Elected Fiscal Officer
The Finance Department operates under the direction of a part-time fiscal officer, who is elected by residents to a four-year term. Day-to-day operations are overseen by a full-time finance director.
Voter Approval
Most Township funding is derived from property tax, with the large majority of property tax mills voted on by taxpayers. Local voters have directly approved about 80% of Washington Township's property tax revenue. The Township does not have an income tax. Click here to learn more about property tax in Washington Township.
Accountability
The State Auditor's Office has issued unqualified opinions to Washington Township for many years, meaning that no material problems have been found in the Township's financial statements. Audits are required every two years; however, to maintain the highest accountability to taxpayers, our fiscal officer requests they be completed annually.
Financial Forecasting
Washington Township forecasts and budgets five years in advance. The resulting Financial Plan maintains a positive balance overall and a 25% balance in all major funds for the next five years. Click here to view current and historical budgets and financial plans.
Controlling Costs
Fiscal restraint is practiced by budgeting conservatively, maintaining a lean organization, and pursuing cost efficiencies. The Township also seeks grants, which can help ease the tax burden for residents and improve services more quickly than otherwise would be possible.