By David Fleet
Editor
Population growth in Atlas Township and Goodrich outpaced increases in Ortonville, Brandon and Groveland townships according to new census estimates released on June 30.
The census bureau and Federal State Cooperative Program for population estimates use statistical models that combine the census and administrative records for current population estimates consistent with the last census count.
The population estimates reflected growth for most area communities.
Goodrich Village Administrator Jakki Sidge says the 8 percent population increase may require a mid-decade census, which could be spell more state-shared revenue for the village.
‘I’ll do the preliminary research to see if a census is cost effective,? said Sidge. ‘The council will decide if it’s necessary due to the extensive cost of the project. It’s worth looking into.?
Jeff Dawley, president and broker of Atlas Real Estate, 8491 State Road, Goodrich, is not surprised with the population growth in the southern Genesee County area.
‘Sales have been solid for many years, we have good schools, low crime and a high quality of life offered here,? said Dawley. ‘It’s smaller, yet accessible to shopping and the Oakland County job market. There’s an illusion that taxes are a lot less in Genesee County over Oakland (County). It’s all perception, the difference in taxes minor.?
Dawley, a real estate broker for more than 15 years added that the availability of a municipal sewer also makes the Atlas Township area very attractive to home buyers.
‘The commercial property really needs the sewers,? said Dawley.
Population increases in both Brandon and Groveland townships were not as extensive as in Atlas Township and Goodrich areas.
‘Our growth rate is staying on track,? says Ron Lapp, Brandon Township supervisor. ‘We choose to have controlled growth, that’s why we have a master plan.?
Lapp said that it’s important growth does not have an adverse impact on neighboring townships or school districts.
‘Other communities like Oxford are now choosing to be more urban.?