Rochester Hills Becomes Model Community for Shared Services

Rochester Hills, Michigan – As Governor Rick Snyder looks to local municipalities to consolidate and share services, the City of Rochester Hills announces its latest partnership by agreeing to share employees with Shelby Township.

The focus on efficiencies and cost reduction has left no industry or business untouched.

“The landscape of local governments is changing and evolving, our city council and this administration has been progressive in finding innovative solutions,” states Mayor Bryan K. Barnett.

After Rochester Hills initiated discussions between the two communities, the Shelby Township and Rochester Hills City Council unanimously supported the agreement. 

“Shared services can help municipalities increase effectiveness and efficiency in their operation. As responsibilities become increasingly complex and demanding, cities must explore shared services as a way to reduce or avoid costs and to improve service delivery,” states Councilmen Marty Brennan.

The agreement allows either community to request personnel assistance from one another on an “as needed basis,” at no cost. The approved agreement between both cities is currently limited to building department services; however this creates additional opportunities for future consideration.

“We have extended this proposal to more than five surrounding communities and several have indicated an interest in pursuing discussions,” states Scott Cope, Building Director. “It makes good business sense to find ways for us to work together and utilize each other’s resources and adapt better to fluctuating workloads.”    

The City of Rochester Hills is currently engaged in a significant number of shared service agreements that not only include the areas of police, fire and dispatch services, but also with the Older Person’s Commission (OPC), Rochester Hills Public Library, and most recently with the Clinton River Watershed Council (CRWC). 

Rochester Hills has demonstrated considerable proactive efforts associated with establishing collaborative arrangements with other communities and partners. The administration continues to identify and research other ideas for future arrangements, understanding the benefits that could be achieved from additional joint partnerships.

Established in 1984, the City of Rochester Hills is a prosperous community offering residents and businesses superior services. Voted one of the top places to live by several sources including CNN Money magazine and RelocateAmerica.com, Rochester Hills is committed to sustaining its position among the nation’s preeminent places to live, work and raise a family. Through the city’s focus on health, education and technology, the community continues to attract forward-thinking leaders and businesses.