COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch County Treasurer Steve Rutz told Branch County Commissioners on Tuesday he plans to scan almost 1,200 tax books that date back to 1871.
He brought the actual books to the meeting and said he wanted to preserve the county’s history.
Rutz made reference to the fire which destroyed the old Branch County Courthouse in 1972.
Rutz said this was something he has wanted to do since taking office.
The money to pay for this service will be taken out of the delinquent tax funds.
Rutz said they expect to come under the $50,000 that has been budgeted for the project.
Just a suggestion. Why not start a historical fund raising project campaign and present it to the citizens of Branch County. Expressing the importance of scanning these records for historical purposes before you write a blank check for it. I am sure the $ 50,000. can be better used elsewhere.