supports and enforces the Saginaw
County House
Numbering Ordinance. The ordinance states that all homes and businesses
shall:
· Display numbers in numerals no less than three (3) inches tall and
visible from the street.
· If the structure is 90 feet or more from the roadway, the number must
appear on a sign
within 10 feet of the driveway and no more than 20 feet from the road.
· Numbers cannot go on grouped mailboxes. The display must indicate
which number
goes with which house.
· Saginaw County sheriff’s deputies and Thomas Township police officers
may issue
civil infractions citations, starting with a warning letter and
escalating to a $200 fine plus
costs for the fourth and following violations.
· Violations are to be corrected within 30 days after receiving a
notice.
HOUSE PARTIES
Thomas Township has an ordinance which prohibits open house parties at
which any
alcoholic beverages or drugs are possessed or consumed by any minor
where the adult
homeowner knew or should have known or should have taken reasonable
steps to
prevent the possession or consumption of the alcoholic beverage or drug
at said residence.
Copies of this ordinance are available at the Thomas Township Office or
the Thomas
Township Police Department. It may also be viewed on the ordinance page
of this web site.
HUNTING CLOSURE
Thomas Township has a hunting closure ordinance that makes it unlawful
to hunt with or
discharge a center fire rifle within the Township limits. The only
exception to this ordinance
is Saginaw Field and Stream.
The Township has also established “Safety Zones” which are defined as
all the area within
four hundred fifty feet (450’) of an occupied dwelling, house, cabin,
residence or any barn
or other building used in a farm operation. No person may hunt or
discharge a firearm
within a safety zone or shoot any wild animal or wild bird while the
animal or bird is within
a safety zone, without permission of the owner or occupant of such
safety zone. This shall
apply to all hunters, including archery hunters within Thomas Township.
NOISE ABATEMENT
Thomas Township has a noise ordinance that makes it unlawful to operate
noise producing
instruments, sound amplifying equipment and devices such as radios,
phonographs or stereo
equipment during the nighttime, which is 10 p.m. - 7 a.m., and in such a
manner as to disturb
the peace of a neighborhood. It is also unlawful to operate an
excessively noisy motor vehicle
or motorcycle.
If you wish to file a complaint, call Saginaw Central Dispatch for a
police response or you may
go to the Police Department to file a complaint in person. Violators
will be prosecuted if you
are willing to sign the complaint and appear in court.
Copies of this ordinance are available at the Thomas Township Office or
the Thomas Township
Police Department. It may also be viewed on the ordinance page of this
web site.
UNAUTHORIZED DISPLAY OF VEHICLES FOR SALE
Thomas Township has an ordinance that prohibits the display of vehicles
for sale on either
public or private property not zoned for this purpose. Vehicle/s found
in violation of this
ordinance will be tagged and if not removed within 48 hours will be
removed as abandoned.
Copies of this ordinance are available at the Thomas Township Office or
the Thomas
Township Police Department. It may also be viewed on the ordinance page
of this web site.
SEAT BELT INFORMATION
Safety Belt/Child/Infant Safety Seats
Michigan vehicle crashes are a leading source of injury and death to
individuals of all ages.
Michigan safety belt law requires all children under the age of 4 be
properly restrained in a
safety seat; makes seat belt use mandatory for all drivers and front
seat passengers; and
requires children ages 4 to 16 be properly buckled in either the front
or rear seat. Persons
16 and older are required to use a seatbelt in the front seat. A safety
belt is recommended
but not required in the rear seat.
An infant (up to one year of age) should travel in a federally approved
infant safety seat that
must always face the rear of the car. Facing rearward protects the
infant’s fragile head and
neck. Never use a rear-facing infant seat in a vehicle front seat
equipped with a passenger
side air bag. In this case, the child safety seat should be placed in
the back seat. If possible,
the safety seat should be placed in the middle of the back seat for
maximum safety. One of
the major exceptions to this rule however, is in the case of pickup
trucks that only have a front
seat. In this instance, the infant safety seat should be placed so it is
facing forward.
Convertible seats are for children up to the age of 4 years old. This
seat is used facing the rear
while the baby is under one year old. It may then be turned around to
face the front when the
baby is about one year old.
New Booster Seat Legislation – Effective July 1, 2008
Requires the use of approved booster seats for children who are between
the ages of four
and eight and less than 4 feet 9 inches tall.
INFORMATION FROM THE THOMAS TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Thomas Township Police Department, along with the Fire Department
administration,
is located in the Public Safety Administration Office at 8215 Shields
Drive. It is located
west of the intersection of N. Miller and Shields Drive. The Police
Department provides
twenty-four hour a day, seven day a week police service. The Department
currently consists
of the Chief, Sergeant, five Police Officers and an Administrative
Secretary. The
administrative office for both police and fire is open daily 8:00 a.m.
until 5:00 p.m., excluding
weekends and holidays.
The Police Department is a full service department that provides
twenty-four hour police
coverage. All officers of the department are certified as police
officers through the Michigan
Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (mcoles) and are trained to handle almost
any situation
that may arise, from the simplest calls for police service to major
felony investigations in progress.
The Public Safety Administration Office building also houses a
substation for the Michigan State
Police. One (1) trooper is assigned from the Bridgeport Post and provide
service primarily to
the west side of the county. To speak with a trooper, you may call the
Thomas Township
Police Department at 989-781-1300 or the Bridgeport State Police Post at
989-777-3700.
To speak to somebody from the Thomas Township Police Department, you may
call
781-1300.
IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY, CALL 9-1-1.
If you have a non-emergency, but would like an officer to respond to
your location,
call Central dispatch at 311 or 797-4580, cell at 797-4580.
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS FROM THOMAS TOWNSHIP POLICE
DEPARTMENT
IDENTITY THEFT/FRAUD
· Keep disclosure of key identity information at a minimum.
· Minimize the amount of personal information a thief can steal.
· Do not carry extra credit cards, a Social Security card, birth
certificate or
your passport.
· Cancel all unused credit cards. Their account numbers are still
available in
your credit report.
· Keep a list of all credit card numbers and expiration dates so you can
contact
creditors quickly.
· Never give a card number or other information over the phone.
· Take ATM, credit card and other receipts with you and either save them
in a
safe place or destroy them.
· Shred or tear up pre-approved credit card offers you do not accept.
· Do not keep your pin number in your wallet.
· Do not print your Social Security number on your checks or give it out
unless
absolutely necessary. Social Security numbers are the prime targets of
criminals.
· If you feel you have become the victim of identity theft, act
immediately. Report
the crime to police, credit card issuers and your bank.
Credit Reporting Agencies:
Equifax – 800-525-6285 or online at
www.equifax.com
Experian – 800-682-7654 or online at
www.experian.com
Trans Union – 800-680-7289 or online at
www.transunion.com
In order to track identity theft, a report should also be filed with the
United States
Consumer Affairs Department at
www.consumer.gov/idtheft/
It is further recommended that you check your credit report at least
once a year.
This can be done online at
FreeCreditReportService.com or by calling one
of the
credit reporting agencies listed above.
PERSONAL SAFETY
· Never let strangers into your home.
· Do not give out personal information over the phone.
· Look inside your vehicle before getting into it.
· Do not go home if being followed. Drive to a police station or
well-populated
area and ask for help.
· Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
· Never put your purse or wallet on the counter or leave it in a
shopping cart while
examining merchandise.
· Always put your purse over your shoulder. Never hold it just by the
strap.
· Do not be conned. If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.
Never send
money for a chance to win something or obtain merchandise you did not
order.
PROPERTY PROTECTION
· Entry doors should have deadbolt locks with at least a 1” throw.
· Basement windows should be permanently secured unless used as an
emergency exit.
· Garage doors should always be closed and locked.
· Keep shrubbery trimmed away from windows and doors. These allow for
concealment
of intruders.
· Record serial numbers for items in your home and garage when possible
in case of theft.
It is a good idea to make a video recording or take photographs of all
items of value.
· Marking stereos, televisions, etc. with your drivers license number
helps identify property
if it is stolen.
· Make sure you take the car keys with you when you exit your car.
· Never leave valuables in your car in plain view. If you must leave
items in your car, lock
them in the trunk.
· Do not leave your vehicle running with keys in the ignition when you
are away from the
vehicle.
· Keep bikes locked when not using them.
· Make sure bikes are registered (the Police Department issues bike
licenses).
***Engravers are available at the Police Department for resident’s
use.***
DRIVING SAFETY
· Always wear your seatbelt.
· Do not clutter up your windows or viewing area with signs, ornaments
or other hanging
items.
· Make sure windows, headlights and taillights are clear of snow and/or
frost before driving.
· Allow extra driving time during poor weather conditions. Always drive
in a manner that
allows you to stop your car safely.
· Do not get involved in roadway confrontations where another driver’s
“Road Rage” may
draw you into a dangerous situation.
· If another driver becomes angry with you, try to ignore him/her and do
not make eye
contact with the person.
VACATION SECURITY PRACTICES
· Make your home look as normal as possible.
· Keep shades in daytime position (this allows police to see in).
· Put lights, both interior and exterior, on timers when possible.
· Have your mail and newspapers picked up.
· Keep grass cut/driveway shoveled.
· Put your home on the police vacation house checklist. Click
here for a
printable
house check form.
· Unplug all unnecessary electrical items.
· Turn down volume on telephone and answering machine.
BICYCLE SAFETY TIPS FOR KIDS
· Always wear a properly fitting helmet.
· Stop and look in all directions for traffic.
· Obey traffic signs and signals.
· Ride on the right-hand side of the street (with traffic).
· Wear light or bright colored clothing.
· Avoid loose-fitting pants.
· Do not ride at night.
WALKING SAFETY TIPS
· Always walk on sidewalks when available or on the left-hand side of
the road
(facing traffic).
· Wear bright or light colored clothing.
· At night wear clothing with reflective stripes or patches.
· Always carry some form of identification in case of accident or
emergency.
· Always walk or jog in pairs at night or after dark.
· Follow all traffic signals and safety rules. They are there for your
protection.
· When walking or jogging with radio headphones, always be aware of your
surroundings.