Hartland hires Valbridge for $23,600 appraisal in Ramco tax‑tribunal dispute; board to amend budget

The Hartland Township Board voted on June 2 to engage Valbridge Property Advisors to prepare a 2025/2026 appraisal to support the township's valuation in Tax Tribunal Docket 25‑000900‑TT (Ramco Properties vs. Hartland Township).

Assessor Amanda Carrigan told trustees that Ramco filed a full tax tribunal appeal in 2025 for six parcels around the Meijer site. The township's valuation for those parcels is approximately $2.4 million for roughly 40 acres; Carrigan said nearby sales support the township's position. She said Valbridge provided an estimate of roughly $20,000 for the appraisal work, with additional fees for appraiser deposition or trial attendance, bringing the total estimated cost to $23,600. The appraisal is due to the tribunal in August and typically takes about six weeks to complete.

Carrigan said the assessor's office has $10,000 budgeted for the appraisal and recommended a budget amendment for the remaining $13,600. Treasurer Horning moved to approve the Valbridge engagement and the recommended funding approach; Trustee O'Connell seconded. The board approved the engagement by roll call vote 7–0.

The appraisal will be submitted to the Tax Tribunal as part of the township's valuation disclosure; further proceedings in the tribunal will follow the tribunal's schedule.