"...it has not been proven that there are indeed notable cost savings (from government consolidation)...."
                                           - Published statement from a citizen group opposing consolidation in Douglas and
                                             Saugatuck; repeated by the same group at the Boundary Commission hearing.

Fact:   The only voluntary municipal-government consolidation ever in Michigan took place when the cities of Iron River and Stambaugh, and the Village of Mineral Hills combined to form one jurisdiction, The City of Iron River.  Here's what Iron River recently had to say about their cost-savings: "... it is estimated that the 'new' City of Iron River is experiencing an average saving of $1,350,000 annually."  Where'd the savings come from?  Quoting the Iron River website: (Listed first)"Combined all city offices thereby eliminating duplication including council members, managers, clerks, treasurers, office support staff, assessor, and legal counsel." Details here.