Refusing SAFER grant could land Mich. mayor in jail

TAYLOR, Mich. — A Michigan city mayor's refusal of an $8.1 million SAFER grant to recall 32 laidoff firefighters could put him in jail.

Taylor Mayor, Jeffrey Lamarand is not in favor of the grant because he calculates that it would put the city in a $600,000 deficit as it does not factor in overtime, worker's comp, or unemployment.

According to a report from 7 Action News, a majority of the city council was not happy with Lamarand's decision and is urging him to accept the grant.

"Council…basically ordered me to accept the $8.1 million grant. So they are trying to push the envelope in me accepting all of it without any real justification or the expense or a look at the long term impact," Lamarand said.

His deadline to comply with the grant was Tuesday. He told the news station that because of his decision, he is being held in contempt and is due in court Friday and could receive jail time.

Taylor Fire Chief Bob Tompos said he understands where the mayor is coming from and that Lamarand is "the fiduciary for the city. So he has some strong concerns for some of the costs that may not be covered in the grant."

Lamarand, in lieu of the SAFER grant, has asked FEMA for a $3.7 million grant that would be bring back 14 laid off firefighters.