Torch Lake Township Treasurer

Sharon Schultz
Post Office Box 663
Eastport, MI 49627
Phone: (231) 599-2036
Fax: (231) 599-2981
Email: treasurer@torchlaketownship.org
Office hours: Monday – Friday flexible hours or by appointment

Deputy Treasurer: Deborah Obrecht
Email: deputytreasurer@torchlaketownship.org

Responsibilities:

Upon receipt of the tax roll, the treasurer shall proceed to collect taxes, account for, and deliver them to the county treasurer and other tax assessing entities. There are two types of taxes the treasurer is charged with collecting: real and personal property taxes. The tax amount is based on the taxable value of the property and the millage assessed by the entity.

By state statute, the treasurer is required to receive and take charge of all funds belonging to the township or which are required by law to be paid into the township treasury, and to pay over and account for the funds according to law or township board decision.

It is very important that the township treasurer diligently maintain accurate records of all income, receipts, and disbursements. The treasurer should maintain a uniform system of accounting as promulgated by the State Treasurer and should keep an accurate accounting for each township fund so that he/she can accurately report on the status of those funds.

The treasurer shall invest public funds as directed by the township board in lawful investments as authorized by state statute and township investment policy. All funds are invested in accordance with the objectives as set forth in the following order of importance:

1) Safety of capital
2) Liquidity
3) Return on investment

The Treasurer submits monthly financial reports to the township board members for their review and approval and these reports are available to the public.

This description was excerpted from Authorities & Responsibilities of Michigan Township Officials, Boards and Commissions published by the Michigan Townships Association, copyright 1995.

Statutory duties:

- Collects both real and personal property taxes
- Keeps an account of township receipts and expenditures
- Maintains a uniform accounting system
- Disburses township checks
- Disburses township tax account checks
- Deposits township revenues in approved depositories
- Invests township funds in approved investment vehicles
- Collects delinquent personal property taxes
- Prepares financial records for audits
- Issues dog licenses
- Appoints a deputy
- Posts a surety bond

Notice of summer tax deferment availability:
Under MCL 211.51, property taxpayers may defer summer taxes without penalty or interest until the end of February’s collections, and before they are turned over to the County Treasurer as delinquent. Applicants qualify by meeting deferment requirements.  Download the application.